New York, NY — ESPN has joined the chase for the NBA’s upcoming centralized platform for local game broadcasts, saying it is willing to carry in-market contests without demanding exclusivity.
Speaking at a CNBC conference attended by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro confirmed the network “wants to be involved” when the league launches its new local streaming service, expected for the 2027-28 season. “We have never once said that we require exclusivity for local, in-market rights,” Pitaro said. “We’re perfectly comfortable with doing something non-exclusive.”
The NBA began exploring a league-run local distribution model after the regional sports network system faltered. Teams will keep their individual local arrangements for the upcoming season while the league finalizes long-term plans.
Pitaro’s remarks follow a report by Sports Business Journal earlier this week that identified YouTube as the early front-runner to host the planned streaming hub, which could eventually serve more than 20 franchises. A key unresolved issue is whether high-value clubs such as the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks—both tied to lucrative regional television contracts—will participate. Pitaro indicated ESPN would air those teams on a non-exclusive basis, allowing them to preserve existing deals.
Silver said the league is still “evaluating multiple options” before settling on a definitive structure for distributing local games beyond 2027-28.
Source: Hoops Wire
