As the NBA continues to grow and expand its global market, ESPN is taking steps to become a pioneer in the media industry. When it comes to sports coverage, ESPN is already nearly unmatched when you consider the strength of its television, social media, and radio platforms.
But now, with the network in talks on a plan to share equity with several major sports leagues, ESPN could be on the cusp of a takeover. In a new report, NBC insider Alex Sherman dropped the news that has the entire NBA buzzing.
“As Disney considers a strategic partner for ESPN, Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger and ESPN head Jimmy Pitaro have held early talks about bringing professional sports leagues on as minority investors, including the National Football League, National Basketball Association and Major League Baseball, according to people familiar with the matter.”
In recent years, ESPN has been in heavy competition against networks like CBS, FOX Sports, Sports Illustrated, and Bleacher Report. But if they’re able reach an agreement with the NBA (or any of the other leagues) it will only further cement their status as the leaders in sports broadcasting.
“ESPN would like to morph itself into a streaming hub for all live sports. Management would like to launch a feature allowing ESPN.com or the ESPN app to funnel users to games no matter where they stream, CNBC reported earlier this year. While striking a deal with professional sports leagues wouldn’t be easy, Disney appears to be pushing the envelope on its thinking to prepare for a streaming-dominated world that includes its full portfolio of sports rights.”
BREAKING: ESPN has discussed a strategic partnership with the NBA, NFL, and MLB that would allow the sports leagues to own equity in the company.
ESPN’s access would be UNREAL. Wow. 🤯
(via @CNBCnow, https://t.co/c1x3K3AIR1) pic.twitter.com/rcV1zIiId3
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 21, 2023
The NBA has yet to accept ESPN’s ground-shaking offer but Adam Silver and his team will certainly have a lot to think about as they head into a new season.
What’s Next For The NBA?
After successfully adding the play-in tournament, the league has plans to incorporate a mid-season tourney and several other rule changes in the near future. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact the game itself, but it’s clear that Silver is doing whatever he can to ensure that the league is adapting, innovating, and growing every year.
A partnership with ESPN may be a risk in some ways but don’t be surprised if conversations re-emerge at some point down the road. As the NBA builds up its product, it’s only natural that they should consider every opportunity afforded to them.
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