NBA’s Era of Dominant Dynasties Ends: What Does This Mean for the League’s Future?

Alex Caruso, a guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has experience playing in major markets. He was part of the Los Angeles Lakers squad that secured the franchise’s 17th championship and also spent time playing in Chicago.

Now representing one of the league’s smallest cities, Caruso observes the stark contrast in media attention smaller markets receive. Despite the Thunder setting a franchise record for wins behind the league’s most valuable player, the team often experienced limited or no media coverage.

Caruso acknowledges the dynamics at play, noting, “Part of why players earn high salaries is due to the league’s visibility, which is largely driven by the millions of viewers in larger markets.”

Nevertheless, he believes this presents a missed opportunity for the league.

“Oklahoma City has been home to this team for 17 years, but the pride here feels like they’ve won 17 championships,” Caruso said. “The bond between our fans and the team is comparable to the passion seen in Michigan football or Kentucky basketball.”

This season offers a revealing look at how the NBA fares when its top teams hail from smaller, less populous markets. Building widespread interest beyond these locales proves challenging, especially as evolving media consumption habits reshape how fans engage with sports.

It is conceivable that the NBA Finals could feature two of the smallest markets if the Thunder defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Indiana Pacers overcome the New York Knicks in the current playoff round. Both the Thunder and Pacers boast talented rosters but lack high-profile star players.