The NBA has solidified a groundbreaking $76 billion national television deal, marking a significant evolution in its media strategy. This 11-year agreement, set to commence in the 2025-26 season and run through the 2035-36 season, introduces several new media partners: a prominent media company, a major broadcasting network, and a global streaming service. This trio replaces Warner Bros. Discovery, which has been a long-standing broadcast partner since 1989 through Turner Sports.
This transformative move not only boosts the league's revenues substantially but also extends its reach and accessibility for fans worldwide. According to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, "Our new global media agreements with Disney, NBCUniversal, and Amazon will maximize the reach and accessibility of NBA games for fans in the United States and around the world. These partners will distribute our content across a wide range of platforms and help transform the fan experience over the next decade."
Financial Upsurge
The financial implications of this new deal are profound. Compared to the current nine-year, $24 billion agreement, the new deal dramatically increases the NBA’s annual national media income by approximately 2.6 times. This rise is expected to enhance franchise values and player salaries across the league, further stimulated by an anticipated 10% annual increase in the salary cap, starting from the 2025 offseason.
Reflecting on the economic impact, the combined earnings of the 30 NBA teams were approximately $10.6 billion in 2023, with national television revenue being the largest contributor. The influx of revenue from the new media deal will undoubtedly bolster these figures, fostering growth and stability within the league.
Broadcasting Landscape
The new contract assures continuity in certain key areas. ABC and ESPN will continue to broadcast the NBA Finals and will air one of the two conference finals series in 10 out of the 11 years of the agreement. Furthermore, fans can expect ABC/ESPN to televise the Christmas Day games, marquee Saturday and Sunday regular-season matchups, and approximately 18 games in the first two rounds of the postseason each year.
Another broadcasting company will provide coverage for one of the conference finals series in six out of the 11 years. This broadcaster will also cover the All-Star Game, NBA All-Star Saturday night, opening night, and Sunday night primetime games. Additionally, they will broadcast around 28 games in the first two rounds of the playoffs each season in conjunction with their streaming service.
Embracing Streaming Services
A notable inclusion in this new era is Prime Video, which will stream one of the conference finals series in six of the 11 years. The streaming giant will also carry NBA Cup games, Play-In Tournament games, and about one-third of the first and second postseason rounds each year. This partnership signals the NBA’s commitment to leveraging digital platforms to engage a broader audience.
Honoring the Past
As the NBA transitions into this new media landscape, it remains appreciative of its long-time partner Turner Sports. “We are grateful to Turner Sports for its award-winning coverage of the NBA and look forward to another season of the NBA on TNT," expressed an NBA spokesperson. Turner Sports has been a staple in NBA broadcasting since 1989, and its flagship show "Inside the NBA" is anticipated to see its final season in its current form.
The NBA's proactive approach to engaging fans was emphasized in their statement, “Throughout these negotiations, our primary objective has been to maximize the reach and accessibility of our games for our fans.” This strategy is evident in the extensive reach of the new media deal, seamlessly blending traditional broadcasting with innovative digital platforms.
In summary, the NBA's new television deal is a testament to its forward-thinking approach and dedication to expanding its global footprint. By securing partnerships with diverse media giants, the league is set to redefine the viewing experience for millions of basketball fans, ensuring the sport's growth and popularity for years to come.