Fubo Surprises 13 NBA Teams with Bold New Proposal
Multiple industry sources told Filmogaz.com that Fubo emerged late as a suitor for 13 NBA teams that left Main Street Sports Group. The proposal uses a hybrid direct-to-distributor and direct-to-consumer model. Reported rights fees hover around $10 million, sometimes slightly above or below that mark.
The move represents a bold new proposal from Fubo, and it has surprised 13 NBA teams. Teams are weighing the offer alongside other suitors and distribution paths.
Which teams are involved
- Atlanta Hawks
- Charlotte Hornets
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Detroit Pistons
- Indiana Pacers
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Miami Heat
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Orlando Magic
- San Antonio Spurs
Fubo’s pitch to the teams
Sources described a three-part strategy offered to the teams. The plan hinges on aggregating a majority of those 13 franchises.
- Fubo would seek aggregated rights to negotiate linear distribution deals. Potential partners include Comcast and Charter. The company is discouraging local OTA channel routes, though those remain possible.
- Fubo would stream games on its own digital platform. The company hopes this will position it as a candidate to house a national NBA RSN later.
- The deal would include a one-time opt-out if the NBA launches a national platform. Teams exercising that option would repay a portion of their rights fees.
Rights fees and distribution details
Industry sources reported proposed rights fees near $10 million per team. Offers have reportedly floated above and below that figure.
Fubo’s blueprint combines broad distributor deals with a direct-to-consumer package and advertising revenue. Disney is reported to own roughly 70% of the streaming service.
Timing and league negotiations
Several sources said team decisions could solidify as soon as Friday. The NBA hopes to know whether Amazon or YouTube TV will bid to house a national RSN for the 2026-27 season.
If Amazon and YouTube TV hesitate, the league may push the national launch to 2027-28. The league reportedly seeks assurance that about 20 teams will opt into any aggregated offering.
An NBA spokesperson denied that a Friday deadline exists. Multiple teams, however, believe they can start signing new linear and streaming deals next week.
Other suitors and market reaction
Teams have also considered offers from DAZN and Victory+. Some are exploring over-the-air deals with Gray, Scripps, or Nexstar. Nexstar recently acquired Tegna.
Clubs are evaluating simultaneous DTC solutions from providers like ViewLift and Kiswe. Sources say Victory+ may be provisionally poised to sign as many as three teams, dependent on financing.
Industry contacts added that many markets remain unfamiliar with DAZN and Victory+. That uncertainty has made some teams cautious about committing.
Responses and next steps
Fubo declined comment on Wednesday. Sources said the service “came out of nowhere” for several teams.
If too few teams join the aggregated effort, Fubo may abandon the plan. The next week could determine whether an interim RSN appears for the coming season.
