The NBA’s broadcast schedule for the 2024-25 season highlights players like Anthony Edwards, Ja Morant, and Jayson Tatum. However, Paolo Banchero, an emerging star, has only nine national TV games. Ironically, Paolo Banchero’s current injury may have prevented the NBA from facing criticism for overlooking one of its brightest young talents.
Paolo Banchero Injury Saves the NBA From ‘Embarrassment’
Limited National Coverage for an Ascending Star
In his third season, Banchero has solidified his reputation as an elite power forward. Last season, he became an All-Star and was named Rookie of the Year the previous year. His rising statistics and influence on the Orlando Magic make him an increasingly essential part of the NBA’s narrative. Yet, with just nine games on ESPN and TNT, Banchero’s visibility on the national stage is limited compared to other American stars.
This limited coverage raises questions about whether the NBA is doing enough to highlight Banchero’s ascent. His influence in Orlando’s offense is unmistakable, with a usage rate of 31.2%. Even as a young star, he ranks top 20 in advanced metrics, including box plus-minus (BPM) and value over replacement player (VORP), underscoring his contributions. However, with limited national exposure, his accomplishments may not be as widely recognized.
Contrasting Exposure for Banchero vs. Other Young Stars
While Banchero’s nine nationally televised games are low, other rising stars benefit from far more exposure. The Minnesota Timberwolves, led by Edwards, boast 25 national broadcasts this season. Similarly, the Memphis Grizzlies and Indiana Pacers each have over a dozen nationally televised games. This contrast reveals a stark disparity in how the NBA promotes its future American stars.
Banchero’s low national game count is even more surprising given his All-Star performance. Despite being one of the league’s most promising players, his lower profile on national broadcasts limits his visibility, making it harder for fans—and All-NBA voters—to see his impact. This lack of visibility likely contributed to him missing an All-NBA selection last season, despite having All-NBA-level stats.
Paolo Banchero’s Injury: A Silver Lining for the NBA?
Banchero’s injury may offer the NBA an unintentional benefit by delaying any scrutiny of its scheduling decisions. Out until at least December 8, Banchero’s absence means fans won’t immediately notice his reduced national presence. But when he returns, his potential to lead Orlando to success will likely revive discussions about his national visibility.
Banchero’s sidelining brings a temporary reprieve to the NBA’s oversight. His growth, both in skills and league influence, suggests he should be a prime candidate to lead the next generation of American NBA stars. However, if his performances continue to go under the radar due to limited national exposure, the league could miss a key opportunity to promote one of its future faces.
The NBA’s Opportunity to Embrace a Rising Talent
While Edwards, Tatum, and Ja receive prominent national slots, the NBA risks underestimating Banchero’s marketability. A talented, 6-foot-10 playmaker, Banchero is uniquely positioned to capture fans’ attention. His potential as a face of the league, especially among American players, suggests the NBA should reevaluate how it prioritizes broadcast schedules.
The league has previously turned “quiet” personalities into marketable stars—consider Kawhi Leonard’s partnership with New Balance. With Banchero, the NBA has a similar chance to capitalize on his talent, provided it amplifies his visibility. His performance trajectory and influence on the Magic’s success should prompt the NBA to increase his national profile in future seasons.
The Financial Implications of Limited National Coverage
While the NBA’s choice to broadcast only nine of Banchero’s games may seem trivial, it could significantly impact his finances. All-NBA selections have a direct effect on a player’s earning potential, often raising contract ceilings and opening eligibility for higher salary tiers. Under the NBA’s “supermax” extension rules, players with All-NBA honors are eligible for contracts worth up to 35% of the salary cap, a significant increase over standard deals.
For instance, missing All-NBA status could mean Banchero loses out on tens of millions over his career. If limited exposure keeps him out of the All-NBA conversation, he risks being undervalued financially despite his on-court contributions. More national broadcasts could help raise his profile, making it easier for fans, media, and voters to appreciate his All-NBA worth. In essence, by not featuring Banchero more prominently, the NBA risks undercutting his earning potential and the marketability of one of its future stars.
Ensuring Recognition for Banchero’s Impact
Paolo Banchero’s injury may inadvertently protect the NBA from criticism over his limited national exposure. But as he returns, his performances will likely bring renewed attention to the league’s promotional choices. By giving Banchero more prominent slots, the NBA can ensure that fans, and All-NBA voters, recognize his impact.
