NBA Playoffs Reached Nearly 30% Of U.S. Households In 2025

NBA Playoffs Reached Nearly 30% Of U.S. Households In 2025
Photo by Luke Witter / Unsplash

The NBA Playoffs were a resounding success this year, despite the perceived concerns around a "small market" Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers. Data from iSpot's new Q2 sports report shows that over the course of the playoffs, games reached nearly 30% (29.7%) of U.S. households – nearly double the reach of the Stanley Cup Playoffs (15.20%) during virtually the same timeframe.

  • iSpot found that 78.08% of those that watched the Stanley Cup Playoffs also watched the NBA Playoffs, but just 51.61% NBA Playoff viewers were also watching the Stanley Cup (both leagues appeared across Disney and WBD networks, which conceivably should drive cross-promo and cross-viewing).
  • Understanding overlap like this helps brands learn where ad dollars may go further: If there's a 78% overlap between the two, a traditional NBA Playoffs advertiser may take a more extensive look at Stanley Cup Playoff advertising to reach a similar audience for cheaper – though it's still premium inventory versus the rest of TV.
  • The NHL's lower reach showcases where the league's exciting playoff season has hit some recent speedbumps, however, as the last two Cup Finals have featured a Canadian team (the Edmonton Oilers) and a Florida team – not a "traditional" hockey area – has played for the last six titles.

Check out iSpot's full report here for more advanced insights on Q2 sports advertising on TV.