FOX Sports and The Basketball Tournament (TBT) have signed a multi-year media rights agreement to broadcast games on FOX, FS1, and FS2. The agreement will bring 27 live games, including three on FOX. TBT co-owner Chris Paul and founder Jon Mugar expressed excitement about the partnership, which will reach a broader audience of basketball fans. The tournament is a 64-team, single-elimination event hosted across eight regionals, with alumni teams representing college basketball programs hosting the events.
Notable players committed to participating in TBT this year include former NBA players Eric Bledsoe, Willie Cauley-Stein, Russ Smith, and Montrezl Harrell. The tournament has gained popularity among fans and players, with a record 77,000 fans attending games last year. TBT’s unique Elam Ending®, where teams play to a Target Score™, has garnered attention and is now used in various basketball events globally. The tournament will feature regionals in cities like Wichita, Houston, Indianapolis, and Lexington, with the quarterfinals scheduled for July 29-30, and the championship game on August 4.
The partnership with FOX Sports will elevate TBT’s profile and provide more top-notch basketball action to viewers. The tournament’s schedule will include live broadcasts of key games, such as the $1 million championship game and matches featuring popular alumni teams like The Ville and La Familia. TBT founder Jon Mugar expects this summer’s tournament to be the most electrifying yet, with the addition of FOX’s coverage. The collaboration aims to make TBT a mainstay on the basketball calendar, offering competitive and entertaining games.
This year marks the 11th edition of The Basketball Tournament, with a growing number of NBA-experienced players participating. The tournament’s previous success, including record attendance numbers and player engagement, has solidified its position in the basketball community. TBT’s format, player roster, and unique ending system have contributed to its popularity and continued growth over the years. The partnership with FOX Sports is seen as a significant step towards expanding TBT’s reach and enhancing its presence in the basketball world.
Fans can expect a thrilling summer of basketball with TBT’s regionals, quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship games set to air on FOX Sports networks. The tournament’s lineup of talented players, exciting matchups, and the opportunity to play for a $1 million prize will offer viewers an engaging and competitive basketball experience. With the addition of live broadcasts on FOX, TBT aims to captivate a broader audience of basketball enthusiasts and establish itself as a premier event on the basketball calendar. More details about TBT’s full television schedule and broadcast plans will be announced closer to the event dates.
