Paul George gives the exact reason why NBA ratings continue to drop despite unreal surge in players’ salaries
Paul George opened up about the reason why the NBA's ratings continue to fall despite the heavy revenue generation for the league's value.
Follow Us
Paul George opens up about declining NBA ratings
The conversation around declining NBA ratings has gained momentum in recent years. This comes despite player salaries having soared to unprecedented levels. Multiple-time All-Star Paul George spoke about the topic on his popular ‘Podcast P’ show. The Philadelphia 76ers star offered his candid take on the issue.
While some attributes the loss of viewership to certain political statements made by the players, George points out the real issue. According to the veteran forward, the NBA’s growing reliance on analytics is one of the main culprits behind the ratings slump. Paul George noted that this data-driven approach has sanitized the game.
Analytics kind of took over the game being played. Coaches want three-pointers, or a layup, or get to the free-throw line… A lot of them are old-school fans. They’re used to how the NBA was.
Paul George said on his podcast
George’s overall point was focused more towards how the evolving playstyles in the league have perhaps diminished watchability. The widespread focus on efficiency, favoring three-pointers, layups, and free throws has created a homogenous style of play. Fans accustomed to the rugged physicality of the past feel disconnected, especially when combined with the frequent injuries to star players.
PG keeps it real on why NBA ratings are dropping:
— Podcast P with Paul George (@PodcastPShow) December 30, 2024
"Analytics kind of took over … coaches want 3-pointers, layups or get to the free throw line." pic.twitter.com/1rGvTN3irv
While today’s players are arguably more skilled than ever, the gameplay often feels repetitive is what George argued. Most teams employing similar strategies remains another problem. This sentiment is definitely not new, with pundits across the league like Shaquille O’Neal warning of similar issues with the modern NBA.
Paul George continues to adapt to new role with 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George is also navigating a period of adjustment in his first season with the team. Known for his scoring prowess, George has struggled to find his rhythm offensively. He has posted career-low shooting percentages through the early part of the season.
Head coach Nick Nurse acknowledged the challenge of integrating George into the Sixers’ system. This is particularly with the team’s offense heavily centered around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
I mean, as you guys have seen and noted, I mean, he’s certainly moving a lot better. He’s feeling a lot better. His athleticism is a lot better. All those things. So it’s all steps in the right direction
Nick Nurse told the reporters
While Paul George’s current role involves spacing the floor to create opportunities for Embiid and Maxey, the Sixers will likely need him to step up as a scorer in critical moments, in the midst of their season from hell. Nurse emphasized the importance of George’s presence, both as a shooter and a decoy who draws defensive attention away from the team’s primary stars.
Stay Updated!
Armaan Gupta
(324 Articles Published)