ESPN recorded the most-watched NBA opener in a decade, demonstrating the enthusiasm among fans leading up to the start of this season for NBA action. Nielsen reported that the first two games of this season had an average viewership of 2.8 million, which is up by 80% from last year?s opening night. The previous year only saw a little over 1.5 million viewership engagement.

It ranks as the second most-viewed premiere in the network?s history. Nevertheless, these figures should not undermine it not reaching the level set by the memorable 2003 Lakers game.

The battle of the north-east

A record-breaking number of 4,351,000 people watched with excitement as basketball lovers saw a fierce duel between the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks. A fierce atmosphere characterized the match as both teams were of the highest standard and played with ferocity.

This match between the historic rivals has always been a crowd-puller, and it was no different this time. The Celtics’ victory over the Knicks had fans on the edge of their seats, and at its peak, a whopping 4.4 million viewers. The night marked a remarkable point in NBA history at 9:45 p.m. ET.

This amazing viewership notwithstanding, the Knicks-Celtics still lack in relation to the epic Lakers game of 2003. During that unmistakable game, the Los Angeles Lakers overwhelmed their rivals 116-98, thrilling 7.41 million viewers. Basketball enthusiasts still remember that game demonstrating the everlasting charm and influence of the Lakers’ greatness.

Lakers’ 2003 Triumph: A Glimpse Into History

The Lakers? 2003 win in fact goes beyond the court but became an event. In terms of basketball players, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O?Neal, and Phil Jackson were some legends at the height of their powers. This makes the dominance of the Los Angeles Lakers in that era without any comparison.

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They played well that fateful night in 2003 and their performance attracted millions of viewers, which now form part of NBA history. That 7.41 million viewership for the Lakers in 2003 is proof of the era of star power, charisma, and basketball brilliance.

The 2023 confrontation between the Knicks and Celtics was truly spectacular and surpassed the viewership of most matches. Nevertheless, it failed to match the legendary encounter between the Lakers in 2003. This shows that the NBA landscape might change, but some games and moments remain eternal. These moments are still awaited both by new and veteran basketball followers.

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Impressive viewership marked the NBA?s return to the limelight on opening day, with an estimated 4,351,000 viewers watching the Knicks vs Celtics match. However, the Lakers have held the record for the largest television audience until today, with 7.41 million viewers during their 2003 game, reflecting the enduring appeal of iconic moments in sports.