NBA Tipped In Deal With Broadcasters For New Online Video Service

If you find the limitations of traditional cable television subscriptions increasingly pointless, you're not the only one. Many consumers complement their cable subscription with online video streaming services and similar offerings, sometimes entirely dropping cable in favor of these alternatives. Access to sports content has been one of the biggest barriers to cable cutting for many, however, an issue that is being increasing addressed. According to sources that have spoken to the Wall Street Journal, NBA fans in particular might be in for some good news.

"People familiar with the matter" have told the WSJ that the NBA and ESPN's majority owners (Disney and Turner Broadcasting) have struck a new rights deal for the long term, something that brings with it double the fees of the previous contract, as well as plans to launch a new online video streaming service.

That new video service, says the sources, will provide regular season games live — and, most importantly, this video service won't be limited to those with a specific satellite or cable subscription, as is often the case.

This newest deal will give media rights to Turner Broadcasting and Disney through the 2024 – 2025 season. According to the sources, the NBA games will continue on ABC, TNT, and ESPN. The sources haven't revealed whether the online video service will be a monthly subscription or per-game setup; licensing deals with carriers is also being considered.

SOURCE: Wall Street Journal