The NBA has numerous deals with T.V networks which gives us as fans the opportunity to experience NBA games on a number of channels. As the end of the postseason approaches, the NBA’s plan to discuss future media rights deals will begin this summer.
The NBA is discussing this two years before their media rights deal with ESPN and Turner Sports is finished, according to Sports Business Daily and other sources. The contracts active as of right now will last and run through the 2015-16 season. On average, the networks are paying the league a combined $930 million annually as part of the deals, which started with the 2008-09 season.
While these negotiations are likely to take place, a formal deal is not expected until next year, when current NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver replaces current NBA Commissioner David Stern. There isn’t any word on who the NBA will make deals with or a potential partner they would make a deal with.