In news just coming in, NBCUniversal has sparked interest in NBA fans by showing intent to obtain broadcasting rights for NBA games, presently held by TNT, and showcasing them during coveted primetime television slots.
NBCUniversal’s reported $2.5 billion tender significantly surpasses the $1.2 billion currently expended by Warner Bros. Discovery’s TNT for the NBA games each season. This ambitious move would not only bring regular-season and playoff games to NBC television but also present them on their streaming service, Peacock.
Rumors suggest NBCUniversal plans to feature two NBA games per week during primetime, across the basketball season that generally stretches from late October to the middle of April. The Wall Street Journal cites that NBC’s Sunday evening programming in fall, which already includes NFL football, could welcome this new addition.
The current deal with Warner Bros. Discovery’s TNT expires after the 2024-25 NBA season. While Warner Bros. Discovery had a chance to renew its contract during an exclusive negotiation window this month, they did not clinch the deal, thereby opening the doors for NBC to place its bid.
As the NBA analyzes offers, Disney’s ABC/ESPN is expected to renew its contract with the league for $2.6 billion yearly, marking a drastic increase from its current agreement. Tech giants such as Prime Video and YouTube are also in the fray, eyeing a new NBA streaming package.
TVLine has requested more information from NBCUniversal regarding the bid and any plans of broadcasting NBA games in accordance with the Wall Street Journal’s report.
FAQ About NBC’s NBA Television Rights Bid
- How much did NBC bid for the NBA broadcasting rights?
- NBCUniversal has reportedly bid $2.5 billion for the rights to air NBA games.
- How does NBCUniversal’s bid compare to the current amount paid by TNT?
- NBCUniversal’s bid outstrips the $1.2 billion paid by TNT per season.
- What will NBC include in its NBA broadcasting package?
- The package is said to involve both regular-season and playoff NBA games, for television broadcast on NBC and streaming on Peacock.
- When will NBA games air on NBC if the bid is successful?
- NBC plans to air two NBA games per week in primetime during the basketball season.
- Who else is competing for NBA broadcasting rights?
- Disney’s ABC/ESPN is expected to renew its contract with the league, and other companies like Prime Video and YouTube are bidding for streaming packages.
Conclusion
As the competitive landscape for sports broadcasting rights intensifies, NBCUniversal’s bold move illustrates the significant value and pull of live sporting events in today’s media market. The proposed acquisition of NBA games for primetime airing could reshuffle the deck for how fans consume one of America’s most popular sports. Stay tuned as further details emerge and the NBA considers its options for broadcasting partnerships.