What Happened to National Basketball Association (NBA)?

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has undergone a transformative period, particularly from late 2023 through early 2026, solidifying its position as a global sports powerhouse. A pivotal development was the negotiation and implementation of a new, historic media rights deal. In 2024, the NBA finalized an 11-year agreement worth an estimated $76 billion with ESPN/ABC, NBC/Peacock, and Amazon Prime Video, which officially began with the 2025-26 season. This deal marked a significant departure from the league's long-standing partnership with Turner Sports (TNT), which had broadcast NBA games for nearly four decades. The shift aimed to capitalize on the evolving media landscape, reaching younger audiences through streaming platforms while maintaining a strong presence on traditional broadcast television.

The financial implications of this new agreement are substantial. The NBA is projecting a total gross revenue of $14.3 billion for the 2025-26 season, representing a 12% increase from the previous season's $12.75 billion. This surge in revenue is largely attributed to the media deal, which will see each team's national TV revenue rise from $103 million to $143 million in the 2025-26 season, with a projected 7% annual increase thereafter. Consequently, the salary cap for the 2025-26 season was set at $154.647 million, reflecting the league's robust financial health.

The new broadcast strategy has already yielded positive results in terms of audience engagement. Early in the 2025-26 season, the NBA reported an 18% increase in overall viewership and an 87% increase in reach (viewers watching at least one minute) compared to the previous season, with nationally televised games seeing a 92% year-over-year increase in the first two weeks. The inclusion of NBC, returning to NBA coverage after more than two decades, and Amazon Prime Video has significantly expanded the number of nationally broadcast games, with 247 scheduled for the 2025-26 season, up from 172.

Beyond media rights, the NBA is actively pursuing league expansion. Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed in late 2025 that a decision on adding new teams is expected in 2026, with Seattle and Las Vegas widely considered the frontrunners. High-profile figures, including Magic Johnson, have been involved in discussions regarding a potential Las Vegas franchise as recently as February 2026, underscoring the serious consideration of these markets. The league's current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), ratified in April 2023, is in effect through the 2029-30 season, providing labor stability. The NBA G League also implemented a new four-year CBA starting with the 2025-26 season, enhancing player benefits and salaries.

As of March 11, 2026, the NBA is in the midst of its 2025-26 regular season, characterized by increased viewership and the fresh dynamics of its new media partnerships. The league continues to be led by Commissioner Adam Silver, whose contract was extended in 2024 through at least the end of the decade, reflecting confidence in his leadership during this period of significant growth and adaptation.