NBCUniversal considers launching cable sports channel with NBA and Peacock offerings

et’s give fans an even more immersive experience. NBCUniversal is floating the idea of launching a cable sports channel that would be jam-packed with all the sports delights currently offered on Peacock, like the NBA. Even though it’s not official yet, word on the street is the channel could see the light of day as soon as this fall, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

What’s the deal with the timing, you ask? Well, it lines up perfectly with NBC’s 11-year partnership with the NBA, which is all set to kick off this fall. Not only will NBA games be hitting the airwaves on NBC, but they’ll also be available for streaming on Peacock. If the channel gets the green light, it will be included in cable and satellite packages along with other similar networks, according to the Journal.

Although NBCUniversal isn’t saying much about this potential move right now, launching a cable network might seem counterintuitive considering they’re in the process of separating many cable channels as part of a new company called Versant. What’s getting them revved up about this new venture is the proven popularity of sports in bringing in viewers, especially when traditional TV is losing some shine.

To make their NBA coverage stand out, NBCUniversal is pulling out all the stops. Think bringing on basketball legend Michael Jordan as a special contributor starting this October and setting up interactive features on Peacock to really engage basketball buffs. Looks like they’re serious about making sure fans have a top-notch experience once the NBA season gets rolling.