The 2024 NBA Finals Game 1 was not a ratings success, with an average rating of 5.7 and 10.99 million viewers on ABC. This marked the least-watched NBA Finals Game 1 since the 2020 and 2021 Finals. Despite having a large fanbase and star power in Luka Dončić, the Mavericks and Celtics failed to attract a substantial audience due to the lopsided nature of the game.
Boston’s early lead of 37-20 in the first quarter set the tone for the rest of the game, with the Celtics extending their lead to as much as 29 points. Although Dallas made a brief comeback attempt in the second half, the overall game was perceived as a blowout. Viewers peaked early in the first quarter at 12.11 million viewers but decreased as the game progressed.
It was a disappointing night for both teams, with Dončić scoring just 30 points on 12-of-26 shooting with just one assist and Irving contributing with only 12 points on 6-of-19 shooting. Together, they had a total of seven turnovers. The pressure is now on Dončić and Irving to step up and challenge Boston’s dominant performance in Game 1.
The Mavericks will need strong performances from their star players to make this series competitive. It is important for them to learn from their mistakes and come back stronger in Game 2, which will be played on Wednesday night at American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Overall, it seems that viewers are becoming less interested in NBA games that are too one-sided or predictable. Teams need to find ways to keep their fans engaged by putting on exciting games that are full of surprises and twists.
In conclusion, while Game 1 of the NBA Finals may have been disappointing for both teams, there is still hope for them to turn things around and make this series competitive. With better performances from their star players and more exciting games, they can win over more fans and make this season one to remember.
