Life as an NBA fan is more exciting than ever. According to the latest data, more than two-thirds of NBA followers believe the league is better now than it was a decade ago, and positive impressions among U.S. adults have doubled year-on-year in 2023.
It’s no surprise then that 65% of NBA followers are “avid” fans eager to dive deeper into the league. As we gear up for the new season, Sportradar equips content creators with the tools needed to navigate five key trends and deliver captivating storytelling that keeps fans hooked from start to finish.
In today’s media landscape, sports fans carve out an average of 1.5 hours per week to read sports articles online or in print. While older fans typically appreciate this coverage, younger fans (18 to 24-year-olds) not only read sports content but spend significantly more time doing so than the average fan. Though fewer in number, these younger enthusiasts are voracious consumers of sports content.
It’s crucial to offer unique, engaging perspectives. Our Insights blend playing data with artificial intelligence to craft fact-based statements that enhance editorial narratives and spark readers’ imaginations.
For example, how remarkable is Luka Doncic at stealing the ball? Insights reveal that while Doncic surpassed Jason Kidd’s tally of 40 to lead the Mavericks’ all-time single-season Playoff steals list this year, he still trails Dirk Nowitzki by 65 steals in the franchise’s all-time Playoff standings.
From MVP Nikola Jokic to emerging talents like Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama, the NBA boasts a roster of superstars. Fans are captivated by these heroes; 38% of male and 30% of female followers are drawn primarily by the players, not the teams. But with so much written about legends like LeBron James, how can you keep the stories fresh?
Enter our radar360 platform, offering hundreds of data fields on on-court achievements, ensuring there’s always another story to tell. radar360 covers player and team metrics, trend data, and contextual information on clutch performances, all synchronized with video footage.
For instance, radar360 reveals that James registered a field goal percentage of 54% in 2023-24—the fifth-highest of his career and his best for the Lakers. Interestingly, James is more selective, with only 17.9 field goal attempts per game. Only twice in his 21-season career has he averaged fewer attempts during the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons with the Heat.
Sports betting is booming in the U.S., with nearly $119 billion wagered in 2023, marking a 25% year-on-year increase. NBA fans are particularly engaged, with 30% placing bets—more than fans of soccer, football, or baseball.
Integrating betting-related content into articles can boost engagement and revenue through affiliate programs. Our Betting Insights provide informed perspectives on team and player performances and potential outcomes.
For example, an Insight might reveal that Jayson Tatum has failed to exceed 26.5 points in four of his last six home games as a favorite despite averaging 24.2 points per game. Pair this with an over-under odds offer from a bookmaker to enhance your content’s appeal.
Combine this with Sportradar’s Odds Comparison and ad:s marketing toolkit to provide readers with vital statistics, engaging stories, and actionable betting advice.
Whether for betting decisions, fantasy basketball, or sheer enjoyment, the demand for up-to-date NBA data is undeniable. As the NBA’s official data distributor, Sportradar drives fan engagement and commercial growth.
Our radar360 and Sports Data API feeds offer fresh perspectives on performances and matchups, empowering fans to support their opinions with facts.
For instance, our comprehensive player-tracking data showed that Derrick Jones Jr. spent more on-ball defensive time (54%) matched up against an opponent’s scoring ball handler than any other player in the 2023-24 regular season, surpassing Lu Dort’s 50%.
Four out of five online readers scan an article for key elements before fully engaging. Capturing NBA fans’ attention requires an upfront presentation of engaging statistics and insights.
Our Widgets deliver the latest official data through Sportradar’s partnership with the NBA, giving readers the detailed information they crave.
Maximize your impact using an ‘F’ shape article layout, where readers typically scan the headline, first line, and left side of the page. Position a widget showcasing a team or player’s compelling head-to-head record on the left side while highlighting a unique data point from radar360 at the top to invite more profound engagement.
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To learn how we can elevate your NBA coverage this upcoming season, contact us today.
