The British Basketball League (BBL) has confirmed the renewal of its broadcasting rights agreement with Sky Sports for a fourth successive season. This extension encompasses both the men's and women's leagues, ensuring that fans will continue to enjoy comprehensive coverage of their favourite teams and players.
Under the terms of the agreement, Sky Sports will broadcast one live game per week across its linear and YouTube channels, as well as its streaming service, NOW TV. These broadcasts will take place on Thursday and Friday evenings, providing a regular slot for basketball enthusiasts to tune in.
The deal also guarantees coverage of key events in the new season's schedule. This includes the men's and women's Trophy Final, the All-Star Game, the playoffs, and the BBL final, which will be held at the iconic O2 Arena.
Mani Gill, Head of Broadcast at the BBL, said:
“The League is delighted to once again be partnering with Sky Sports for a fourth consecutive season to continue to bring the best of the action from the Men’s and Women’s Leagues to fans across the country.”
“Sky has given us a platform to help basketball grow exponentially in recent years, it’s great to have their continued support and we know fans will be thrilled with the broadcast experience they’ll enjoy this season.”
“Fans can expect the highest quality broadcast presentation throughout the season, with a star-studded line up of talent on hand to present, analyse and commentate on the thrilling on-court action from across the Men’s and Women’s League.”
In addition to the game coverage, the broadcasting deal also includes some exciting personnel news. Jeanette Kwakye MBE, a highly regarded UK broadcaster, will be part of the new production team. Kwakye's extensive experience and knowledge of the sport will undoubtedly add depth and insight to the broadcasts.
Joining Kwakye will be a team of seasoned basketball professionals. Ovie Soko, a former GB and London Lions star, will bring his on-court experience to the commentary box. Drew Lasker, an on-ground reporter, will provide up-to-the-minute updates and insights from the sidelines. Todd Harris, a seasoned play-by-play commentator, will guide viewers through the action, while Azania Stewart, a player from the women's British Basketball League, will serve as a co-commentator, offering her unique perspective as a current player.
Helen Falkus, Director of Multi Sports at Sky Sports, also gave her thoughts:
“Domestic basketball continues to go from strength to strength and so we’re delighted to be able to continue to bring our viewers more of the action from both the men’s and women’s competitions.”
“We’ll continue to showcase the Men’s and Women’s British Basketball League on our linear channels as well as YouTube as we look to continue to grow the game in the UK.”
This broadcasting deal reaffirms the growing popularity of basketball in the UK and the commitment of both the BBL and Sky Sports to promote and develop the sport. With this team of experts at the helm, fans can look forward to another exciting season of British basketball.
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