Save the debate whether baseball or football is America's favorite pastime for another day. When it comes to popularity on social media, nothing touches the National Basketball Association at the moment.
Earlier this week, the NBA eclipsed the 30-million follower mark on Instagram. It might seem like a rather trivial feat to some, especially those without any sort of interest in social media, but it's a big deal considering how it compares to the other three professional sports.
Chart: The @NBA on @Instagram: From 0 to 30 million followers in less than 6 years, lapping other major American sports leagues. pic.twitter.com/MkJsgJS8OP
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) August 9, 2018
The NFL has 11.7 million followers. MLB has 4.5 million. The National Hockey League (NHL) has 3 million.
Yes, Instagram is a global application. Yes, the NBA has a much bigger global fan base than the other sports. Still, it's impressive since everyone seems to love to hate the NBA for one reason or another.
View this post on InstagramSo, in honor of the NBA going from zero to 30 million followers in under six years, let's just have some fun and take a look at some of the other great things its social media team comes up with.
Top Plays
View this post on InstagramIt almost seems too easy to gain attraction when rising stars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo jump over other another human in the middle of a game at Madison Square Garden. However, nobody crushes the game quite like the NBA when it comes to cool countdowns with the best highlights from biggest stars. It also helps there are at least five what-just-happened moments in essentially every single game.
News
View this post on InstagramThe league obviously has the information before everyone else, but they know how to deliver with videos and graphics that put the other sports to shame.
Tributes
View this post on InstagramUnless you are an avid fan of a specific player or the entire roster of your favorite team, chances are you will not know anyone's birthday. That's why we have the NBA to remind us when an All-Star celebrates one.
Pop Culture
View this post on InstagramFrom sneakers to jerseys to current events, the NBA ties it all together masterfully. These photos from Lollapolooza in Chicago capture it perfectly.
Comedy
View this post on InstagramWhat's a good social media account without being able to laugh? There is never a dull moment in the NBA and they make sure to let you know the good, the bad, and the downright crazy.
Cheers, NBA. This is pure domination.
READ MORE: Kawhi Leonard Finally Breaks Post-Trade Silence
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