The NBA and YouTube announced a partnership that makes YouTube TV the first-ever presenting sponsor of the NBA Finals. The agreement also positions YouTube TV as the presenting sponsor of the WNBA Finals and the G League.
Throughout the partnership, a “The Finals presented by YouTube TV” logo will be featured prominently during all Finals games, including on-court and throughout the arena. Additionally, YouTube TV will be featured in ABC commercials and in-game call outs, along with having a major presence across the NBA’s digital and social media assets.
“Our presenting partnership of The Finals marks another first in our longstanding and innovative history with YouTube,” said NBA senior vice president of global media and business development Dan Rossomondo.
“The NBA Finals on ABC, as well as the WNBA Finals and NBA G League Finals, are pinnacle events, and with YouTube TV we are excited to provide fans with new ways to experience the excitement of these championship series.”
During the 2018 NBA Finals, which begins Thursday, May 31, fans will have access to ABC and every game through YouTube TV, which is available in nearly 100 of the top markets, covering more than 85 percent of U.S. households.
“Partnering with the NBA is a slam dunk for YouTube TV members, with more basketball content and the first-ever presenting partner of the NBA Finals,” said global head of YouTube TV & originals marketing Angela Courtin.
“YouTube TV was built for fans, and we are excited to bring to life our cable-free live TV service during one of the most watched sports events of the year.”
Earlier this month, the NBA expanded its relationship with YouTube with the addition of NBA TV at no additional cost for YouTube TV subscribers that have the base package. In the coming months, NBA League Pass will be available for YouTube TV members for an extra fee.
Similar to what the NBA and YouTube have done, Major League Baseball recently struck a similar agreement with the streaming service for the World Series.