Game 4 of NBA finals draws strong ratings for ABC

Game 4 of NBA finals draws strong ratings for ABC

ORLANDO, Fla. — Game 4 between the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic was the most-watched fourth game of the NBA finals in five years.

The game drew about 16 million viewers for ABC, a 16 percent increase over Game 4 last year between the Lakers and Boston Celtics. It was the best performance for a Game 4 since the Lakers and Detroit Pistons were seen by some 20 million in 2004.

The four games of the finals have been the most-viewed shows in primetime since the “American Idol” finale in May.

Thursday’s game drew a 9.4 household rating, up 8 percent over last year’s Game 4. Total viewership for the series is up 4 percent over last year.