“NBA in desperation mode!” – Stephen Curry and players getting shot meter and badges in NBA Cup games has fans losing their minds

NBA and TNT announced a brand new broadcast addition featuring stars like Stephen Curry and others getting shot meters, badges, etc.

“NBA in desperation mode!” – Stephen Curry and players getting shot meter and badges in NBA Cup games has fans losing their minds

NBA announces brand new broadcast addition featuring stars like Steph Curry

The NBA is giving its fans a novel way to experience games by incorporating features from the popular NBA 2K25 video game into live broadcasts of the NBA Cup knockout rounds. The partnership between TNT Sports, NBA 2K, and Genius Sports will debut a specialized NBA 2K25 DataCast on truTV and Max during the tournament quarterfinals, running from December 10 to December 14.

This alternative broadcast overlay will feature in-game elements like shot meters, badges, and video game-style camera angles. It will also provide real-time player data, including shot probabilities and distances, embedded into the stream via Genius Sports.

YouTube video

In a promotional post for their upcoming broadcast overlay, Bleacher Report, a subsidiary of TNT, showed off an example of their brand new overlay featuring a still of Stephen Curry’s dagger three against the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Cup. As a bonus, fans with NBA 2K25 accounts can unlock six exclusive Amethyst MyTEAM packs using Locker Codes during the broadcast.

FS Video

The integration of video game elements with live sports is part of a broader trend, as TNT has previously experimented with similar DataCasts for the NHL and MLB. This new NBA initiative aims to create a more immersive experience for younger fans, bridging the gap between gaming and sports. However, it seems like not everyone is ready for the NBA’s latest broadcast initiative.

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Fans left unimpressed by ‘gimmicky’ viewership attempt by NBA

Despite the ambitious nature of the NBA’s new broadcast approach, the response from fans has been mixed at best. Many took to social media, labeling the updates as “gimmicky” and a “desperate attempt” to attract younger viewers. Others pointed to the league’s declining viewership numbers as the underlying reason for such drastic changes in their broadcast.

The probable cause behind this seems to be the league’s declining viewership ratings. NBA games on ESPN have seen a 28% drop in viewership compared to last season, averaging 1.77 million viewers through the first 18 games. TNT has fared slightly better, with numbers remaining flat at 1.8 million viewers per game. Still, the overall decline has raised questions about the league’s long-term appeal.

The falling ratings have analysts speculating on the causes. Some believe the sheer number of regular-season games dilutes interest, while others point to a lack of continuity in team rosters and even uniform designs, which makes it harder for casual fans to form lasting attachments to teams and players. Whatever be the reason, change is always welcome and no one knows that better than NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.