Unveiling NBC's historic Olympics viewership

With the Paris Games coming to a conclusion, The Sports Professor Rick Horrow breaks down the numbers behind NBC's coverage of the Olympics, which showed historic ratings that they hope to top at LA'28

NBC Sports has a rich history that dates back to the early days of television. The division was officially launched in 1946 as part of the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), which was already a major player in the radio industry. NBC quickly became a pioneer in sports broadcasting, with its first major sports broadcast being the 1948 World Series. This event marked the beginning of NBC's deep connection with sports in America.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, NBC Sports expanded its portfolio by broadcasting a wide range of sports, including professional football, baseball, basketball, and the Olympic Games. The network gained significant recognition for its innovative approach to sports coverage, such as the use of instant replay and slow-motion technology, which enhanced the viewing experience for fans.

In the 1970s, NBC Sports solidified its status as a leader in sports broadcasting by securing exclusive rights to broadcast the NFL's AFC games, a partnership that continues to this day. The network also became synonymous with "Breakfast at Wimbledon," as it began broadcasting the Wimbledon tennis championships in 1969, bringing the iconic tournament to a broader American audience.

The 1980s and 1990s saw NBC Sports continue to innovate, particularly in its coverage of the Olympics. NBC secured the rights to the 1988 Seoul Olympics, and the network's comprehensive coverage set new standards for sports broadcasting. This period also saw the launch of "Sunday Night Football," which has become one of the most-watched television programs in the United States.

In the 2000s, NBC Sports expanded its reach by acquiring broadcast rights for the NHL, Premier League soccer, and NASCAR, among other sports. The creation of NBCSN (NBC Sports Network) in 2012 further cemented the network's role as a premier destination for sports fans.

Today, NBC Sports is known for its extensive coverage of a wide range of sports, including the NFL, Olympics, Premier League, and golf. The network's commitment to innovation and high-quality broadcasts continues to make it a key player in the sports media landscape.

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