In July 2024, the NBA announced the most significant media rights deal in sports history. The $76 billion, 11-year agreement fundamentally changed where and how fans watch basketball. Here's everything you need to know.
The End of an Era: TNT Loses the NBA
For over 35 years, TNT was synonymous with NBA basketball. "Inside the NBA" with Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson became cultural icons. But in 2024, Warner Bros. Discovery lost its bid to retain NBA rights.
TNT had a matching rights clause that theoretically allowed them to match any competing offer. However, the NBA rejected their matching attempt, citing that WBD's package wasn't "materially the same" as Amazon's offer. A legal battle ensued, eventually settled out of court, and the TNT era ended.
The New Partners
The 11-year deal (2025-2036) brings three partners into the fold:
- Disney/ESPN: $2.6 billion annually - Maintains their NBA partnership with expanded streaming rights through ESPN Unlimited
- NBCUniversal: $2.5 billion annually - Returns to the NBA after 22 years, bringing games to Peacock and broadcast NBC
- Amazon: $1.8 billion annually - First tech company with exclusive NBA national broadcasting rights
Why This Matters for Cord-Cutters
The deal was specifically structured to serve streaming-first audiences. For the first time:
- All three partners offer standalone streaming options (no cable required)
- ESPN Unlimited provides full ESPN channel access without a TV provider
- Prime Video games don't require any additional subscription for existing Prime members
- Peacock offers NBA games at an affordable $7.99/month entry point
What About Local Games?
The new national deal doesn't affect regional sports networks (RSNs). Local games still air on team-specific networks like FanDuel Sports Network (formerly Bally Sports) or NBC Sports regional channels. NBA League Pass remains blacked out for local games.
However, several teams have started offering direct-to-consumer streaming options through team apps or League Pass expansions. Check your local team's website for current options.
Timeline of Key Events
- July 2024: NBA announces new media deal with ESPN, NBC, and Amazon
- August 2024: WBD files lawsuit claiming matching rights violation
- October 2024: Settlement reached; TNT's final NBA season begins
- April 2025: TNT airs its final NBA playoff games
- Fall 2025: ESPN Unlimited launches as standalone streaming service
- October 2025: New broadcast schedule takes effect for 2025-26 season
Looking Ahead
The streaming-first approach of the new deal signals where all sports broadcasting is heading. Expect more leagues to follow the NBA's lead in prioritizing standalone streaming options over traditional cable packages.