Local reaction to a Pistons game becomes a news story

Analysis:

This story illustrates to good effect the business of local news. It is essentially a story about local Detroit Piston fans. The reporter visits a local bar and puts a group of screaming fans in front of the camera, then proceeds to do a quick synopsis of that night’s game. At the end viewers (fans, in particular) are directed to the website to participate in a poll.

In advertising, one of the keys to success is identifying and relating with the consumer. As stated earlier, this story is an example of news business. By running a story that promotes team camaraderie for the Pistons, WZZM 13 has helped Pistons fans identify themselves with the station. Viewers should also always ask themselves why a news station would want to redirect you to their website after running a story about your favorite team. Does more site traffic equate to more online advertising profits?

Total Time: 2 minutes

Story:

Anchor – Pistons fans have faith their team will take it to the top and bring home another NBA Championship Title. Our Big Story coverage continues with Gita Pullapilly. She’s at Damon’s on 44th Street with fan reaction to the Game

Reporter: Lee and Juliet, Piston fans were on edge throughout the night but now they have reason to celebrate. How are you guys feeling? (Screams from the crowd) The restaurant… (more screams)… the restaurant is starting to clear out now but for the past three hours these fans were all glued to the TV. If you listen … (screams)…I don’t even know if you guys can hear me … (screams) …all right, now there is a lot of excitement…all right, all right… now there was a lot of excitement after the first half and a lot of talk about the refs and the Miami Heat. But during the second half, Pistons fans became nervous. They were hoping for the defense to remain strong, but no matter what happened, it just couldn’t shake these loyal fans.

Fan #1: They’re doing really good, they’re staying up. Um, they’re guarding, doing way good, a lotta turnovers, so I’m happy about that.

Fan #2: Me and my buddies went to the game this year and we decided to buy the starting lineup, so…their jerseys…so we, you know, we’re pretty big fans. We don’t get to catch too many games, but we’re avid TV watchers, so…

Reporter: (Screams from the crowd) Now if you …(more screams)… now if you think this is nuts, just wait till they are in the finals. From Wyoming, Gita Pullapilly, WZZM 13 News.

Anchor: Alright, Gita, you’re not gonna have any voice left when you get back. Thanks very much, we appreciate that and all the fans. Earlier today in our Poll 13 we asked how you thought the Pistons would fare before tonights game. Most people said the Pistons will go all the way. Go to WZZM 13.com to tell us how far you think the Pistons will go, they’ve got one more series. Click on the Poll 13 at the bottom of the page and we’ll have the results for you right after tonight’s sports.