WASHINGTON, April 21 (Xinhua)-- The NBA finished its 2005-06 regular season with the highest average attendance in league history and the highest total attendance, it was announced by the league on Thursday.

    This season's average attendance of 17,558 fans per game surpassed the 2004-05 record of 17,314 fans per outing.

    The new total attendance record of 21,595,804 eclipsed the previous record of 21,296,497, also established last season.

    NBA arenas were filled to 91.4 percent capacity during the year.

    "Our attendance record is further evidence of the extraordinary connection that exists between players and fans," NBA commissioner David Stern said. "We are thankful for our fans continued support and passion for the game." Enditem