Every year, basketball fans eagerly await the commencement of the NBA season. It typically starts in October, but this hasn't always been the case. Historically speaking, the league has experimented with various start dates. For instance, the 1946-47 season kicked off in November. Fast forward to the modern era, and October is now the norm. The shift from November to October came in the mid-1980s, allowing the league to avoid competition with other sports for TV ratings during the crucial early months of the season.
The 2020 NBA season was extraordinary due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The league initially planned to start in October, but due to health protocols and the bubble experiment in Orlando, it eventually started in December. This delay was necessary to ensure player safety and manage close to zero COVID-19 cases within the bubble. Before 2020, lockouts also influenced start dates. The 1998-99 season started in February because of a player’s strike that lasted 204 days, drastically shortening the season to just 50 games.
Revenue plays a significant role in determining the NBA schedule. The league generates billions of dollars each season. For example, the 2018-19 NBA season earned approximately $8.76 billion in revenue. TV contracts significantly contribute to these revenues, underscoring the importance of strategic start dates. By mid-October, the competition for broadcast space is less fierce compared to late November when the NFL is in full swing.
The NBA's decision-making process regarding start dates isn't just about money and viewership; it's also about the players. When does the season start? It hinges on negotiations between the league and the Players' Association. For instance, the 2011 lockout resulted in the season commencing on December 25th, Christmas Day. The lockout was settled in November, giving players little over a month to prepare for the season. This period was marked by concerns over player conditioning and injury rates.
Traditionally, marquee games, such as the annual Christmas Day matches, garner substantial viewership. The 2016 Christmas Day game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors drew an average of 10.1 million viewers, indicating the significance of timing and scheduling. Such high-profile games are strategically placed not just for fan enjoyment but also for maximizing TV ratings and advertising revenue.
The league also has to consider international markets. With the NBA's growing popularity worldwide, games are broadcast in over 200 countries. This globalization influences scheduling decisions as the league aims to cater to a diverse audience. In 2019, for example, the league staged a preseason game in China between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Brooklyn Nets, highlighting the NBA's emphasis on capturing a global fanbase.
Another essential aspect is the All-Star break. Mid-season, typically around February, the All-Star game serves as a crucial part of the NBA's schedule. It's not just about the game itself but the entire weekend, including events like the Slam Dunk Contest and the Three-Point Contest. The All-Star weekend generates significant revenue for the hosting city, with an estimated economic impact of around $100 million.
Ticket sales also influence the start of the season. For the 2019-20 season, the average ticket price was around $89. However, prices vary based on the team, location, and opponent. High-demand games, such as opening night or games featuring superstar matchups, typically see a spike in ticket prices and sales. The start of the season often brings in a fresh wave of enthusiasm and high attendance rates, essential for teams' financial health.
One can't ignore the role of television contracts in determining the NBA start dates. The league's lucrative deals with networks like ESPN and TNT are pivotal. In 2014, the NBA signed a nine-year TV deal worth $24 billion with these networks, emphasizing the need for strategic scheduling. Early-season games, especially the opening week, often feature highly anticipated matchups to maximize viewership numbers.
When discussing trends, we can't overlook the impact of digital platforms. The advent of streaming services has changed the way fans consume NBA content. Platforms like NBA League Pass allow fans to watch games live or on-demand. This digital shift has prompted the league to consider start times that cater to viewers in different time zones, ensuring global fans can tune in without sacrificing sleep.
Preseason games, usually starting in early October, give teams a chance to fine-tune their strategies, and integrate new players. The preseason is crucial for rookies and players returning from injuries. For example, in the 2018 preseason, LeBron James made his much-anticipated debut with the Los Angeles Lakers, drawing immense media attention and fanfare.
Interestingly, the NBA has also started experimenting with shorter preseason periods. In 2017, the league shortened the preseason to reduce player fatigue and injuries. This decision was based on data showing that players who participated in fewer preseason games were less likely to suffer from early-season injuries.
Another factor to consider is the regular season's length. Traditionally, the NBA plays an 82-game regular season. However, during the 2019-20 season, the COVID-19 pandemic shortened the schedule to 72 games. The compressed schedule aimed to balance player health and revenue considerations while still delivering an engaging product to fans.
Overall, the NBA's start dates, influenced by a myriad of factors, demonstrate the league's adaptability and strategic planning. From revenue considerations to player welfare and international markets, each element plays a crucial role in shaping the season. The excitement of each new season, heralded by the iconic tip-off in October, keeps fans coming back year after year, illustrating the enduring allure of professional basketball. For more about this season's opener, nba start.