On Tuesday, a collection of newly unsealed documents regarding the lawsuit between Warner Bros. Discovery and the NBA provided more details about the league’s upcoming media rights agreement, set to take effect in the 2025-26 season.
The documents indicate how various NBA broadcasts will be structured beginning next season, featuring not only new partners but also different scheduling nights. By February, it is anticipated that the NBA may have a national broadcast each night of the week.
With this new deal, the NBA has welcomed two additional media rights partners: Amazon and NBC, while retaining ESPN and ABC. Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of TNT Sports, has initiated legal action to keep a portion of the NBA’s media rights. The company asserts that its current agreement’s matching rights entitle it to keep Amazon’s package. This court case is still ongoing.
An Amazon spokesperson declined to comment, and representatives from TNT Sports did not reply immediately to inquiries from The Athletic.
According to the unsealed documents, Amazon will broadcast 60 games each season under an 11-year contract with the NBA, which includes a doubleheader during the opening week, as revealed in a redacted contract disclosed in New York State Supreme Court. The agreements between the NBA and NBC, as well as the deal with WBD, were also unsealed.
Each year, after airing its NFL game, Amazon will broadcast one to two NBA games on Black Friday if it has a game scheduled. There will be two separate windows for NBA broadcasts on Amazon: Thursday night games will commence following the NFL season, while Amazon will air games on Fridays throughout the season. All games will be available through Amazon’s base subscription tier.
Amazon is set to cover the entire knockout stage of the NBA Cup, alongside the semifinals and finals. The company will also provide coverage for the Play-In Tournament and will air between 14 to 26 games per season during the first two playoff rounds, plus three Eastern Conference finals and three Western Conference finals during the duration of the contract.
In addition, Amazon will produce new theme music specifically for its NBA broadcasts as part of the agreement.
NBC’s new deal includes airing 100 NBA games each season, which will feature an opening night doubleheader likely scheduled for a Tuesday. The network plans to air games on Mondays via Peacock and on Tuesdays on NBC, with the Tuesday games having different regional distributions, similar to the geographical splits used for NFL games.
Furthermore, NBC will showcase games on at least eight Sunday nights, although these broadcasts will commence only after the NFL season concludes. The network is set to air a minimum of 22 playoff games, along with 11 “if necessary” games each season during the first two playoff rounds, in addition to six conference finals (the first of which will occur in 2026 and alternate every subsequent year).
ESPN will maintain its Wednesday night games and will also broadcast games on Saturday and Sunday, although the weekend games are likely to take place in the latter half of the season.
“There are certainly lessons learned from our national deals regarding marketplace interest in streaming premium sports and a renewed focus on broadcast,” stated NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in September. “For instance, we have significantly boosted the number of broadcast exposures in this deal compared to previous ones, reaching a level that would have been nearly unimaginable during my early days in the league, especially with the primetime exposure we can command from ABC and NBC, both integral to our new agreement.”
Required reading
(Photo: Victor Boyko / Getty Images for NBC Universal)
NBA’s New Media Rights Deal: Unveiling Broadcast Changes for the 2025-26 Season
Overview of the New Media Rights Deal
The NBA has entered a groundbreaking new media rights deal that will reshape the landscape of basketball broadcasting starting in the 2025-26 season. This multi-billion dollar agreement is a significant step for the league as it aims to enhance fan engagement, expand its audience, and adapt to the evolving media consumption landscape.
Key Highlights of the Deal
- Estimated value of the deal: $75 billion over the next 9 years.
- Partnerships with traditional broadcasters and streaming platforms.
- Increased focus on digital content and social media integration.
- Potential for localized broadcasting options to reach diverse fan bases.
Broadcasting Changes Coming in 2025-26
The new media rights deal introduces several notable changes to how NBA games will be broadcast. Understanding these changes is crucial for fans and stakeholders alike.
1. Enhanced Streaming Options
With the surge in digital content consumption, the NBA is prioritizing streaming options. Fans can expect:
- More games available for streaming on platforms like ESPN+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
- Exclusive online content such as behind-the-scenes footage and player interviews.
- Integration of virtual and augmented reality experiences for fans at home.
2. Local Broadcasts and Regional Sports Networks
The NBA is set to bolster its partnerships with regional sports networks (RSNs), allowing fans to watch local teams more easily. This initiative includes:
- Dedicated RSNs for each franchise that air all regular-season games.
- Customized content specific to local markets, including community events and player features.
- Collaboration with local broadcasters to enhance game day experiences.
3. Increased Flexibility for Fans
Fans will benefit from increased flexibility in how they consume NBA content. Changes will include:
- Subscription-based streaming packages that allow fans to choose specific teams or games.
- Enhanced mobile app features for real-time game updates and highlights.
- Improved accessibility options for viewers with disabilities.
Implications for Fans and Viewers
The new broadcasting landscape will have several implications for fans:
Accessibility
With the increased availability of streaming options, fans can view games from virtually anywhere. This accessibility promotes a more inclusive environment for international audiences as well.
Engagement
The integration of social media and digital content will deepen fan engagement. Expect:
- Real-time interaction during games via platforms like Twitter and TikTok.
- Fan polls and contests that encourage viewer participation.
- Access to personalized content based on fan preferences.
Quality of Broadcasts
Advancements in technology will lead to improved broadcast quality, including:
- Higher resolution video (4K and beyond).
- Better sound quality for an immersive viewing experience.
- Innovative camera angles and enhancements, such as player tracking and analytics during broadcasts.
Benefits of the New Media Rights Deal
The new deal is not only advantageous for the NBA but also for fans and advertisers. Here are some key benefits:
1. Revenue Growth for the NBA
The financial influx from this deal will allow the NBA to invest in player development, infrastructure, and community initiatives. This growth can also lead to:
- Higher player salaries and benefits.
- More resources for grassroots basketball programs.
2. Opportunities for Advertisers
Advertisers will benefit from targeted marketing opportunities through streaming platforms and digital content. This includes:
- Tailored advertisements based on viewer demographics.
- Dynamic ad placements during games that engage viewers without disruption.
Case Studies of Successful Media Rights Deals
Examining previous successful media rights deals can provide valuable insights into the potential outcomes of the NBA’s new agreement:
1. NFL’s Media Rights Agreements
The NFL has set a precedent with its lucrative media rights deals, resulting in:
- Expanding its audience reach across multiple platforms.
- A significant increase in viewership and fan engagement, particularly among younger demographics.
2. MLB’s Streaming Initiatives
Major League Baseball has embraced streaming with its MLB.TV service, which has led to:
- Increased subscriptions and revenue from fans wanting localized content.
- Innovative digital marketing strategies that engage fans year-round.
Practical Tips for Fans
As we approach the 2025-26 season and the rollout of these new broadcasting changes, fans can prepare by:
- Reviewing streaming service options that will offer NBA games.
- Subscribing to official team apps for localized content and updates.
- Participating in social media discussions to stay informed and engaged with the league.
First-Hand Experience with Streaming
Many fans who have embraced streaming platforms for other sports have shared positive experiences, including:
- Enhanced flexibility to watch games on various devices.
- Access to a wider variety of content, including documentary series on star players.
- Opportunities to connect with fellow fans through online communities during game time.
Conclusion
The NBA’s new media rights deal marks a significant evolution in how basketball will be consumed by fans. With increased streaming options, localized broadcasts, and a focus on fan engagement, this deal promises to enhance the overall viewing experience significantly. As the 2025-26 season approaches, fans should prepare for an exciting new chapter in NBA broadcasting.
