Bill Simmons: Pelicans, Jazz, and 76ers Have Best Home-Court Advantage Right Now
On the latest episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, Simmons gave credit to three thirsty NBA fanbases: New Orleans, Utah, and Philadelphia. In fact, he said that they were giving their teams the best home-court advantages so far in the 2018 NBA Playoffs.
“At home (Philadelphia), they have, I would say, a Top-3 home court. Right now, I would say Philly. I would say Utah. And strangely, New Orleans…” -Bill Simmons on The Bill Simmons Podcast (Ep. 356)
For Ben Simmons and Philadelphia, it makes sense. After all, they packed the house to 100-percent capacity all season. On the other hand, though, New Orleans ranked No. 16 in percent-to-capacity this year (95.6 percent) and Utah ranked No. 19 (90 percent).
It should be noted that in 2016-17, the 76ers ranked No. 23 at 85.3 percent.
New Orleans, although they may lose steam with their extended break, has already advanced to the second round, while Utah and Philadelphia both are leading their respective series.
Simmons also said that the 76ers are in “the driver’s seat” in the Eastern Conference.
You can listen to the full podcast episode below: