As reported by the Yahoo! Sports writer, Ben Rohrbach, a recent statistical study revealed which team in the NBA has the most loyal and engaged fanbase.

The report quoted Michael Lewis, the faculty director of Emory University’s Marketing Analytics Center.

His research team analyzed the general NBA fan loyalty and engagement by utilizing three standard metrics comprising fan equity (arena revenue), road equity (attendance for the visiting team) and social equity (Twitter reach). Michael has accounted for variables like team success and market population. Fan equity, which accounts for how well a team’s supporters attend and spend at games in the home court, is weighted equally to the combined weight of social equities and road equities.

Per Lewis’ analysis, the one team led the NBA in both social and road equity. The same team is ranking second, right behind the New York Knicks in fan equity. This particular team earned the overall top honors for fanbase when all the parameters are considered. This top team is followed in order by the Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers in the top five.

The conclusion? Los Angeles Lakers have the NBA’s most faithful, involved and passionate fanbase. Surprised or expected?