Al Michaels Rules Out NBA Return With Amazon, Eyes NFL Future
Al Michaels, the iconic voice of “Thursday Night Football” on Amazon Prime Video, has ruled out a return to NBA broadcasting when the tech giant begins airing games in 2025. While Michaels expressed his enjoyment of the sport, he feels his commitment to NFL coverage and desire to allow Amazon to establish a long-term commentary team make a return unlikely. "I don’t think so. It’s a long-term thing for Amazon, and they should put a group together that can do this for a lot of years and build. I’m sure that’s what they’re going to do. I love doing the NBA but that was a long time ago and I’m happy just to spectate next year and beyond," Michaels said in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.
Key Takeaways:
- Michaels is stepping away from NBA broadcasting, despite his past experience and the upcoming Amazon streaming rights deal.
- He believes Amazon should build a long-term team for NBA coverage, not rely on his 79-year-old presence.
- Michaels’ contract with Amazon for "Thursday Night Football" expires at the end of the current NFL season – his future with the platform remains uncertain.
Amazon’s NBA Ambition
Michaels’ comments spark curiosity about Amazon’s plans for its NBA coverage. The tech giant entered the world of sports broadcasting with their $1.8 billion, 11-year deal with the NBA, signaling a serious investment in the sport. Their experience with “Thursday Night Football” has already garnered some attention, with their "TNF" team reportedly proving attractive to NBA owners seeking a platform for their games.
Building a Team for the Future
Michaels’ reluctance to return to the NBA reflects a shift in how broadcasters approach long-term contracts in sports. Amazon, having established a successful presence in NFL coverage, seems determined to follow a similar strategy for the NBA – building a team capable of providing consistent, high-quality commentary for years to come. This strategy involves developing and nurturing broadcasters, potentially creating a new generation of commentators who can become synonymous with the Amazon NBA experience.
Speculation Around Amazon’s NBA Lineup
The absence of Michaels’ voice in the NBA booth leaves the door open for a range of possibilities. Amazon could opt for seasoned basketball commentators with extensive experience, attracting a veteran duo familiar with the nuances of the game. On the other hand, they might choose to invest in rising talent, potentially drawing from college basketball commentators known for their analytical skills and fresh perspectives.
The Potential Impact of Michaels’ Decision
Michaels’ decision to focus on his NFL career with Amazon has significant implications for the streaming giant’s NBA ambitions. His departure from the booth could potentially encourage a shift away from relying on established names to building a brand new identity for their basketball coverage. This could involve incorporating interactive features, innovative camera angles, and unique on-air personalities, creating a distinctly different presentation compared to traditional NBA broadcasts.
Beyond the Commentary Booth:
While Michaels’ absence might leave a void in the commentary booth, his influence on Amazon’s NBA strategy will likely extend beyond the court. His experience and expertise could be valuable assets in shaping the overall presentation of the NBA games on Prime Video. Michaels’ role in shaping "Thursday Night Football" – from commentary style to overall presentation – might very well be reflected in the eventual look and feel of Amazon’s NBA broadcasts, regardless of whether he is calling the shots.
A Legacy Beyond the Microphone:
Al Michaels has become a household name in the world of sports broadcasting, renowned for his compelling narratives and ability to connect with audiences. Although he might not be calling NBA games, his contributions to the sport will continue to resonate, particularly given his involvement in shaping Amazon’s approach to sports coverage. His decision to prioritize his NFL commitment with Amazon reflects a natural evolution for a seasoned broadcaster, while providing an opportunity for the streaming giant to establish a distinct and impactful presence in the NBA.
