David Zaslav’s diss track in 2022 has sparked a battle between TNT Sports and NBC for the last NBA TV rights deal. Zaslav’s previous comments about not needing the NBA have put him in a difficult position, as he now must decide whether to pay the reported $2.5 billion per season asking price or risk losing the NBA to NBC. Both networks are expected to include a conference final every other year in their deals, with NBC offering a one-two play-by-play punch of Mike Tirico and Noah Eagle.
ESPN and Amazon Prime Video have already secured deals with the NBA, leaving NBC aggressively going after Zaslav’s deal. NBC’s offer includes putting games on its broadcast network and leveraging the NBA to boost its subscription streamer, Peacock. While TNT Sports has a long history with the NBA and iconic personalities like Charles Barkley, NBCUniversal chairman Mark Lazarus has strong relationships with NBA executives and a history with the league dating back to his time at Turner.
The future of TNT Sports hangs in the balance as Zaslav navigates the NBA TV rights negotiations. If he pays top dollar for a lesser package, he risks dishonoring his previous statements about not needing the NBA. If he loses the NBA to NBC, TNT Sports may face an uncertain future, despite still having other sports broadcasting rights like MLB, the NCAA Tournament, NHL, and NASCAR. The network’s iconic NBA coverage, with memorable moments featuring Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, Shaquille O’Neal, and Barkley, could be at risk if a deal with the NBA falls through.
NBC’s bid to regain the NBA rights comes with the promise of putting games on its broadcast network and utilizing the league to enhance its streaming service. Lazarus’ history with the NBA and strong relationships with key figures in the league position NBC as a formidable contender in the negotiations. Despite TNT’s storied history with the NBA and loyal employees, the prospect of losing the rights deal looms large over the network. Zaslav’s trash talk may come back to haunt him as Silver holds the metaphorical ball in deciding the final outcome of the negotiations.
In the midst of the ongoing negotiations, Zaslav’s previous comments about not needing the NBA have created a dilemma for TNT Sports and NBC. While NBC’s aggressive bid and strategic offerings make them a strong competitor, Zaslav’s willingness to pay top dollar may ultimately determine the outcome of the deal. The future of NBA broadcasting rights remains uncertain, with the fate of TNT Sports and its iconic coverage hanging in the balance. As the negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether Zaslav’s bold words will prove to be hollow or if he can secure a deal that preserves the legacy of TNT’s NBA coverage.
