BBC Sport Features: Top NBA Teams With the Best Fans in 2025
In the world of professional sports, few fanbases are as passionate, loyal, and electrifying as those in the NBA. From coast to coast, basketball arenas are transformed into roaring cauldrons of support night after night. Now, BBC Sport has stepped in with a highly anticipated and widely debated ranking of the NBA teams with the best fans a list that recognizes not just size, but spirit, legacy, and unwavering dedication.
The report, which combines fan engagement metrics, home game atmospheres, social media presence, and league-wide impact, aims to spotlight the franchises whose supporters go above and beyond in backing their teams. From sellout crowds to cultural influence and iconic chants, the fanbases included in this year’s rankings have shown exactly why the NBA remains one of the most beloved leagues in global sports.
According to BBC Sport’s latest 2025 ranking, the New York Knicks claim the top spot, and rightfully so. Madison Square Garden has once again earned its nickname as the “Mecca of Basketball,” thanks to fans who’ve shown up in force, even during rebuilding years. In second place are the Golden State Warriors, whose Bay Area faithful have stuck with the team through thick and thin, from the “We Believe” days to championship parades. The Chicago Bulls take third, a testament to a global fanbase still galvanized by the Jordan era but energized by a modern resurgence. Fourth goes to the ever-passionate Boston Celtics supporters, known for their fierce loyalty and deep-rooted love for one of the league’s most storied franchises. Rounding out the top five are the San Antonio Spurs, whose fans bring unmatched consistency and class, standing strong with their team through transitions.
The Los Angeles Lakers come in sixth, perhaps a surprise to some, given the star-studded legacy and Hollywood buzz surrounding the franchise. However, BBC’s rankings highlight that sheer size of fanbase doesn’t always equate to top-tier engagement. Following closely are the Milwaukee Bucks at seventh, whose fans have become a Midwest powerhouse in energy and devotion since their recent title run. The Brooklyn Nets slide in at eighth, showing how far the team has come in building a passionate base in a competitive city. In ninth are the Los Angeles Clippers, whose fans have gained respect for sticking by a historically underdog team. Atlanta Hawks round out the top ten, with BBC noting their vibrant game-night culture and rising support.
Further down the list, the Denver Nuggets (11th) enjoy one of the most loyal followings in the West, especially after recent playoff successes. Cleveland Cavaliers (12th) fans still ride the highs of their 2016 triumph, while the Philadelphia 76ers (14th) bring relentless energy — true to their “Philly toughness.” Interestingly, the Knicks appear again at 13th, a likely editorial oversight but also a nod to the duality of their impact both in and beyond New York City. The Toronto Raptors land 15th, the only Canadian team making waves in fan rankings thanks to their national support and loud home games.
At 16th, the Phoenix Suns have a sun-soaked and loyal crowd, even if inconsistencies have tempered energy in recent years. The Sacramento Kings (17th), Memphis Grizzlies (18th), and Portland Trail Blazers (19th) showcase the strength of smaller-market teams with deeply passionate local followings. Closing the list is the Dallas Mavericks at 20th a testament to a dedicated base that continues to support their team through generational shifts.
BBC RANKINGS
1. New York Knicks
2. Golden State Warriors
3. Chicago Bulls
4. Boston Celtics
5. San Antonio Spurs
6. Los Angeles Lakers
7. Milwaukee Bucks
8. Brooklyn Nets
9. Angeles Clippers
10. Atlanta Hawks
11. Denver Nuggets
12. Cleveland Cavaliers
13. New York Knicks
14. Philadelphia 76ers
15. Toronto Raptors
16. Phoenix Suns Los
17. Sacramento Kings
18. Memphis Grizzlies
19. Portland Trail Blazers
20. Dallas Mavericks
What this list ultimately highlights is that fan greatness isn’t always about titles or market size. It’s about loyalty, passion, and community. Whether cheering through dynasties or droughts, these fans are the lifeblood of the NBA. BBC Sport’s rankings may stir debate, but they remind us why basketball isn’t just a game it’s a culture, and these fans are its heartbeat.
