NBL’s rapid rise continues

Saturday, November 9, 2024

The Hungry Jack’s NBL25 season is currently experiencing an increase of 34% on average audience on ESPN.

The NBL is riding a wave of huge momentum, continuing its incredible rise on the back of a significant uplift in growth metrics across the board last season.

The Hungry Jack’s NBL25 season is currently experiencing an increase of 34% on average audience on ESPN compared to the average audience for the whole of last season. The jump comes after a 26% increase in broadcast audience on ESPN last season.

“It has been a sensational start to the season, and we couldn’t be happier with the growth trajectory and position of the League, especially the performance on our primary broadcast partner ESPN,” NBL CEO David Stevenson said.

“The NBL is still the fastest growing sporting league in Australia and that has been underlined by yet another jump in ratings, as more fans engage with world-class basketball week after week.

“I want to give a massive thanks to all our clubs, fans, commercial partners, and venues for their unwavering commitment and support in helping our League continue its rapid growth journey.

“We remain focused on driving growth as the intensity and competitiveness of the season goes to another level.”

Strong TV ratings have been complemented by fans streaming through the gates, with 11 sell-out crowds already recorded in Melbourne, Adelaide, Tasmania, and Perth, up from seven sell-outs at the same time last season. More than 300,000 fans have attended games this season as the NBL remains one of the best sport entertainment products in Australia and New Zealand.

The digital footprint of the NBL is also expanding, with a 40% year-on-year growth in social following, a 36% rise in app downloads and a 33% increase in website and app visits, showcasing fans are more engaged than ever with the League.

The 2024/25 Hungry Jack’s NBL season continues on Thursday night, with the Brisbane Bullets facing Melbourne United at 7:30pm AEDT at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, before the Perth Wildcats battle the Tasmania JackJumpers at 9:30pm AEDT at RAC Arena. Both games will be broadcast live on ESPN.