The iconic tune of “Roundball Rock,” composed by John Tesh, could potentially make a comeback if NBCUniversal secures the rights to air NBA games once again. Following a loss to Disney 22 years ago, NBCUniversal has made an offer averaging $2.5 billion per year for the NBA rights. This offer more than doubles the current amount paid by Warner Bros. Discovery, the current rights holder. However, Warner Bros. Discovery’s financial discipline under CEO David Zaslav could potentially hinder their ability to match NBCUniversal’s offer.
Media Partners for the NBA
The NBA is seeking three media partners for its broadcasts, with deals close to being finalized with Disney and Amazon. The third package is likely to go to either Warner Bros. Discovery or NBCUniversal, but not both. Warner Bros. Discovery is still in talks with the league to retain the rights while facing a tough decision due to financial considerations. NBCUniversal’s bid reflects its willingness to invest in the NBA and bring back the nostalgia associated with “The NBA on NBC.”
“Roundball Rock” is synonymous with NBA games on NBC and is deeply ingrained in the memories of nostalgic fans. The theme song, created by John Tesh, has been ranked as the greatest sports TV theme by USA Today and has been the subject of various articles and sketches. Despite not being used for NBA games since 2002, the song’s popularity remains strong, with Fox Sports acquiring the rights for college basketball use in 2018-19. However, the true essence of “Roundball Rock” lies in its association with the golden era of NBA basketball and iconic personalities like Michael Jordan.
Should NBCUniversal regain the rights to air NBA games, the possibility of licensing “Roundball Rock” from John Tesh is on the table. Tesh, as the owner of the song, has expressed his willingness to allow NBCUniversal to use the tune for their broadcasts. While Fox Sports currently holds the rights for college basketball, there is no exclusivity preventing other media companies from using the song for NBA games. The enduring appeal of “Roundball Rock” is a testament to its timeless quality and place in basketball history.
As negotiations continue between NBCUniversal, Warner Bros. Discovery, and the NBA, the fate of “Roundball Rock” hangs in the balance. Should NBCUniversal emerge as the victor, fans can look forward to hearing the iconic tune once again during NBA broadcasts. The legacy of “Roundball Rock” transcends generations, serving as a reminder of the golden age of NBA basketball and the magic of television sports themes. The future of the NBA on NBC holds the promise of bringing back a beloved piece of music that has stood the test of time.