DAZN executive says company is pursuing national media rights deals in the U.S.
DAZN's CEO of growth markets told Sports Media Watch that the streaming platform is actively interested in national media rights deals in the United States, though he did not identify any specific packages. The executive suggested that building a broad enough portfolio of regional rights could effectively replicate a national presence, while also leaving the door open to pursuing more traditional national packages. DAZN is preparing to launch local NBA streaming arrangements with ten teams this season — serving as the sole local broadcast outlet for five franchises and as a streaming partner for five others — which the company views as a foundation for expanding its footprint. The NBA reportedly plans to centralize local in-market streaming rights through a dedicated hub before the 2027-28 season, a development DAZN appears to be positioning itself for.
[I]f you have enough regional coverage, you have a national feel to you, and we'll see where national rights go.
Why it matters
For brands: Sponsors and rights holders may want to monitor DAZN's U.S. growth trajectory as it moves from a combat-sports niche toward mainstream professional league coverage.
For media: DAZN's stated ambition to compete for national rights packages signals a potential new bidder that could reshape future league media deals and alter the competitive landscape for incumbent broadcasters.
Read the full story at Awful Announcing
Sources
- Awful Announcing · Drew Lerner: DAZN to target national media rights deals in U.S. market, exec says