A Splash: NBA Media Rights Deals Set to Revolutionize Telecasts
Unprecedented Expansion of Streaming Services to Broadcast National Games
Buckle up! The NBA has finalized an historic 11-year, $76 billion media rights agreement with Disney, NBCUniversal, and Amazon, maximizing the accessibility of national games through widely available streaming platforms.
ESPN, ABC, and Disney+:
- ESPN and ABC will continue broadcasting NBA games, offering an extensive schedule of regular season, playoff, and Finals coverage.
- Disney+ will exclusively stream approximately 190 games per season, including up to 25 nationally televised games and select playoff games.
NBCUniversal:
- NBC and regional sports networks (RSNs) owned by NBCUniversal will televise a package of national games and shoulder exclusive coverage of the NBA Draft.
- Peacock, NBCUniversal's streaming platform, will broadcast a slate of regular season and playoff games, including the NBA All-Star Game.
Amazon Prime Video:
- Amazon Prime Video will offer a weekly package of 80 exclusive regular season games on Fridays.
- Amazon will also produce and distribute an alternative broadcast of the NBA All-Star Game and one conference finals series.
What's Next for the NBA and Its Fans?
This landmark deal signals a transformative shift in the NBA's media landscape, with streaming services playing a pivotal role. It promises to:
- Greatly expand the reach of NBA telecasts, making games more accessible to fans.
- Provide fans with a variety of viewing options, including traditional cable and streaming platforms.
- Drive significant revenue growth for the league, allowing for continued player salary increases.
As the NBA enters this new era of media distribution, fans can expect an unparalleled viewing experience that combines the excitement of live sports with the convenience of streaming technology.
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