Paul Pierce says Stephen Curry's “night night” sign has helped to elevate the NBA to a worldwide audience. Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images

Paul Pierce explains why NBA personalities outshine MLB stars' global influence

By Yagya Bhargava | Last updated Apr 2, 2026 6:59 PM ET

MLB has carried the title of "America's pastime" for generations, but the NBA has been making serious moves on the global stage.

Some fans believe 2017 marked the turning point when basketball started overtaking baseball in worldwide appeal.

Paul Pierce explains why NBA surpassed MLB in global popularity

Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce talked about the topic during an episode of "No Fouls Given" and pointed to one key factor that separates the two leagues.

According to Pierce, it comes down to player personality and how the NBA markets its stars. He was not dismissing baseball's history, but he stressed that entertainment value has become a bigger part of the equation.

"Of course, basketball's taken over baseball.

"I just think, besides the sport of basketball itself, we have more entertaining people. We have more influential people, like when you see Steph doing his night-night celebration or Harden doing his, like you see that around the world, and it's a part of the game.

"I'm shocked that basketball hasn't become the number one sport, to be honest. We're more recognizable, just more influential."

Baseball still boasts powerhouse franchises like the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers, but the league has struggled to turn players into globally recognizable figures. Shohei Ohtani stands out as a rare exception with genuine international star power.

The NBA, on the other hand, has built worldwide brands around Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Kevin Durant and many more.

The league continues to expand its presence in China, Europe, and Africa, and FIBA collaboration has sparked discussions about a potential European league.

Baseball holds steady domestically with strong attendance and TV numbers, but the NBA's emphasis on personality-driven marketing has surely shifted the conversation.

Yagya Bhargava

Yagya Bhargava began his professional journey as a chef, but his passion for sports eventually led him into sports journalism. He started writing in 2022 and has since published more than 5,000 articles covering the NFL and NBA. Along the way, he’s worked with outlets like The Cold Wire, Sportskeeda, The SportsRush, and The Big Lead

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