NBA and Sport 24 Extend Partnership: A New Era for Fans On-the-Go
In an exciting development for basketball enthusiasts, the NBA has announced a multiyear extension of its partnership with Sport 24, a channel dedicated to delivering live sports action to travelers. This renewed agreement will allow Sport 24 to broadcast over 125 live NBA games each season, ensuring that fans can catch their favorite teams and players while flying or cruising around the world.
Expanding Access to Live NBA Action
The extension of this partnership signifies a commitment to enhancing the viewing experience for fans, particularly those who are often on the move. Sport 24 will air five live NBA games each week during the regular season, alongside marquee events such as the Emirates NBA Cup, NBA All-Star Weekend, the NBA Play-In Tournament, the NBA Playoffs, and the Finals. This comprehensive coverage ensures that fans will not miss any of the thrilling action, no matter where they are.
Richard Wise, Senior Vice President of Content and Channels for IMG’s media business, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “The NBA is one of the most entertaining and competitive sports leagues in the world. Through our coverage, we’re excited to be bringing passengers regular live NBA action, including the thrilling new format, the Emirates NBA Cup.” This sentiment underscores the importance of making live sports accessible to fans, particularly in an era where travel is more common than ever.
The 2024-25 NBA Season Kicks Off
As the 2024-25 NBA regular season approaches, anticipation is building among fans. The season is set to tip off on Tuesday, October 22, with an exciting matchup between the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics at 7:30 PM ET, followed by the Minnesota Timberwolves facing off against the Los Angeles Lakers at 10:00 PM ET. This season promises to be filled with intense competition and memorable moments, and thanks to Sport 24, fans will have the opportunity to witness it live, even while traveling.
A Commitment to Global Accessibility
The partnership between the NBA and Sport 24 is not just about broadcasting games; it’s about making the sport accessible to fans around the globe. Adam Cox, Senior Director of Global Media Distribution for NBA Europe and the Middle East, highlighted this commitment, stating, “We are excited to continue our collaboration with IMG and Sport 24 as part of our commitment to making NBA games and programming accessible to fans wherever they are.” This initiative reflects the NBA’s dedication to reaching its audience, regardless of their location.
Sport 24’s Reach and Impact
Sport 24 and its sister channel, Sport 24 Extra, have made significant strides since their launch in 2012. Currently, they are available on more than 665 aircraft across 11 airlines, including Emirates, the NBA’s global airline partner, and on over 125 cruise ships across more than 15 global cruise lines. This extensive reach allows fans to enjoy live sports coverage during their travels, making it easier than ever to stay connected to their favorite teams.
The production of Sport 24 and Sport 24 Extra takes place at IMG’s production headquarters in Stockley Park, UK, ensuring high-quality broadcasts that meet the expectations of sports fans. The collaboration between the NBA and Sport 24 began in 2015, and this extension is a testament to the success of their partnership.
Conclusion
The renewed partnership between the NBA and Sport 24 marks a significant step forward in making live basketball more accessible to fans around the world. With over 125 live games scheduled each season, including key events and tournaments, fans can look forward to an exhilarating season ahead. Whether traveling by air or sea, basketball enthusiasts can now enjoy the thrill of the NBA, ensuring that the excitement of the game is never out of reach. As the new season kicks off, fans can prepare for a year filled with unforgettable moments, all while staying connected to the sport they love.