Ratings Review: 2012 NBA Finals

The 2012 NBA Finals posted its best rating in almost a decade. Surprising since a smaller market, Oklahoma City, was represented. The series averaged 16.9 million viewers and a 7.1 rating in the 18-49 demographic. Personally, I think the success has more to do with the shorter season because of the NBA strike. But the thug mentality that had been in the game last decade, and peaked with the Pacers/Pistons brawl and the "JailBlazers" law issues, seems to be leaving the game. A more enjoyable product is being produced. 2012 NBA Finals Ratings:

• Game 1 (06/12) - 16.20 million viewers, 6.9 demo rating
• Game 2 (06/14) - 16.67 million viewers, 7.1 demo rating
• Game 3 (06/17) - 15.55 million viewers, 6.5 demo rating
• Game 4 (06/19) - 17.50 million viewers, 7.4 demo rating
• Game 5 (06/21) - 18.46 million viewers, 7.6 demo rating