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The Effect of Superstar Players on Game Attendance: Evidence from the NBA

Author

Listed:
  • Brad Humphreys

    (West Virginia University, Department of Economics)

  • Candon Johnson

    (West Virginia University, Department of Economics)

Abstract

Economic models predict that "superstar" players generate externalities that increase attendance and other revenue sources beyond their individual contributions to team success. We investigate the effect of superstar players on individual game attendance at National Basketball Association games from 1981/82 through 2013/14. Regression models control for censoring due to sellouts, quality of teams, unobservable team/season heterogeneity, and expected game outcomes. The results show higher home and away attendance associated with superstar players. Michael Jordan generated the largest superstar attendance externality, generating an additional 5,021/5,631 fans at home/away games.

Suggested Citation

  • Brad Humphreys & Candon Johnson, 2017. "The Effect of Superstar Players on Game Attendance: Evidence from the NBA," Working Papers 17-16, Department of Economics, West Virginia University.
    • Handle: RePEc:wvu:wpaper:17-16
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    File URL: http://busecon.wvu.edu/phd_economics/pdf/17-16.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Cited by:

    1. Francesco Angelini & Massimiliano Castellani, 2019. "Cultural and economic value: a critical review," Journal of Cultural Economics, Springer;The Association for Cultural Economics International, vol. 43(2), pages 173-188, June.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    superstar effect; attendance demand; censored normal estimator;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Z2 - Other Special Topics - - Sports Economics
    • L83 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Sports; Gambling; Restaurants; Recreation; Tourism

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