For first time in over a decade, ABC to air full Game 5 intros for starting lineup featuring OKC Thunder and Indiana Pacers
Indiana Pacers vs OKC Thunder. Image via: Julio Cortez/ AP
For the first time since 2013, ABC will air the full starting lineup introductions ahead of Game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers. In a move that responds directly to years of fan frustration, the network is bringing back one of the most nostalgic and dramatic elements of Finals broadcasts.
The decision follows widespread criticism of ABC and ESPN's presentation style, which many believe has failed to capture the grandeur of a true championship event.
Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers starting fives get rare ABC spotlight ahead of pivotal Game 5
ABC is making a far more meaningful change. 'ABC is airing the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers starting lineup introductions ahead of Game 5 of the NBA Finals tonight (8:30 pm ET) – the first time starting introductions will be broadcast at the Finals since 2013, sources said,' ESPN's Shams Charania revealed on X.
That announcement struck a nostalgic chord with longtime fans. For many, the Finals intros were a ritual, think of the booming music, the announcer's voice building anticipation, and the spotlight moments that made players feel like legends. As fans on social media recalled, 'Sometimes bullying works.'
Fans react to ABC's surprising yet commendable decision
NBA fans didn't take long to respond to the exciting news of the airing starting 5 introduction. Fans online are hailing this as a stunning move with a bag of excitement stored for the highly anticipated Game 5.
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'This is what we need,' one fan wrote, adding, 'We want the announcer to also say Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the best player in the world before he introduces him.'
Another fan questioned, 'Why did they stop doing this?'
'Proof that we as a Twitter society can bully even major networks into doing what we want,' one user shared.
'Adam Silver reads NBA Twitter confirmed,' another commented.
'THANK YOU, make it about the players not the media personalities,' another wrote.
'Are we basically saying now that NBA Twitter has the power to change NBA games? First trophies on the court, now this lol,' on fan shared.
Regardless, ABC's move has been hailed by fans, and it will be on national television for the first time in over a decade.
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