Warner Bros. Discovery to Launch Sports Tier on Max Streaming Service
According to sources, Warner Bros. Discovery plans to introduce a sports tier on its Max streaming service, with a targeted debut during the Major League Baseball playoffs. The new tier will feature simulcasts of games from various sports leagues, including MLB, NBA, NHL, and NCAA, along with content from Bleacher Report. The company aims to attract a younger audience that prefers digital sports brands like Bleacher Report over traditional pay-TV bundles. Warner Bros. Discovery executives have hinted at higher pricing for the sports tier, acknowledging the premium value of sports content.
Simulcasting MLB Playoff Games on Max
As part of the sports tier offering, discussions are underway to simulcast MLB playoff games on both TBS and Max. However, no MLB games will be exclusively available on Max. The MLB playoffs are scheduled to begin on October 3.
Inclusion of NBA Games
Warner Bros. Discovery has also been in talks with the NBA to potentially simulcast games on Max. The arrangement being discussed would involve only games airing on the TNT cable network. Exclusive NBA games on Max, if any, would likely be part of the NBA’s rights renewal agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery, beginning next year at the earliest. The NBA currently has an exclusive negotiation window with Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery for new TV rights, which concludes in April 2024.
Pricing for the sports tier on Max has not been finalized yet, but it is expected to be offered at an additional cost. Presently, Max is priced at $15.99 per month without ads or $9.99 per month with commercials. Warner Bros. Discovery has not provided any official comments on these developments.
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