Amazon Prime Video has entered the NBA broadcasting landscape, marking a significant development in sports media rights. As of this Friday, the platform will exclusively air select NBA games, beginning with a matchup featuring the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.
Prime Video NBA Debuts
The Boston Celtics will face off against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, with the game scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Following this exciting rivalry, the Minnesota Timberwolves will take on the Los Angeles Lakers at 10 p.m. ET. Both games highlight the new era of NBA broadcasting on Prime Video.
New Broadcasting Partners
This marks the first time since 2002 that the NBA has secured new broadcast partners. In addition to Prime Video, networks like NBC and Peacock will also join the lineup. This change aims to increase the league’s reach while introducing new technology and data that enhance viewer experience.
Prime has enlisted prominent announcers for its broadcasts. Ian Eagle and Kevin Harlan will lead the play-by-play coverage. They will be joined by analysts such as Dwyane Wade, Steve Nash, and Candace Parker, among others.
Celtics vs. Knicks: A Renewed Rivalry
- Celtics Record: 0-1
- Knicks Record: 1-0
Last season, the Knicks bested the Celtics in a playoff matchup, which marked an emotional victory for New York. The Knicks are coached by Mike Brown, who succeeded Tom Thibodeau after a search following the 2022-2023 season.
The Knicks feature All-Star players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, promising an exciting matchup against a Celtics team still without star Jayson Tatum, who is recovering from an Achilles injury. New additions to the Celtics include Anfernee Simons, enhancing their scoring options.
Timberwolves vs. Lakers: Spotlight on Young Stars
- Timberwolves Record: 1-0
- Lakers Record: 0-1
The late game showcases a duel between two rising stars, Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves and Luka Dončić of the Lakers. Edwards is coming off a stellar performance, while Dončić seeks to carry the Lakers forward in the absence of LeBron James, who is sidelined due to sciatica.
Both games of this NBA debut on Prime Video are expected to draw significant viewership and showcase the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting. Fans can expect new features, including advanced statistics and analytics, enhancing their viewing experience throughout the season.
