After a 23-year absence, NBC is making a grand return to NBA broadcasting tonight. The network’s coverage kicks off with an exciting doubleheader featuring two key matchups: the Oklahoma City Thunder against the Houston Rockets at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Golden State Warriors squaring off with the Los Angeles Lakers at 10 p.m. ET.
Significant Details of NBC’s NBA Return
This comeback marks the beginning of an 11-year contract between NBC and the NBA. Throughout the 2025-26 season, NBC and its streaming service Peacock will broadcast:
- 100 regular-season games.
- A substantial number of playoff games, including the Western Conference Finals.
- Monday night exclusive games on Peacock.
- Tuesday night doubleheaders on NBC/Peacock.
- Sunday Night Basketball on NBC starting in January after NFL.
Broadcast Team and Coverage
Leading the coverage is play-by-play announcer Mike Tirico, joined by analysts Reggie Miller and Jamal Crawford. The secondary team consists of Noah Eagle and Grant Hill. Other notable broadcasters include:
- Play-by-play announcers: Michael Grady, Terry Gannon, Mark Followill.
- Analysts: Austin Rivers, Robbie Hummel, Brad Daugherty, Derek Fisher, Brian Scalabrine.
- Sideline reporters: Zora Stephenson, Ashley ShahAhmadi, Jordan Cornette.
- Studio hosts: Maria Taylor and Ahmed Fareed.
- Studio analysts: Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady.
Special Contributor Michael Jordan
One of the most notable highlights of this season is NBC’s inclusion of Michael Jordan as a “special contributor.” During a promotional announcement, Tirico mentioned that viewers can look forward to interviews with Jordan during the doubleheader.
Classic Theme Music Returns
Adding to the nostalgia, the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme song, composed by John Tesh, will return to accompany NBC’s broadcasts. This classic piece of music evokes memories of the league’s previous years on NBC.
As the NBA season starts, sports fans are eager for the thrilling matchups and the unique storytelling that NBC aims to provide. With a strong team in place and exciting formats for weekly games, the network’s return promises to enhance the NBA viewing experience.
