For the past eight years, all of the revenue generated by this website came from banner ads. Though ad rates had been dropping prior to 2020, we’ve also seen an increase in traffic to make up for it. Free websites supported only by advertising seemed to be a thing of the past, but the model was working well enough for us.
Then COVID-19 hit, reducing Hoops Rumors’ year-over-year traffic by 70% since mid-March. On top of that, ad rates decreased similarly. In April, I wrote a post explaining our situation. I was heartened by the response in the comments. Many longtime readers urged me to create a way to support the websites directly.
Given the devastation of COVID-19, the status of a basketball website is not high on anyone’s priority list. We’ll continue covering NBA trade, free agency, and draft news with the same devotion we’ve had over the past eight years. The free, ad-supported Hoops Rumors remains unchanged. But for those regular readers who have the means and desire to support Hoops Rumors directly, we’ve created Trade Rumors Front Office.
For $29.99 per year, Trade Rumors Front Office provides the following benefits:
- Ad-free, faster viewing experience on Hoops Rumors, MLB Trade Rumors, Pro Football Rumors, Pro Hockey Rumors, and in the Trade Rumors iOS/Android app. Please note that we may need about a week to perfect the removal of ads from the app. The ad removal will work instantly after sign-up on the four websites.
- Exclusive member-only online chats with Hoops head writer Luke Adams.
- An exclusive Trade Rumors Front Office badge will be displayed when you comment on Hoops Rumors.
- Most importantly, you’ll be supporting Hoops Rumors directly and helping to ensure our longevity and growth.
The launch of Trade Rumors Front Office is a big moment for us. Please consider subscribing!
Already subscribed after seeing about this over at MLBTR, but happy to give back after the sheer amount of time I’ve spent on these websites!
Maybe combine memberships of TR (or HR hoopsrumors) with the equally confusing site name that includes Basketball Reference that player names are linked to. I also use this a lot, and a better name could mean the whole package including other sports. OFO = Online Front Office or VFO = Virtual Front Office?
If you thought I wasn’t using an ad blocker already, you’re sorely mistaken lol
Exactly, This site has ads?
I really love this site. The writers do an excellent job covering the NBA and everything is up to the hour. Definitely might go to site for information regarding my Golden State Warriors and all things NBA.
So giving you a really big thank you for all your hard work and dedication. I know most Writers Do It For the Love of the Game, but still it can be a job sometimes I’m sure. Thanks for always providing the latest content for us. You have an amazing crew here. Thanks guys !!
Hi, big fans of your site. Suggest to have a Hoopsrumours only subscription. E.g. 8 USD, as i only follow on basketball news.
Hi! I appreciate the suggestion. My feeling is that the price is a good value even if you only follow one of the four sites, so I’ve decided not to unbundle. But I certainly respect people having different evaluations of that.
Do you guys ever think of just putting up a “donate” button? I would kick you some cash.
It’s not out of the question! I’ll continue giving that some thought.
Package something with hoops rumors and basketball reference For those of us who don’t follow the other sports