From CNBC: 2024-04-30 16:10:33

NBCUniversal is making a bid to acquire NBA rights with an offer averaging $2.5 billion per year, aiming to bring back the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme song by John Tesh. The NBA seeks three media partners; Disney and Amazon are close to deals. Warner Bros. Discovery is also negotiating, but NBCUniversal’s offer surpasses the current $1.2 billion deal.

“Roundball Rock” is celebrated by nostalgic NBA fans and associated with the iconic era of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. John Tesh owns the song and is open to licensing it again, irrespective of Fox Sports’ current agreement. Media companies typically secure the song rights in three-year intervals, with Tesh receiving royalties based on usage.

NBCUniversal winning the NBA rights could mean the return of “Roundball Rock” for the 2025-26 season, bringing back a beloved piece of sports nostalgia. The song’s popularity has endured, with fans still playing and celebrating it decades after its last broadcast on NBC. John Tesh remains enthusiastic about the lasting impact and legacy of the theme song.



Read more at CNBC: NBC could buy back ‘Roundball Rock’ rights if it gets NBA games, John Tesh says