NBC will be airing NBA games for the first time in over two decades, having paid a hefty sum to reacquire the broadcast rights. While fans were excited for the return of the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme song that became synonymous with NBA on NBC, it turns out that the classic tune’s return is currently uncertain due to ongoing negotiations.
The NBA’s national broadcast history dates back to 1953 when the league signed its first-ever deal with the now-defunct DuMont Television Network. However, that partnership only lasted a single season before NBC swooped in to establish a relationship that lasted from 1954 to 1962.
After a long hiatus, NBC and the NBA rekindled their partnership in 1990, launching what would become the legendary NBA on NBC.
That 12-year period, from 1990 to 2002, remains one of the most memorable eras for NBA fans, largely because of “Roundball Rock,” the iconic theme song composed by John Tesh. The story behind the creation of “Roundball Rock” has reached near-legendary status; Tesh famously came up with the tune in a hotel room in France and recorded it on his answering machine back in the United States so he wouldn’t forget it.
The energetic theme quickly became a hallmark of NBA broadcasts, evoking nostalgia for fans who grew up watching the likes of Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant during the 1990s and early 2000s.
The NBA on NBC era came to an end when ESPN and ABC became the primary broadcast partners ahead of the 2002-03 season, with TNT joining them as a key cable partner. For over 20 years, the trio of networks ruled the domain of NBA broadcasting, bringing fans countless memorable moments and games.
However, after this current season concludes, there will be a significant shift in NBA broadcast partners. The NBA recently negotiated a new massive media rights deal, valued at approximately $76 billion over 11 years, that will see the league renew its relationships with ABC and ESPN while cutting ties with TNT.
NBC will return as a broadcast partner, and Amazon will also enter the fold as a new streaming partner. NBC is reportedly set to pay $2.5 billion annually for the broadcast rights, a substantial investment that speaks to the network’s commitment to bringing the NBA back to its airwaves.
When NBC initially announced its new deal, the network proclaimed that “Roundball Rock” would be making its return.
However, it appears that NBC may have spoken prematurely, as the licensing rights to the theme song have not yet been secured. According to a report from CNBC’s Alex Sherman, NBC is still negotiating with John Tesh for the rights to use “Roundball Rock,” with the sticking point being the substantial sum Tesh is seeking for the rights.
While there is still ample time for NBC and Tesh to come to an agreement before the NBA season kicks off, there is also a potential twist that could complicate matters.
Tesh is reportedly considering selling the rights to a venture capitalist firm, which would undoubtedly seek to maximize the value of the iconic tune. Such a move could make negotiations even more challenging for NBC, as they would then have to deal with a firm that may be more focused on profit than nostalgia.
The potential absence of “Roundball Rock” is certainly disappointing for longtime NBA fans who were eager for the full nostalgia of NBA on NBC’s return. The theme song holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it evokes memories of classic NBA moments and some of the greatest players to ever play the game.
However, while the song’s presence would add a significant layer of nostalgia, it’s not a make-or-break element for the broadcast itself. NBC is still planning to deliver top-tier coverage, and the excitement of having NBA games back on the network will still be a major draw for fans.
That said, it’s clear that NBC recognizes the significance of “Roundball Rock” to its audience. By prematurely announcing its return, the network inadvertently tipped its hand, showing just how much they understand the song’s value. Now, the ball is in John Tesh’s court, and he seems to hold most of the leverage in these negotiations.
According to Sherman, a source at NBC has expressed confidence that a deal will ultimately be reached, and the current standoff will end in time for the start of the season. For now, fans will have to wait and see if the iconic tune will indeed make its triumphant return.
Regardless of the outcome, the excitement surrounding NBC’s renewed involvement in NBA broadcasting is palpable, and it will be fascinating to see how the network reimagines its coverage for a new generation of fans.
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