Under the plans, the NBA will negotiate contracts for its member teams so they can stream live games to targeted local online audiences this autumn. Details are still unclear; but in theory, Boston residents would be able to watch the Boston Celtics game on the team's web site. The NBA is expected to employ geo-targeting technology to block out-of-market visitors to the site.
Bill Koenig, executive vice president of business affairs, told the industry publication: "We hope to have a model in place this season. Our opening up of the rights will certainly be done."
It is still unclear whether the games will be streamed for free, with advertisements, or even on which sites they would be shown. The NBA is also dealing with rights issues and potential pushback from regional sports networks.
