Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick, who previously hosted a podcast with LeBron James, expressed his views on the decline in NBA television ratings in a pregame media session before a game against the Sacramento Kings. Redick attributed the drop in ratings to the negative discourse about the game among “national partners” and the shift towards streaming services. He believes that the lack of storytelling and celebration of the game has contributed to the decline in viewership over the last decade.
Redick praised the talent and skill level of the current NBA compared to when he was playing, emphasizing the parity and competition in the league. He criticized the focus on criticism rather than appreciation for the game and highlighted the need for a more positive narrative in discussing basketball. Redick pointed out that the league’s partners should focus on celebrating the game and its players, rather than constantly criticizing it.
The former NBA player called for a change in the way the game is portrayed and discussed in the media, urging for a more positive outlook on the sport. Redick’s comments come at a time when NBA ratings have been on the decline, and he believes that a change in the narrative surrounding basketball could help improve viewership numbers.
Source
Photo credit www.nytimes.com