ESPN has held preliminary talks about bringing professional sports leagues on as minority investors. The NBA, MLB and NFL held talks with the media company.
Disney is considering a strategic partner for ESPN as the cable business undergoes transition.
In a statement, an NBA spokesperson said, “We have a longstanding relationship with Disney and look forward to continuing the discussions around the future of our partnership.”
The NBA and Disney have broached many potential structures around a renewal of media rights.
Disney owns 80 percent of ESPN. Hearst owns the other 20 percent.
Professional sports leagues could face conflicts of interest if they take a minority stake in ESPN.
Click here to read the full article…