Warner Bros. Discovery is bidding farewell to producing content for NBA TV, marking the end of a long-standing partnership that began back in 2008. This decision comes in the aftermath of the NBA’s move to shift its TV rights to NBCUniversal and Amazon from Warner’s TNT Sports.
For nearly two decades, Warner has been in charge of operations for NBA TV, which was initially a project of the league’s own entertainment arm. However, following discussions with the NBA in recent months, it has been mutually decided to part ways at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Luis Silberwasser, chairman and CEO of TNT Sports, stated in a memo that despite several proposals to continue providing services for NBA TV, an agreement could not be reached on a way forward that recognized the value of Warner’s expertise and quality content.
NBA TV, the longest-standing subscription outlet controlled by a major sports league, has set a precedent for other leagues such as the NFL and Major League Baseball over the years. However, the shift of traditional TV viewers towards streaming platforms has impacted the economics of cable networks, even those dedicated to sports content.
Over the years, NBA TV has offered viewers a variety of programs including “NBA Gametime Live,” “NBA Inside Stuff,” and “Hardwood Classics,” in addition to rebroadcasts of the popular “Inside the NBA” show. While “Inside the NBA” is making a move to ESPN next season, Warner plans to continue producing it and potentially leverage its hosts for new sports-related programming.
The origins of NBA TV can be traced back to the launch of nba.com TV in 1999, which focused on studio programming produced by the league. Following the shutdown of Warner’s CNN/SI network in 2002, many cable distributors turned to NBA TV to fill the void.
Despite the end of their partnership in producing content for NBA TV, Warner and the NBA still maintain some ties. Warner has secured rights to use digital clips of NBA games for Bleacher Report and House of Highlights, allowing them to create NBA content for TNT Sports properties and broadcast live games in specific international markets.
The transition away from producing content for NBA TV signifies a new chapter for Warner Bros. Discovery as they navigate the evolving landscape of sports media and entertainment.
