Los Angeles, California – The NBA has reported a surge in attendance for regular-season games this year, breaking records in total and average attendance, percentage of capacity sold, and sellouts. This marks the second consecutive year of record-setting numbers in these categories, with the league drawing in approximately 304,000 more fans this season than the previous year, totaling 22,538,518 attendees and an average of 18,324 per game.
Of the 873 sellouts across the league, 12 teams managed to sell out all of their home games, including the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, and Utah Jazz. The NBA clarified some attendance figures and sellout information following the initial publication of the data.
Additionally, the league released data on social and digital media viewership, revealing that LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Victor Wembanyama, and Luka Dončić were the most viewed players across these platforms, collectively surpassing one billion views. Notably, a steal by Dončić leading to an alley-oop dunk by Derrick Jones Jr. was the most-watched play of the season, garnering 250 million views since it occurred on March 21 against the Utah Jazz.
The NBA’s success in attracting fans to games and engaging audiences through digital platforms underscores the league’s continued popularity and relevance in the sports landscape. With stars like James, Curry, Wembanyama, and Dončić capturing the attention of viewers worldwide, the NBA’s appeal extends far beyond the confines of the arena. As the league continues to innovate and adapt to changing consumption patterns, its ability to connect with fans both in person and online remains a key driver of its success.