NBL launches new live streaming platform

Australia’s National Basketball League has launched a new online streaming service that will provide every game live from its 2016-17 season.

NBL TV was developed in association with telecommunications firm Telstra, and will be available on mobile, tablet, desktop and television, as well as having the ability to push content to large screens. Along with every 2016-17 season game live, NBL TV will also offer classic games on demand.

Full season ticketholders of Australian NBL clubs will be given a free All Access Pass for the 2016-17 season with all games available. Fans of a particular club who are not full season ticket holders will be able to watch their nominated team at home and on the road for free.

The retail price for All Access NBL TV is A$5 (€3/$4) per month, which entitles users to all content, live and on-demand. The NBL said further special offers will be released in the coming weeks.

NBL general manager Jeremy Loeliger said the ability to watch the games on any size screen had been a key factor in the decision to launch the platform. He added: “To ensure that it is a premium sports viewing experience we know people want to be able to watch on a larger screen than just being restricted to their mobiles and tablets.

“We have made significant improvements to our production and streaming products and we are confident our fans will be impressed by our new and improved NBL TV product.”

The service will initially be restricted to the Australian market. The NBL also has a New Zealand-based franchise in the shape of the Breakers, but the Stuff.co.nz website said ongoing talks over a broadcast rights deal with pay-television operator Sky New Zealand means NBL TV will be only available in Australia for now.