NBA fans have begged ESPN/ABC to make the NBA Finals feel a little more like an NBA Finals and asked at the very least they show starting lineup introductions to add some pizzazz to Finals production.
Apparently, the TV executives have listened.
Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, the network will broadcast the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers starting lineup introductions for tonight’s Game 5. According to Charania, it’s the first time starting introductions will be shown at the Finals since 2013.
Earlier this series, fans lamented there was no NBA Finals logo on the court in Game 1, and then roasted the league for adding virtual logos in Game 2. NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Finals logos on the court disappeared a year ago because some players complained the temporary decals were slippery. The digital versions weren’t much better. But hey, at least the league and its TV partners are listening.
As folks on social media pointed out, sometimes bullying works.
What time is Pacers vs Thunder Game 5 today? NBA Finals tip time
Game 5, Mon., June 16: Pacers at Thunder, 8:30 p.m.
What channel is NBA Finals Game 5 Pacers vs Thunder on?
Game 5 is on ABC.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: ABC will show NBA Finals starting lineups player intros in Game 5: ‘HOW DID IT TAKE THEM THIS LONG’
Reporting by Matthew Glenesk, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
