What's happened
NBC has announced the return of John Tesh's 'Roundball Rock' as the theme for its NBA coverage, set to begin in October 2025. The announcement was made during the Kentucky Derby broadcast, featuring current NBA stars and Tesh himself. This revival coincides with NBC's renewed broadcasting rights for the NBA.
What's behind the headline?
Nostalgic Appeal
The revival of 'Roundball Rock' taps into a deep well of nostalgia for basketball fans, evoking memories of the NBA's most iconic moments. NBC Sports president Rick Cordella emphasized the significance of the theme, stating it represents a golden age of basketball.
Strategic Timing
The timing of this announcement is strategic, aligning with NBC's broader plans for NBA coverage, including exclusive streaming on Peacock and new programming like 'Sunday Night Basketball.' This move aims to attract both long-time fans and new viewers, leveraging the emotional connection to the theme.
International Competition
Additionally, the NBA is exploring an international format for its All-Star Game, which could further enhance viewer engagement. Commissioner Adam Silver noted the appeal of featuring U.S. players against international stars, reflecting the league's global reach and the growing interest in international basketball competitions.
What the papers say
According to AP News, NBC's announcement during the Kentucky Derby featured current NBA stars and John Tesh himself, highlighting the nostalgic value of 'Roundball Rock.' The Japan Times reported on NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's comments regarding a potential international format for the All-Star Game, indicating a shift in how the league engages with its audience. Meanwhile, the NY Post discussed concerns from Mark Cuban about the increasing physicality in NBA games, suggesting a need for balance in the league's approach to gameplay.
How we got here
NBC regained NBA broadcasting rights in July 2024 after a hiatus. The network's previous coverage from 1990 to 2002 featured 'Roundball Rock,' which became synonymous with the league's golden era. The return of this theme music marks a nostalgic revival for fans.
Go deeper
- What other changes can we expect from NBC's NBA coverage?
- How will the international format affect the All-Star Game?
- What are fans saying about the return of 'Roundball Rock'?
Common question
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What is the history behind 'Roundball Rock' and its revival by NBC?
NBC has announced the return of the iconic NBA theme music 'Roundball Rock,' originally composed by John Tesh. This nostalgic revival is set to coincide with NBC's renewed broadcasting rights for the NBA, sparking interest among fans and sports enthusiasts alike. Below, we explore the history of this beloved theme, the reasons behind its revival, and what changes to expect in NBA coverage.
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