Fubo has emerged as a late contender to secure local media rights for 13 NBA teams following their recent split from Main Street Sports Group, according to a report by Sports Business Journal.
The streaming platform, backed by Disney, has approached franchises including the Hawks, Hornets, Cavaliers, Pistons, Pacers, Clippers, Grizzlies, Heat, Bucks, Timberwolves, Thunder, Magic and Spurs.
Its proposal centers on a hybrid model that blends traditional distribution with direct-to-consumer streaming, with projected rights fees hovering around $10 million per team.
According to SBJ, Fubo’s pitch developed quickly and has gained traction among several teams evaluating their next move in a shifting regional sports network landscape. Reportedly, the Fubo’s entrance into negotiations was unexpected but is now under serious consideration by multiple franchises.
Teams had been weighing offers from other outlets such as DAZN and Victory+, while also exploring over-the-air partnerships with broadcast groups like Gray Television, E. W. Scripps Company and Nexstar Media Group. Many have also considered pairing linear distribution with direct-to-consumer platforms.
However, Fubo’s proposal introduces a different path. The company is seeking to aggregate a majority of the 13 teams into a short-term regional sports network (RSN) structure. That would allow Fubo to negotiate carriage agreements with major cable distributors like Comcast and Charter, while also offering a streaming package through its own platform.
If enough teams opt in, the plan would position Fubo as a potential partner for the NBA.
Fubo’s proposal also reportedly includes flexibility. Teams would retain the option to exit after one season if the NBA finalizes a centralized platform in the coming years as reported. That structure aligns with league guidance encouraging short-term deals that preserve long-term optionality.
Fubo has not commented on the reporting by SBJ.
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