The 2019 NBA Draft was one of the most exciting in recent memory, and it was made even more special by the San Antonio Spurs’ selection of French phenom, Sekou Wembanyama. Wembanyama, who was the first international player taken in the draft, set record ratings for ESPN and ABC as fans tuned in to see him make history.
Wembanyama, who stands at 7’2″, was the first international player taken in the draft since the Spurs selected Pau Gasol in 2001. He was also the first player from France to be taken in the first round since Nicolas Batum in 2008. His selection marked a milestone for international players, and it was a moment that many fans had been waiting for.
The excitement surrounding Wembanyama’s selection was reflected in the ratings for ESPN and ABC. The two networks reported record ratings for the draft, with ESPN’s coverage peaking at 5.3 million viewers during the first round. This was the highest rating for a first round draft since 2014, when Andrew Wiggins was taken with the first overall pick.
The ratings for ABC’s coverage of the draft were also impressive, with an average of 4.2 million viewers tuning in to watch the event. This was the highest rating for ABC’s coverage of the draft since 2005, when Andrew Bogut was taken with the first overall pick.
The selection of Wembanyama was a special moment for international players and fans alike. It was a moment that showed that international players can make an impact in the NBA, and it was a moment that will be remembered for years to come. The record ratings for ESPN and ABC show just how much excitement Wembanyama’s selection generated, and it is a testament to his talent and potential.
