Verizon this week took another step in its efforts to become a leader in mobile sports programming by extending its partnership with the National Basketball Association.
The deal, which is reportedly a two-year pact, will make out-of-market games on NBA League Pass available on Yahoo Sports and other Verizon platforms to customers on any wireless carrier.
In addition, the carrier and league plan to produce highlights packages and other original programming, as well as explore “innovative collaborations” beginning with the NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles next month.
Officials said a technology fund would examine new augmented reality and virtual reality experiences for NBA fans.
Financial details were not disclosed.
“Verizon is uniquely positioned to partner with the NBA in a first of-its-kind technology and content partnership that will serve the NBA’s dynamic fan base with more live action, fantasy and lifestyle content in addition to experiential opportunities in the U.S. and globally through Yahoo Fantasy,” Verizon SVP Brian Angiolet said in a statement.
Verizon has signaled its intention to bolster its mobile advertising with help from streaming live sporting events.
The NBA deal follows a five-year, $2.25 billion deal with the NFL signed last month, and Reuters noted that Verizon also has agreements with the networks that broadcast the National Women’s Soccer League and Mexican soccer league Liga MX.