NBC Sports and Amazon Prime Video are entering their second season as NBA broadcast partners after a successful debut that saw strong viewership across multiple platforms. They secured part of an 11-year, $7.6 billion deal that also includes ESPN/ABC, covering NBA games through the 2035-36 season. Last year, NBC averaged 2.8 million viewers for 100 regular-season games and drew nearly 11 million for the Western Conference Finals, while Amazon attracted 1 million viewers on average for 67 games and over 6.5 million for a critical playoff game. Combined NBA viewership across all broadcasters hit 170 million in the regular season, marking a 24-year high.

For the 2026-27 season, NBC plans to increase its marquee matchups, including a triple-header on opening night and ambitious quadruple headers on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Presidents’ Day. This expanded schedule reflects confidence that fans want more marquee NBA content around holidays, similar to successful Christmas Day games. Amazon Prime Video will maintain its slate of 67 regular-season games and holds exclusive rights to the Eastern Conference Finals this year, with expected strong audience turnouts for key matchups featuring star players like Jaylen Brown and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Both networks emphasize deeper game analysis and insight into basketball strategy rather than debate-heavy commentary shows. NBC’s studio team includes former stars Carmelo Anthony and Tracy McGrady, while Amazon features basketball legends like Steve Nash and Dirk Nowitzki. They aim to provide engaging yet informative coverage that focuses on the Xs and Os, which has resonated well with viewers. Meanwhile, NBC also leveraged Michael Jordan’s involvement through exclusive interviews last season, though his role will be more limited going forward.

Technological innovation is a major focus for Amazon Prime Video this season, expanding its “Prime 360” high-resolution, AI-enhanced camera system to deliver cinematic game highlights and multiple viewing angles. The “Prime Vision and Prime Insights” feature will provide fans with advanced real-time stats and camera controls for select games. Executives from both NBC and Amazon expect this growing partnership and enhanced technology to create a superior NBA viewing experience and capitalize on the momentum from their successful first season together.