FanDuel Sports Network, a property of Main Street Sports Group, has announced a substantial boost in viewership for its National Hockey League and National Basketball Association broadcasts during late October. The network attributes this success to increased engagement across both its streaming and linear platforms.
During the first three weeks of the NHL season, the network experienced a notable 29 percent year-over-year increase in total audience across linear, direct-to-consumer (DTC) and TV everywhere platforms. The number of minutes streamed jumped by 46 percent, and the number of unique streamers increased by 47 percent. Even the linear television audience showed growth, increasing by 26 percent.
The NBA season also started strong, with early results showing a 12 percent increase in total audience through October 24. Streaming minutes were up 36 percent, unique streamers climbed 56 percent, and the linear television audience increased by 7 percent.
According to the network's data, connected TV platforms now account for 73 percent of all streaming minutes, suggesting a trend towards shared, in-home viewing experiences. Games are accessible via the FanDuel Sports Network app, Prime Video, and participating pay TV providers.
"Fans are engaging with our coverage wherever they are, on whichever platform they choose," stated David Coletti, vice president and head of research at FanDuel Sports Network. "Streaming and DTC access continue to elevate engagement, while linear remains a powerful local driver. That’s the strength of our integrated model."
FanDuel Sports Network broadcasts live NHL games featuring teams such as the Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, and St. Louis Blues. Its NBA coverage includes games of the Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, Orlando Magic, and San Antonio Spurs.
The network's sports broadcasts are supported by the nightly lead-in program, “Countdown Live,” hosted by Stan Verrett.