BASKETBALL BROADCAST GUIDE

The NBA is in a transitional period. Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) are dying, and the league is preparing for a massive new streaming era.

The RSN Collapse (Bally Sports)

For decades, local NBA games were broadcast on RSNs. With the bankruptcy of Diamond Sports Group (Bally Sports), many teams are taking their local rights back and launching direct-to-consumer streaming apps (e.g., Phoenix Suns Live, ClipperVision) or returning to free over-the-air television.

NBA League Pass Explained

League Pass allows you to watch out-of-market games. It strictly enforces blackouts for:

  1. Nationally televised games (ESPN, TNT, ABC).
  2. Local in-market games (determined by your IP address and billing zip code).

If you live in Chicago, you cannot watch the Bulls on League Pass. You must use the local broadcaster.

The 2025-2036 Rights Deal

The NBA has signed a new 11-year, $76 billion deal starting in the 2025-2026 season. TNT has lost its rights. The new layout:

  • Disney (ABC/ESPN): Retains the "A" package, including the Finals.
  • NBCUniversal: "B" package, returning NBA to NBC with games on Peacock.
  • Amazon Prime Video: "C" package, including the In-Season Tournament and Thursday night games.

LOCAL BLACKOUT CHECKER

Enter your US zip code to see restricted regional networks. (Simulation)

LEAGUE PASS VALUE ESTIMATOR

Are you watching enough games to justify the cost? ($150/season)