Jeff Bezos is further expanding his footprint in sports broadcasting. Following Amazon Prime’s acquisition of Thursday Night Football in 2020, it seems the platform is now venturing into NBA coverage. According to the New York Post, Amazon is nearing a deal to broadcast games for 12 NBA teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, on Amazon Prime.
The agreement would bring Bucks games to Amazon Prime, with fans needing to pay $20 per month to stream all non-nationally televised games. If finalized in time, the service could launch next month in conjunction with the start of the NBA season. Although Amazon would handle streaming, games will still be available on cable through Diamond and Bally Sports. This deal adds to Amazon’s existing eleven-year contract with the NBA, which includes broadcasting 66 nationally televised games starting in the 2025–26 season.
Recently, Amazon withdrew from a $115 million investment offer in Diamond but continued negotiations. The specifics of the new deal are not yet clear, and it is not exclusive, meaning Diamond could pursue similar agreements with other platforms. This arrangement aims to support Diamond, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March 2023, by potentially finding additional partners like YouTube TV or other streaming services by November.
The other 11 NBA teams involved in this deal are the Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timber wolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs. Additionally, Amazon will secure broadcasting rights for five MLB teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, and nine NHL teams.
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