Core Viewpoint - The NBA is entering a new era of increased costs for fans to watch games due to a significant new broadcasting deal, making it more challenging and expensive to access live games [6][11]. Group 1: Broadcasting Deal - The NBA has signed an 11-year national television deal worth $76 billion with Walt Disney Company, NBC Universal, and Amazon, starting next season [6][7]. - This new deal replaces a previous nine-year agreement valued at $24 billion, indicating a substantial increase in the league's broadcasting revenue [7]. Group 2: Cost of Watching Games - Fans will need to subscribe to multiple streaming services, with a minimum cost of $54 per month for access to NBC/Peacock, Disney/ESPN, and Amazon Prime Video [7]. - For those using YouTube TV, the total cost can reach $107 per month when including additional subscriptions for Peacock and Amazon Prime [8]. - While this may be cheaper than traditional cable packages, which average around $147 per month, it still represents a significant increase in costs for fans [9]. Group 3: NBA League Pass Limitations - The NBA League Pass, priced at $17, allows fans to watch out-of-market games but has restrictions, such as a three-hour delay for nationally televised games and a three-day delay for local games [9][10]. - These limitations make the League Pass less appealing for casual fans who wish to watch games live [10]. Group 4: Fan Experience and Commissioner’s Response - Commissioner Adam Silver has downplayed the rising costs, suggesting that fans can still enjoy free highlights on social media platforms, labeling the NBA as a "highlight sport" [11]. - This messaging has been met with criticism from fans who feel that the accessibility of the sport is diminishing despite its business nature [11].