KFNZ AM-1320 (K-FAN) — the flagship station of the Jazz — is the top-rated sports talk station in the Salt Lake radio market. It’s operated by the Jazz, so it’s not surprising that the Jazz are seen as a major factor in that ratings advantage.

“We’re tied to the biggest franchise, so that helps us out a whole lot,” said Jeremy Castro, Jazz vice president of broadcasting.

In January, K-FAN averaged a 1.4 rating in listeners ages 12 and over; KZNS AM-1280 (The Zone) averaged a 1.3; KALL AM-700 (ESPN 700) averaged a 1.2. It’s also a virtual three-way tie among men 18-plus, with K-FAN and The Zone both averaging a 2.2 rating and ESPN 700 a 2.1.

But the bigger story is in the demographics, which is how stations sell advertising.

Among men 25-54 — a prime target for advertisers — K-FAN averaged a 3.1 rating weekdays from 6 a.m.-7 p.m. ESPN 700 averaged a 2.7; The Zone averaged a 1.5.

“Being able to associate with the Utah Jazz is big for a radio station,” Castro said. “It makes a huge difference in ratings, in positioning, in branding. That’s why broadcasting rights are so expensive.”

K-FAN and its sister station, KJQS AM-1230 (K-FAN 2) are the radio homes of the Salt Lake Bees, the Utah Grizzlies and Utah State football and basketball in the Salt Lake area. ESPN 700 is tied to University of Utah football and basketball and Real Salt Lake.