In a major development poised to reshape the landscape of basketball broadcasting, the NBA has announced a comprehensive new agreement involving TNT Sports, ESPN, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Commencing with the 2025-26 season, "Inside the NBA," the renowned and Emmy Award-winning show, will expand its reach by airing on additional networks. This strategic move not only broadens the show's audience base but also ensures that the charismatic quartet of Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, Shaquille O'Neal, and Ernie Johnson remain at the forefront of high-profile NBA events.
A Transformative Broadcasting Agreement
The new agreement represents a synergistic partnership between the NBA, TNT Sports, and ESPN. It also marks the resolution of a legal dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery, further solidifying the collaboration. As part of the agreement, TNT Sports will continue to independently produce "Inside the NBA" from Atlanta under an extended 11-year contract. This arrangement ensures that fans can continue to enjoy the unique blend of humor, insight, and analysis that has become synonymous with the show.
Rights Exchange and Content Expansion
A notable component of the broadcasting agreement is ESPN's exchange of exclusive rights to 13 Big 12 football games and 15 Big 12 basketball games each season with TNT Sports, beginning in 2025. This exchange highlights a strategic pivot, allowing TNT Sports to gain access to additional sports content while enabling ESPN to maintain its strong coverage of other premier events.
Complementing this shift, TNT Sports has secured a global license to create, produce, and distribute NBA content. This expansive license not only bolsters TNT Sports' content offerings but also allows the NBA to feature TNT Sports-produced materials on its official website and app, thereby enriching the league's digital presence. By extending beyond traditional television broadcasts, this initiative could enhance fan engagement worldwide.
International Broadcasting and Continued Production
Another critical aspect of the agreement involves Warner Bros. Discovery, which has acquired a package of live games to be broadcast outside the United States. This acquisition underscores the global appeal of NBA games and provides international fans with more opportunities to witness live action. Meanwhile, ESPN remains committed to producing "NBA Countdown," ensuring that the network continues to deliver top-tier basketball coverage.
A Bright Future for 'Inside the NBA'
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed enthusiasm about the extended run of "Inside the NBA," stating, "The opportunity to continue the iconic and Emmy Award-winning 'Inside the NBA' is a huge win for basketball fans everywhere." Silver's remarks encapsulate the sentiment shared by many in the sports community, highlighting the show's enduring popularity and its pivotal role in enhancing the viewing experience.
This new broadcasting arrangement is a testament to the dynamic nature of sports media and the NBA's commitment to evolving with the times. By leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, the league is poised to captivate an even larger audience in the years to come. As the 2025-26 season approaches, fans can look forward to a broadened viewing landscape that remains true to the high standards and entertainment value that "Inside the NBA" consistently delivers.