Turner Sports has confirmed its commitment to maintaining its long-standing partnership with the NBA. Warner Bros. Discovery has announced its decision to match Amazon Prime Video's offer of $1.8 billion per year for the NBA media rights. Turner Sports has been associated with the NBA since 1984, with games airing on TNT since the network's inception in 1988.
Warner Bros. Discovery expressed its dedication to providing fans with top-notch coverage, including live game productions and iconic studio shows, for many more years to come. The NBA's Board of Governors recently approved 11-year media rights deals with Disney, NBC, and Amazon Prime Video, collectively valued at $76 billion, starting from the 2025-26 season.
Amazon Prime Video's offer includes broadcasting games on Thursday nights, following its NFL coverage, with additional nights on Fridays and Saturdays. The NBA is currently reviewing Warner Bros. Discovery's matching offer, which, if accepted, would see TNT likely airing games on Thursdays and other nights streamed on Max.
Despite challenges during negotiations, Warner Bros. Discovery emphasized its commitment to delivering exceptional coverage to basketball fans. The company's willingness to match the offer showcases its determination to uphold its partnership with the NBA.
Retaining the NBA rights is crucial for Warner Bros. Discovery, as it ensures continued access to popular programming like 'Inside the NBA.' The financial commitment required to secure the rights is seen as necessary for the company's future success in the media landscape.
The NBA is expected to finalize the media deals soon, with ESPN and ABC retaining the top package, including conference finals and NBA Finals coverage. NBC and Warner Bros. Discovery will alternate broadcasting one of the conference finals series, marking NBC's return as an NBA broadcast partner alongside ABC.
Overall, the NBA's media rights landscape is evolving with significant deals in place, ensuring fans will continue to enjoy high-quality coverage and programming for years to come.
