Because there is not a NBA franchise within a 100-mile radius of Butler, basketball at this time of year ranks right up there on the fan interest scale with curling, soccer and ping pong.

Some could argue Bassmaster gets more attention than the NBA in these parts.

Too bad, because these playoffs are shaping up to be classic.

Just take the Boston-Chicago series. I don’t think there is any question that this first-round matchup is among the three best playoff series of all time — in any sport.

Four of the six games have been decided in overtime. It took three extra periods for Thursday’s game to be decided.

ESPN Classic has already added Game 6 to its lineup — and it’s only one day old.

There has been clutch shot after clutch shot, hard fouls, good offense, even better defense, blood, sweat, tears.

The two teams are going at each other like the Montagues and Capulets, like the Spencers and the Cassadines, like A-Rod and, well, everyone.

I can’t wait to see what happens Saturday in Game 7. I half expect Kevin Garnett to come out for pregame warmups in his GQ suit, then, right before tip, tear it off to reveal a uniform underneath and go out for a 20-point, 10-rebound game to lead the Celts to the second round.

In quadruple overtime, of course.