Disney+ Partners with NBL Ignite Cup: What to Know

Disney+ has just been announced as the presenting partner for the exciting Hungry Jack’s NBL Ignite Cup, kicking off on October 8 as part of the National Basketball League’s 2025-26 season. This new mid-season competition will showcase 20 Wednesday night games during the regular season, leading up to a standalone Grand Final in a major city that will be revealed soon. With a total prize pool of $400,000, the Ignite Cup will mark the largest prize money in NBL history.

The collaboration with Disney+ expands The Walt Disney Company’s ongoing relationship with the NBL, specifically through ESPN on Disney+. This means that basketball fans can catch every Hungry Jack’s NBL game live in 2026, as well as all Ignite Cup matches and the NBL Finals on Disney+.

Kylie Watson-Wheeler, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Disney+ in Australia and New Zealand, and Head of ESPN Asia Pacific, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting Disney’s support for the NBL and basketball in Australia. The goal is to deliver thrilling basketball action to fans through the ESPN network on Disney+, offering a mix of premium entertainment and sports.

David Stevenson, NBL Group CEO, also emphasized the significance of the partnership in expanding the league’s reach. By teaming up with Disney+, the NBL aims to attract a larger mainstream audience than ever before, showcasing the league and its talented players on a national scale.

With a vast subscriber base in Australia and New Zealand, Disney+ is poised to help the NBL establish a stronger presence and engage fans across the region. This partnership sets the stage for increased visibility and growth for basketball in the area, aligning with the league’s mission to expand its reach and fan base.

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