Media Broadcasters Partner to Deliver NBA Games Through Traditional TV and Streaming
Nexstar Media Group and DAZN have agreed to simultaneously broadcast 15 Indiana Pacers regular season games across multiple television stations and the DAZN streaming platform at no cost to viewers. The partnership begins October 23 with coverage airing on CBS, FOX, and other affiliated stations across Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Kentucky. The deal combines traditional television distribution with digital streaming to expand fan access to NBA basketball.
Nexstar Media Group and DAZN are combining their distribution capabilities to make selected Pacers games available to regional audiences without subscription fees. The arrangement covers 15 games starting in late October, with broadcasts appearing on multiple network affiliates serving a four-state region encompassing Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Kentucky. Nexstar plans to expand station participation throughout the season as additional outlets join the initiative.
The partnership reflects a broader industry shift toward hybrid distribution models. While 15 games receive free broadcast and streaming access, the remaining portion of the Pacers' schedule will continue to require DAZN's paid subscription service, allowing both organizations to balance accessibility with revenue generation. This approach enables traditional local television stations to retain relevance in an increasingly digital media landscape.
This arrangement may influence how professional sports leagues balance content accessibility with monetization in competitive streaming markets. Regional fans gain expanded viewing options without additional cost, potentially broadening the Pacers' audience base. Media companies benefit from cross-platform audience data and advertising opportunities. However, the selective free-to-air approach—covering only 15 of many games—suggests that subscription services remain the primary distribution channel, potentially creating a tiered access system where comprehensive coverage requires paid membership.