The Thanksgiving Classic Presented by 4PT Draws 5.1 Million Viewers, Highlights College Basketball’s Growing Appeal

The 2024 Simple Truth Thanksgiving Classic, presented by 4PT, delivered an unforgettable spectacle for college basketball, attracting an impressive 5.1 million viewers for the Illinois vs. Arkansas matchup on CBS. This marked the second-highest viewership for a regular-season college basketball game since 2008, following only last year’s Michigan State-Arizona game, which also aired in the highly-coveted post-NFL Thanksgiving Day slot.

For the second consecutive year, college basketball leveraged the massive NFL Thanksgiving audience, solidifying its status as a must-watch for sports fans during the holiday season. This year’s Classic benefitted from an NFL lead-in of over 37 million viewers, transitioning seamlessly from the Bears-Lions game to the hardwood showdown between Illinois and Arkansas.

The matchup featured two powerhouse programs with elite talent and devoted fanbases, making it an ideal follow-up to the Thanksgiving NFL action. Illinois’ connection to the Chicago market, combined with the Bears’ lead-in, only strengthened the game’s appeal. Additionally, the holiday setting amplified out-of-home viewership.

Reflecting on the success of the event, 4PT Founder Niko Bossinakis said, “We’re thankful to have been part of this historic showcase and thrilled by the exposure 4PT received. Illinois and Arkansas are two elite programs with incredible players and coaching staffs. At 4PT, we’re dedicated to elevating the basketball recruiting world with accurate, impactful information that keeps the community connected.”

The Thanksgiving Classic’s success highlights the growing popularity of college basketball and the significance of marquee matchups in prime viewing windows. With 4PT at the forefront of supporting the sport’s growth, the platform continues to play a pivotal role in connecting fans, programs, and the broader basketball community.

For more updates and coverage, follow @4PlayingTime on X and @4PlayingTime on Instagram to stay connected with the latest in college basketball.

SHARE THIS STORY ANYWHERE YOU LIKE

SHARE THIS STORY ANYWHERE

LATEST NEWS

LATEST NEWS

  • NCAA Sets March 1, 2025 Deadline for D1 Schools to Opt Into House Settlement

    Published On: February 12, 2025

    College sports are on the verge of a massive transformation. The House Settlement will allow Division I schools to directly compensate student-athletes, marking a fundamental change in how teams are built and how players are [...]

  • NCAA D2 Denies Extra Year for Non-NCAA Transfers, While D1 Grants Waiver

    Published On: February 5, 2025

    A recent proposal to extend eligibility for D2 student-athletes who previously competed at non-NCAA institutions has fallen short. The NCAA D2 Management Council considered a waiver that would have allowed these athletes to remain eligible [...]

  • Understanding the New Scholarship and Roster Limit Rules in College Basketball Starting 2025

    Published On: January 7, 2025

    Big changes are coming to NCAA Division I men’s basketball starting in the 2025-26 season, reshaping scholarship limits, roster sizes, and revenue sharing between players and schools. Here’s what you need to know per the [...]