FS Ohio is “rapidly running out of advertising inventory” for Cavaliers games, as the net is “on pace to sell 95% of its ad inventory by the start of its first regular-season broadcast” on Friday, according to Kevin Kleps of CRAIN’S CLEVELAND BUSINESS. FS Ohio GM & Senior VP Francois McGillicuddy said the net is “way ahead” of its pace from previous seasons. McGillicuddy: “The demand for Cavs inventory started earlier than we've seen in the past. There is a strong interest from a variety of categories -- the auto industry, fast food, retail -- and it's a great combination of local and national (companies). We've never been at this sellout level this early.” He added that due to the return of F LeBron James and the acquisition of F Kevin Love, the "anticipation for the season has carried over to companies that want to be associated with Cavs programming." Kleps notes two Cavaliers preseason broadcasts “generated ratings of 4.1 or higher” on FS Ohio and SportsTime Ohio. McGillicuddy said that the “robust preaseason ratings ‘bode very well’ for the type of audience the network will attract for its regular-season broadcasts.” Kleps notes the team’s local TV ratings “could at least triple this season.” McGillicuddy said, “With increased demand comes increased pricing” (CRAIN’S CLEVELAND BUSINESS, 10/26 issue).
