(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
The NBA and Verizon announced on Wednesday the expansion of its content and technology partnership that includes the streaming of NBA League Pass games to Oath’s Yahoo Sports, enhanced Yahoo Fantasy experiences, and the development of augmented reality experiences on Verizon’s 5G network.
NBA League Pass brings live out-of-market games to Yahoo and other Verizon media platforms, with up to eight of those games available for a free preview along with a new daily show for fans to watch. With the new Official NBA Fantasy format, fans can start their fantasy season at any time and get customized fantasy highlight packages.
NBA content will be available to fans on any wireless carrier via Yahoo Sports.
“You’ll be able to sit and watch on your iPad and your phone,” Verizon CEO Lowell McAdam said. “You’ll be able to have all your fantasy statistics right below it. You’ll be able to interact with the game. We put together a $25 million fund where we decide how we’re going to create innovative products.”
The innovation of the component of the partnership could lead to unique content as Verizon looks to grow its premium sports content offerings. For example, virtual reality and augmented reality are expected to be on display starting with the All-Star game in Los Angeles next month.
“Verizon is uniquely positioned to partner with the NBA in a first of-its-kind technology and content partnership that will serve the NBA’s dynamic fan base with more live action, fantasy and lifestyle content in addition to experiential opportunities in the U.S. and globally through Yahoo Fantasy,” Brian Angiolet, SVP, Global Chief Media and Content Officer at Verizon, said in a statement. “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, and a superior alternative for partners and advertisers.”
Added Bill Koenig, NBA President, Global Content and Media Distribution: “This expanded partnership allows us to tap into Verizon’s expansive reach and new technologies to engage our fans through a variety of innovative experiences.”
