For most of us, NBA on NBC was one of the few stuff on television we looked forward to each and every single week, it felt like a big deal. The way they broadcast those games just hit different. From Bob Costas dropping those legendary intros, to the unforgettable theme music, to the way the games looked on TV. That whole era was peak hoops nostalgia. It wasn’t just basketball—it was a vibe, and it’s burned into every fan’s memory.
So yeah, it’s no shock everyone went nuts when the news dropped that NBA on NBC is making a comeback. And ever since that announcement, every new detail has just added to the hype. The first major W? They’re bringing back Roundball Rock. You can’t do NBA on NBC without that anthem. Like, what’s even the point if that track isn’t blasting before tip-off? That song was straight fire and iconic. It was the brand.
“It’s a thrill to announce that Roundball Rock is coming home,” Cordella said in the release. “Roundball Rock is one of the greatest pieces of theme music in sports history. Hearing it immediately conjures images of NBC Sports’ coverage of one of the golden ages of the NBA, from Magic to Michael to Kobe and many others. It was a pleasure working with John Tesh to bring Roundball Rock back to NBC, and we’re equally excited to hear its debut on Peacock. We couldn’t imagine beginning our coverage any other way.”
Another dope part of NBA on NBC back in the day was how they handled player intros. It wasn’t just some quick graphic. It felt epic, like you were watching a movie about to start. That whole setup was a huge piece of their game day vibe. And guess what? It’s making a comeback, too.
When it comes to the booth, the fact that we’re also getting a return of Mike Tirico to be the lead play by play announcer was also a homerun move. He did a Celtics game earlier this season to get some reps in and it was a fantastic experience as a viewer. They also have Noah Eagle, who was awesome during the Olympics and is turning into the same caliber of play by play as his Dad, who is of course, a HOFer. In terms of color guys they added Reggie Miller and Jamal Crawford which are solid choices (especially Crawford), as well as Carmelo Anthony to be a studio guy. That’s a pretty damn good lineup if you ask me.
Every move they’ve made with this NBA on NBC comeback has been flawless. Straight 10/10, no notes, no misses. They’re absolutely nailing the vibe.
And guess what, it gets even better…
When I think of the NBA on NBC it automatically gets to Charles Barkley, Karl Malone and….Michael Jordan.
I have no idea what it means for MJ to be a special contributor, but frankly I’m not sure it even matters. Just get him involved in any capacity and I’m in. Imagine a gambling segment run by MJ? That would be hilarious. Just the idea of having MJ break down games and give his input is enough for me personally, because you know he’s going to keep it real at all times. I have no idea if he’ll be able to do something like this, but people also said that about Tom Brady and after a few reps he continues to get better and better, so why can’t the same be true of MJ?
I’m also interested to see how he talks about this current generation. One thing that was always true of MJ when he talked about previous eras or anything like that, he showed the utmost respect. But what about the younger, more current generation? This is a guy who pretty much never does any media. When’s the last time you heard any sort of quote or soundbite from MJ? That’s what I find so interesting about this move, I have legitimately no idea what to expect.
Granted, I was already all in on this move because I, like everyone else, love nostalgia and what NBA on NBC meant for me as a kid growing up. The fact that they aren’t screwing around and are doing everything they can to make it even better this time around? Hell yeah. It’s no secret the NBA’s TV product largely stinks outside of Inside The NBA (looking at you ESPN/ABC), this might be the best thing to happen to this era of the league.
Adam Silver definitely makes a lot of bozo decisions, but so far bringing the NBA back to NBC doesn’t appear to be one of them.
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