Chicago (USA), July 22 (EFE) – The American network TNT, part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s portfolio, submitted an offer to the NBA on Monday that matches Amazon’s proposal for broadcasting rights starting the 2025-2026 season. This move aims to extend a relationship with the basketball league that has lasted for 40 years.
In an official statement, TNT confirmed, “We have reviewed the offers and matched one of them. This will enable fans to continue enjoying unique coverage, including top-notch live game productions and our iconic shows and commentators.”
While TNT has not specified which proposal they matched, American media reports suggest that it is Amazon Prime Video’s offer. The streaming giant reportedly presented an offer of $1.8 billion to the NBA.
TNT’s bid comes at a time when the NBA appeared close to finalizing a broadcasting rights deal with ESPN, Amazon, and NBC, estimated at around $76 billion over eleven years. This agreement would end Warner Bros. Discovery’s longstanding association with the NBA, which has featured successful programming since 1988, including the popular show “Inside the NBA” with Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith.
The NBA expects to generate about $7 billion annually from the new agreements, which represents a significant increase, roughly 2.5 times its current deal. For context, the NFL earns about $10 billion per season.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the potential of streaming platforms in June, prior to the Finals. He noted, “Many of those streaming platforms that were hesitant last year to invest in live sports events are now coming on board. You can see where attention is going; we are all moving toward premium programming on streaming platforms.”
Silver elaborated that streaming offers advantages like added features, multiple languages, and different camera angles, providing fans with options that traditional television does not offer. He also pointed out the rapid decline in cable usage, highlighting a significant trend in viewership preferences.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/america/agencias/2024/07/22/tnt-iguala-la-oferta-de-amazon-y-pelea-por-retener-derechos-de-la-nba/
