When does NBA on NBC start? Theme song, broadcast team and more for 2025-26
By Sanjesh Singh
The 2025 basketball season will see something different — something that hasn't been seen since the early 2000s.
NBA on NBC is coming back to television screens and introducing itself to streaming platforms beginning with the 2025-26 league campaign.
A popular theme song is also returning, alongside a new broadcasting team comprised of veteran commentators and former NBA stars.
Here's everything to know about NBA on NBC for the upcoming season:
Ever feel like EVERYONE has that one song stuck in their head? 🏀
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) May 3, 2025
The NBA on NBC and Peacock – coming this fall! pic.twitter.com/gpKMXlklFg
When does NBA on NBC start?
NBA on NBC is back beginning with the 2025-26 NBA season, kicking off Tuesday, Oct. 21, with a doubleheader.
When does the 2025-26 NBA season start?
The 2025-26 season, the 80th in league history, has a regular-season start date of Tuesday, Oct. 21.
What is NBC's history with the NBA?
The NBA and NBC had their first partnership from 1954 to 1962, before returning in 1990 to 2002 amid Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls' dynasty. NBC is part of the new media rights deal with the NBA that will last for 11 years, including games being streamed on Peacock.
What is the NBA on NBC theme song?
Fans can rejoice knowing "Roundball Rock," the hit theme song for NBA on NBC produced by John Tesh, is returning.
Who is on the NBA on NBC broadcasting team?
Here's a list of the commentators and former NBA stars who have joined NBC Sports' broadcasting team thus far:
Play-by-play: Mike Tirico, Noah Eagle, Terry Gannon, Michael Grady
Color analysts: Jamal Crawford, Reggie Miller, Grant Hill, Brad Daugherty, Derek Fisher, Robbie Hummel, Austin Rivers, Brian Scalabrine
Studio hosts: Maria Taylor, Ahmed Fareed
Studio analysts: Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady
Special contributor: Michael Jordan
Who will broadcast NBA games in 2025-26?
Along with NBA on NBC and Peacock in the new media rights deal, ESPN and ABC will continue their coverage of the league, while Amazon Prime Video will be starting its new streaming partnership.
