NBA Fans Are Furious About Losing TNT, But They’re Fired Up About One Unexpected Pro To The Network Shake-Up

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NBA Fans Are Furious About Losing TNT, But They're Fired Up About One Unexpected Pro To The Network Shake-Up

As a long-time NBA fan and avid viewer of Inside the NBA on TNT, I was initially disappointed to hear that the league was leaving the network after the 2023-2024 season. The chemistry between Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson has always been a highlight of my basketball-watching experience. However, news of the NBA’s return to NBC in 2025 brought with it a welcome surprise – the iconic “Roundball Rock” theme would once again accompany games on the network.

Approximately two months after rumors emerged suggesting the NBA might leave TNT for other media platforms, sparking backlash from Charles Barkley and his Inside the NBA colleagues, the league officially announced a significant new deal. Beginning in 2025, NBA games will be shown on NBC and with a Peacock subscription, as well as on ESPN and with an Amazon Prime membership. While disappointing for those who had hoped TNT would continue its partnership with the NBA, there’s an exciting alternative to look forward to.

Starting in 2025, the NBA will be back on NBC with beloved sports themes, including John Tesh’s timeless “Roundball Rock” instrumental. Originally featured during NBC’s broadcast of over 3,000 games between 1990 and 2002, this iconic theme takes you on a nostalgic journey. Revisit the enchantment in the video below as we blend yesterday’s charm with today’s modern presentation.

Growing up, I was always a huge fan of both comic books and video games. So when I heard this new theme song, it instantly transported me back to my childhood. It’s got that same sense of excitement and energy that the X-Men ’97 theme had, but with an added layer of timeless appeal. The beats are catchy and loop-worthy, reminiscent of classic themes from Mario and Sonic games. And let me tell you, nothing beats the technical sophistication of this theme over any basketball video game themes I’ve heard. It truly is the NBA jam for a new generation.

Instead of merely announcing the song’s release on Twitter, NBC Sports verified that it would once again play during their broadcasts. Fans were thrilled beyond measure by the news that “Roundball Rock” was making a comeback. Here are some fan reactions to get you started, beginning with Triumph the Insult Comic Dog expressing his own enthusiasm.

I’ve been deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Bill Walton, Dick Enberg, and Steve Jones, three iconic figures who left indelible marks on their respective fields and in my life.

  • Thinking about some late, great legends from the original NBA on NBC. I’m as excited as anyone to have Roundball Rock open up an NBA broadcast, but I sure will miss some of the voices that welcomed everyone to the game as that song faded out. – @NBACobwebs
  • If they end up using Roundball Rock with WNBA games, you’ll see a VERY happy Maggie. Like dancing on press row. OK EVEN MORE dancing on press row Maggie – @maggiehendricks
  • My god the 90s kids are in charge at NBC and they re-mastered “Roundball Rock” by John Tesh… I am an NBA Jam remake and Yomega Brain Yo-Yo away from being cool again. Somebody get me a Crystal Pepsi, and while you’re at it, bring your pogs. – @JaredTheCoach
  • I have already watched this video 3 times. I cannot wait to hear Roundball Rock on my TV set again. Hell yeah. – @kevo408
  • Roundball Rock is objectively the greatest sports music theme ever created. Cannot wait for it to be back on NBC – wxblakeharms
  • I’ve grown used to “Roundball Rock” on Fox Big East games over the last several years, but having it back with the NBA on NBC just feels right. – @BBaranowski

In my opinion, this post could rightfully be crowned the greatest of all time, especially since it includes a live rendition of the iconic theme by John Tesh himself.

I once had an unforgettable moment as a gamer when John Tesh created the iconic “Roundball Rock” tune. One night, I was deep in slumber when suddenly, I was jolted awake by this catchy melody playing in my head. I quickly grabbed my phone and recorded it, acting as my own answering machine. With a sense of urgency, I sent the recording to myself.

As an assistant gamer, I’m excited to share that next season, I’ll once again join millions of NBA fans in grooving to the music when the 2025-2026 games kick off on NBC, Peacock, ESPN, and Amazon. However, before we reach that point, there’s another year of NBA action on TNT scheduled for our TV screens in 2024.

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2024-07-26 04:07