The NBA has expanded its partnership with Verizon in a wide-ranging, multiyear agreement that will see official league content distributed on the telecom giant’s Oath portfolio of digital media brands. The agreement calls for a series of highlights and original programming, including a daily morning show on Yahoo Sports that will include highlights and commentary, access to sample and purchase NBA League Pass on Yahoo Sports and Verizon, and the development of augmented reality content through L.A.-based video company Ryot Corp., another Verizon holding. The deal expands significantly upon a prior deal the NBA struck with Verizon in ’15 to distribute content through the carrier’s mobile-oriented go90 video streaming app. Renewal talks began to take on a new complexion after Verizon’s purchase last year of Yahoo, which it merged with AOL to create Oath. “We’re always interested in expanding our reach as much as possible. But this deal is also about pushing forward with regard to innovation,” said NBA President of Global Content & Media Distribution Bill Koenig. The two sides will collaborate on alternative game presentations, similar to what the league has done with its mobile-specific camera angle for NBA League Pass and its ongoing work with Twitch for the G League. The strategy fits in with the NBA’s desire to create unique ways for viewers to watch NBA games. Financial terms were not disclosed, but a source said the deal is expected to be a three-year agreement. The new Verizon agreement contains a sizable fantasy component that will include customized fantasy highlight packages and the development of new fantasy basketball games. “With the addition of live NBA games, highlights, classic footage, originals and more to our mobile sports offering, Yahoo Sports and Verizon’s family of media brands are becoming the first screen for fans of live sports,” said Verizon Senior VP and Global Chief Media & Content Officer Brian Angiolet. Koenig and Angiolet were responsible for finalizing the deal.
