But the fact is that NBA ratings are down significantly across the country, in cities with title contenders as well as lottery-bound teams. Perhaps we should gather up all the fans that still care about this league, hold a meeting in a phone booth and discuss it. Commissioner David Stern probably has him on speed dial, begging him to rescue the sinking ship. Plain and simple, the product stinks. Watch a game on ESPN Classic from the 1980s and you'll know what I mean.
Teams fly up and down the court.
Players fire away before 20 seconds run off the clock. The defensive intensity drips off the TV screen. There is a pace and fury to the action that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Every possession is crucial. Then tune into today's NBA, if you can bear it.