Blazers’ Viewership Soars After Switch to Sinclair Network

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Trail Blazers have seen a remarkable turnaround in viewership, leading the NBA with a 68% increase compared to last season. This follows the team’s strategic shift to the Rip City Television Network, in partnership with Sinclair Broadcast Group, which aims to provide fans with easier access to games.

Last season, the Blazers struggled with a 49% drop in viewership after relocating from Root Sports, primarily due to frustrating distribution issues when Xfinity pushed the channel into a costlier tier package, effectively limiting access for many fans. Kevin Kinghorn, the Blazers’ chief marketing officer, stated, “That was the point for sure, to try and get fans more access to games.”

The new arrangement has allowed the team to achieve 100% reach in the Portland area, addressing a significant concern among fans. Kinghorn added, “That had long been a sore point for fans, so we wanted to address that for sure.” This dramatic shift has contributed to a renewed enthusiasm among supporters, translating into rising viewership numbers.

Currently, the team’s BlazerVision platform boasts over 6,000 subscribers, with expectations for significant growth as viewers become more familiar with how to access the network’s broadcasts. Kinghorn noted, “I think people will become more accustomed to where we are.”

The Blazers’ on-court performance has also fueled increased interest. After a rocky start with a 13-28 record, the team rallied to win 10 out of their last 11 games, reviving their postseason hopes and boosting broadcast ratings by 27% during this successful stretch. “You see an exciting team on the court, fans get to know these players,” Kinghorn expressed, referring to the improved dynamics within the team.

In their recent games, however, the Blazers continue to face challenges. With Deandre Ayton sidelined due to a calf injury, rookie center Donovan Clingan has stepped up in his absence but struggled during the Blazers’ 110-102 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Clingan logged six points, six rebounds, and three blocked shots in nearly 17 minutes but also dealt with turnovers and fouls, drawing disappointment from coach Chauncey Billups.

“I thought he had some good moments in the game,” Billups said regarding Clingan’s performance, while acknowledging the need for more consistency, particularly on defense. “He was one or two steps slow, which is why I decided to just kind of go small and just change it up.”

The Blazers, now at 23-33, will need Clingan to enhance his performance against faster opponents in the upcoming games. The Lakers dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Blazers 48-33, highlighted by 11 offensive rebounds resulting in 22 second-chance points. Forward Deni Avdija remarked on the necessity for improvement, saying, “Too many second-chance points for them, too many offensive rebounds.”