Nine and the National Basketball League (NBL) have announced an exciting partnership that will see the NBL become accessible to a wider Australian audience beginning in 2026. This significant agreement grants fans the opportunity to watch two free NBL games each week on the 9Network, enhancing the profile of Australia’s premier men’s professional basketball league.
Under this two-year arrangement, a selection of major matches will be showcased on Channel 9, providing fans with live basketball coverage. This initiative builds on the NBL’s recent successes in attendance, digital engagement, and free-to-air viewership, reinforcing its reputation as the fastest-growing sporting league in Australia.
In addition to live games, Nine’s NBL offerings will complement their coverage of the WNBL as both men’s and women’s basketball prepare for the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, where the Boomers and Opals will represent Australia on the world stage.
Key broadcast details for the 2026/27 NBL season include:
- Two Major Games per Week: Broadcast live and free on the 9Network and 9Now every Saturday night.
- NBL Overtime: A dedicated weekly show featuring match analysis, highlights, and exclusive content.
- 9Now Integration: An NBL hub offering highlights, classic games, and on-demand content.
- Comprehensive Coverage: In-depth news and insights across Nine’s digital and broadcast platforms.
Brent Williams, Nine’s Director of Sport, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the NBL’s rapid growth and the heightened fan engagement that this collaboration will foster. He stated, "The NBL is one of Australia’s most engaging sports competitions, and we’re thrilled to integrate NBL content into Nine’s sports offerings."
NBL Group CEO David Stevenson also shared his excitement about the collaboration, recognising its potential to expand the league’s reach and accessibility. He emphasised the importance of making two weekly live games available for free, branding it as a substantial win for fans and a pivotal opportunity for the growth of basketball in Australia.
The complete schedule for the NBL 2026/2027 season, detailing specific match-ups and broadcast times, is expected to be announced later this year.