NBA and MLB ratings see major drop amid fervent support of Black Lives Matter movement

NBA and MLB seasons returned last week, which brought an expected increase in television ratings as leagues were on hiatus due to COVID-19 pandemic. However, ratings have reportedly dropped after opening games for both leagues. While ratings are generally high as sporting action has returned, reports hint at a low audience due to Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests and support during games. 

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Have MLB ratings and NBA ratings dropped due to Black Lives Matter movement?

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As per Outkick, NBA ratings have dropped from a combined 5.5 million from opening night to a combined 3 million later. Los Angeles Lakers-LA Clippers game brought in a 3.4 million audience, while New Orleans Pelicans-Utah Jazz contest brought in 2.1 million. However, Boston Celtics-Milwaukee Bucks game brought in only 1.3 million viewers, while Dallas Mavericks-Houston Rockets game at primetime (9 PM EST), brought in 1.7 million views. As per reports, though numbers are high, y are lower than expected after NBA resumed after months, especially with audience in attendance. 

According to certain reports, low ratings are a direct result of Black Lives Matter movement. After players, coaches, or staff members and officials took a knee during national anm prior to games, fans took to social media to express ir anger over situation. Many asked to boycott NBA and MLB, as y found kneeling disrespectful and also promoting a 'political nda', asking leagues to stick to game only. This includes NBA's idea to allow players to have messs related to BLM and or social causes written on ir jersey instead of ir last names. As a way to support BLM movement, league also had 'Black Lives Matter' written on Disney courts. Along with NBA ratings, MLB ratings have also reportedly taken a dip due to league's efforts to raise awareness against discrimination and systemic racism. 

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(Im source: AP)