Full Breakdown
NBA's 2025-26 Season: A New Era of Broadcasting and Coverage
10/15/2025, 6:16:26 AM
Transition to New Broadcasting Partners
The 2025-26 NBA season marks a significant shift in how fans will access games and coverage, as the league introduces new broadcasting partners for the first time since 2002. Cable network TNT has been replaced by subscription services Amazon Prime Video and Peacock, expanding the NBA's reach but also complicating the viewing experience for fans. This transition comes alongside the continuation of the beloved studio show "Inside the NBA," which will now air on ESPN and ABC, produced by TNT Sports.
Inside the NBA's New Home
"Inside the NBA," featuring hosts Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith, will debut on ESPN on October 22, 2025. The show will serve as the pregame, halftime, and postgame coverage for marquee games, including Christmas Day and Saturday primetime games on ABC. ESPN's president of content, Burke Magnus, emphasized the importance of maintaining the show's unique personality, stating, “We’re proud that Inside the NBA – one of the most iconic and beloved shows in all of media – will play a leading role in our NBA coverage.”
Concerns and Assurances from the Hosts
Despite the excitement surrounding the move, there are concerns from the show's hosts about potential changes to its format. Charles Barkley expressed skepticism regarding time constraints and the possibility of being rushed off the air for SportsCenter. However, he reassured fans that the show would not be forced to cut its discussions short, stating, “They said they’re not going to make us throw it to the local affiliates when we’re on ABC.” Shaquille O'Neal also indicated that the team would continue to produce additional specials beyond the regular broadcasts to maintain their signature style.
The Oklahoma City Thunder's Championship Defense
As the season begins, the Oklahoma City Thunder, coming off their NBA Finals victory, aim to defend their title. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who achieved a historic triple crown by winning the scoring title, MVP, and Finals MVP in the same season, the Thunder's roster remains largely unchanged. They are favored to repeat as champions, with BetMGM giving them the shortest odds at +250 to win the 2026 NBA Finals.
Rising Costs and Viewing Options
The new broadcasting landscape has raised concerns about the cost of watching NBA games. Fans will need to navigate multiple platforms, including Fubo, Hulu Live TV, and NBA League Pass, with average monthly costs ranging from $85 to $100. The NBA's new streaming strategy aims to provide a comprehensive viewing experience, but it also introduces complexities that may frustrate some fans.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for the NBA
The 2025-26 NBA season represents a pivotal moment for the league, with significant changes in broadcasting and coverage. As fans adjust to the new landscape, the commitment to preserving the essence of shows like "Inside the NBA" remains a priority. With the Thunder looking to defend their title and new teams like the Houston Rockets, featuring Kevin Durant, aiming for contention, the season promises to be both exciting and challenging for fans navigating the evolving media landscape.
