ABA on CBS vs. NBA on CBS

Attribute	ABA on CBS	NBA on CBS
League	American Basketball Association	National Basketball Association
Teams	Multiple teams, including the Indiana Pacers and New York Nets	30 teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics
Game Coverage	CBS aired select ABA games during the 1970s	CBS airs select NBA games throughout the season
Viewership	ABA games on CBS had a smaller audience compared to NBA games	NBA games on CBS attract a larger audience

History

The American Basketball Association (ABA) was founded in 1967 as a rival league to the NBA. It featured a more fast-paced and high-scoring style of play compared to the NBA. The ABA quickly gained popularity with its flashy style of play and innovative marketing strategies. However, financial struggles eventually led to the merger of the ABA and NBA in 1976.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been around since 1946 and is widely considered the premier professional basketball league in the world. The NBA has a rich history of iconic players, teams, and moments that have helped shape the sport of basketball. The NBA has a global fan base and is broadcast in over 200 countries.

Television Coverage

CBS began broadcasting ABA games in 1968, helping to bring the league to a wider audience. The network's coverage of the ABA helped popularize the league and its players. CBS also aired the ABA All-Star Game and ABA Playoffs, further solidifying its commitment to the league.

On the other hand, CBS has been broadcasting NBA games since the 1973-1974 season. The network has a long-standing partnership with the NBA and has aired numerous regular-season games, playoff games, and the NBA Finals. CBS's coverage of the NBA has helped elevate the league's popularity and reach a larger audience.

Commentary and Analysis

CBS's coverage of ABA games featured a team of knowledgeable commentators and analysts who provided in-depth analysis and insights into the games. The network's commentators helped viewers understand the nuances of the ABA's fast-paced style of play and highlighted the talents of the league's top players.

Similarly, CBS's coverage of NBA games is known for its high-quality commentary and analysis. The network's team of commentators and analysts offer expert insights into the NBA's games, players, and teams. CBS's coverage of the NBA has helped educate and entertain basketball fans for decades.

Production Value

CBS's production of ABA games was top-notch, with high-quality camera work, graphics, and replays. The network's production team worked tirelessly to capture the excitement and energy of ABA games, enhancing the viewing experience for fans.

CBS's production of NBA games is equally impressive, with state-of-the-art technology and innovative camera angles. The network's production team goes above and beyond to showcase the athleticism and skill of NBA players, creating a visually stunning broadcast for viewers.

Legacy

The ABA may have only lasted for nine seasons, but its impact on the sport of basketball is undeniable. The league introduced the three-point line, the slam dunk contest, and a more fan-friendly style of play that influenced the NBA and modern basketball as a whole.

The NBA, on the other hand, has become a global phenomenon with a massive fan base and billions of dollars in revenue. The league's iconic players, teams, and moments have helped shape the sport of basketball and inspire generations of fans and players around the world.