In a significant development for the NBA, the league’s media rights landscape is poised for a major shakeup following the 2025 season. Reports on Wednesday morning revealed that ESPN, NBC, and Amazon Emerge are set to become the primary broadcasters for NBA games, leaving a notable long-time partner, TNT, out of the mix. This shift comes as the NBA prepares to renew and restructure its media rights agreements, which have been a major underlying story this season.
Despite being left out of the initial reports, TNT might not be entirely out of the picture. The Sports Business Journal highlighted in April that both ESPN and TNT have the right to match any new deals the NBA might strike with a third party. This clause in the existing contract terms could allow TNT to re-enter the fray.
“NBA media rights incumbents ESPN and TNT have the right to match any new deal that the league may strike with a third party, according to a source familiar with the existing contract terms,” reported the Sports Business Journal.
The NBA is nearing an 11-year, $76 billion media revenue deal with ESPN, NBC and Amazon, per @WSJ.
ESPN: $2.6B/year
NBC: $2.5B/year
Amazon: $1.8B/yearThat means TNT is out after next season. š pic.twitter.com/JKrh8IBui6
ā Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) June 5, 2024
This provision means that if the NBA decides to bring in Amazon Emerge, NBC/Peacock, or another streaming service, TNT has the opportunity to match the financial terms of the deal. Given Amazon’s reported offer of $1.8 billion per year, TNT could potentially leverage this clause to continue its long-standing partnership with the NBA.
The potential exclusion of TNT from the new media rights deal raises questions about the future of its flagship show, “Inside the NBA.” The show, featuring Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson, has become a staple of NBA broadcasting and a fan favorite for its candid commentary and chemistry among the hosts.
Earlier this week, Shaquille O’Neal discussed the implications of the new media rights deal on Draymond Green’s podcast. Reflecting on the possibility of “Inside the NBA” ending, Shaq expressed mixed emotions.
āIām glad I have different options to fall back on, but when I go left, it just starts to get sad,ā Shaq said. āLike damn, no Ernie, no Chuck, no Kenny. Then, when I think right, itās a lot of other possibilities, great possibilities. But right now, Iām just going to stay in the middle.ā
Shaq’s comments highlight the uncertainty and emotional weight of potentially leaving behind a show that has defined much of his post-playing career.
Charles Barkley, another key figure on “Inside the NBA,” also addressed the situation during an appearance on the “Dan Patrick Show” a couple of weeks ago. Barkley revealed his contingency plan should TNT be unable to secure a new deal with the NBA.
“I’ve talked to the guys about everybody signing with my production company because I have my own production company,” Barkley said. “I would love to do that.”
Charles Barkley says morale sucks amid the uncertainty of “Inside the NBA” moving forward. And discusses the possibility of hiring the crew to his production company, continuing to do the show, and selling it. pic.twitter.com/gLoiKm7SM3
ā Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) May 23, 2024
Barkley’s proposal suggests a way to keep the beloved show alive, even if it means moving it under the umbrella of his own production company. This idea reflects his determination to preserve the camaraderie and unique format that “Inside the NBA” has cultivated over the years.
The impending changes in the NBA’s media rights deal signify a pivotal moment for the league and its broadcasting partners. The inclusion of NBC and AmazonĀ Emerge introduces new dynamics and opportunities for how NBA games will be consumed by fans. NBC’s return to NBA broadcasting brings nostalgia for many who remember the network’s coverage during the 1990s, while Amazon’s involvement underscores the growing influence of streaming services in sports media.
TNT’s potential exclusion, however, marks a significant shift. “Inside the NBA” has not only been a cornerstone of TNT’s NBA coverage but has also set a high standard for sports commentary and entertainment. The show’s potential end, or transition to a new platform, would be a notable loss for fans accustomed to its unique blend of humor, insight, and authenticity.
Ultimately, the NBA’s media rights renewal reflects broader trends in media consumption and the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting. As traditional networks and streaming giants vie for content, the decisions made in the coming months will shape the future of how fans experience the NBA. The league’s ability to adapt to these changes while maintaining its core fan engagement will be crucial in navigating this new era of sports media.
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