NBA TV Unveils Direct-to-Consumer Subscription Product

NBA TV has launched a direct-to-consumer subscription offering, becoming the first linear sports league network to do so.

Fans are now able to access the channel through NBA.com and the NBA app, where they can view more than 100 exclusive live NBA games, original programming and an extensive list of on-demand video content. Advanced viewing options are available via mobile devices, connected devices, gaming consoles, tablets and web browsers. The service is priced at $6.99 per month or $59.99 per year, with fans who get NBA TV from a pay-TV provider continuing to have access to the product on an authenticated basis.

NBA Digital, jointly managed by the NBA and Turner Sports, recently debuted a new NBA TV franchise, Center Court, which features a series of 20 live NBA games with enhanced viewing options throughout the 2019-20 season. NBA TV will experiment with such next-generation game-viewing enhancements as new camera angles, with footage captured exclusively on smartphones; live on-screen group chats with celebrity influencers; in-depth analytics and statistical graphics; and social media integration. Alternative streaming options for Center Court games are accessible through the NBA app and NBA.com and include “Backcourt” streams featuring Second Spectrum technology, with statistical overlays on the game feed; and “Frontcourt” streams incorporating alternative audio options with rotating groups of NBA influencers.

Tina Shah, executive VP and general manager for Turner Sports, said: “Innovation has always been at the core of our NBA Digital partnership and the launch of this direct-to-consumer product, paired with new content initiatives, will provide NBA fans even greater opportunities to engage with NBA TV and our collective portfolio of brands. As sports consumption continues to evolve, we will continue to develop new opportunities for fans to access and engage with premium NBA content.”

Chris Benyarko, the NBA’s senior VP of direct-to-consumer, said: “NBA TV is the ultimate destination for around-the-clock access to premium NBA games and programming. We are thrilled to offer more ways than ever to access NBA TV and provide a preview of the future live game viewing experience.”