The state of Colorado may be missing out on the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets, but the rest of America is certainly enjoying the show. Despite being the reigning champions, most of the state is unable to watch the Nuggets due to a dispute between Altitude Sports Network and Comcast, the largest cable television service provider in Colorado. However, NBA analyst Ethan Strauss recently delved into some viewership data and found that the Nuggets are still making a splash on a national level.
According to Strauss, the Nuggets are the only team to record four games with two million or more viewers on ESPN and TNT, the two major networks that televise NBA games. This is significant considering that the NBA averaged 1.59 million viewers per national televised game last season. The 2023 NBA playoffs were the highest rated in five years, with the NBA Finals drawing an average of 11.64 million viewers.
Despite the lack of access for Colorado residents, the Nuggets have become one of the most popular teams in the NBA. This popularity can be attributed to the exciting style of play that they bring to the court, with players like Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The team’s success on the court has also played a role in their rising popularity, with Jokić winning consecutive MVP awards and leading the team to a championship in 2023.
Market size does not always dictate interest, as evidenced by the Nuggets’ growing fan base outside of Colorado. While big market teams like the Lakers, Cowboys, and Yankees will always have a strong following, smaller market teams can also capture the hearts of fans with their exciting play and winning ways. The Nuggets may not have as many nationally televised games as some of their counterparts, but they have still managed to capture the attention of viewers across the country.
As the 2023 playoffs approach, the Nuggets will once again have the opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage. With a defending championship title to their name, the team is sure to draw in even more viewers and solidify their place as one of the most entertaining teams in the NBA. While Colorado fans may still be missing out on watching their team play, the rest of the country is eagerly anticipating another thrilling postseason run from the Denver Nuggets.
