Investing.com - YouTube remains in advanced discussions with the NBA about creating an aggregated streaming hub for local team broadcasts starting in the 2027-28 season, according to Sports Business Journal. The deal could be worth more than $1 billion depending on how many teams participate.

The NBA envisions at least 25 teams streaming local telecasts exclusively through the platform in Year 1, with the potential to expand to 29 of the league's 30 clubs. The Toronto Raptors are excluded due to an existing agreement with Rogers Communications. Some teams may initially simulcast games on the hub before joining full-time in later waves.

Sources told Sports Business Journal that if the NBA can deliver 29 teams to YouTube, the league would seek roughly $1.2 billion. The league would then distribute rights fees to individual teams based on market value, with larger markets like the Heat and Sixers receiving more than smaller markets such as the Grizzlies or Pelicans.

If only 25 teams or fewer join the aggregated hub, YouTube may offer around $850 million instead of the $1 billion-plus figure. YouTube would recoup costs through subscriptions under a likely nine-year deal, including a five-year option, that would expire when the NBA's 11-year, $77 billion national media deal ends.

The deal faces uncertainty over which teams will opt in, who controls broadcast inventory, and whether local over-the-air simulcasts will be permitted. Industry sources expect either an agreement or stalemate by this fall, which could open opportunities for DAZN, ESPN or Amazon.