A Game-Changer in the Spanish Sports Broadcasting Landscape
In a groundbreaking development, Movistar Plus+ has sealed a three-year deal to become the official broadcasting platform for EuroLeague basketball in Spain, a country steeped in basketball tradition. The telecom giant will not only air live games but also offer an array of additional programming related to the sport. This move reaffirms Movistar Plus+'s commitment to being the ultimate hub for basketball aficionados, consolidating their existing content, which includes acb and NBA.
A Triumphant Return to Basketball Dominance
After an interlude during which the rights were held by DAZN, this partnership marks Movistar Plus+'s return to European basketball broadcasting. They had previously owned the rights before the 2019-20 season. The broadcasting kicks off on October 5, with each week featuring two key matchups for subscribers to feast on.
“We are extremely pleased to welcome EuroLeague back into our sports content mix,” stated Enric Rojas, Movistar Plus+ Sports Director. “We have invested significant resources to reclaim our position as the primary go-to destination for basketball fans. Our portfolio now boasts top-tier basketball leagues, both nationally and internationally – acb, NBA, and now, EuroLeague.”
A Perfect Union: Basketball Heritage Meets Quality Broadcasting
Spain is a country where basketball is more than a sport—it's a part of the cultural fabric. It boasts four teams participating in the 2023-24 EuroLeague season, including Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, FC Barcelona, Valencia Basket, and the reigning EuroLeague champions, Real Madrid.
“This new association with Movistar Plus+ ensures that we're delivering top-notch quality to our broad and passionate fanbase in Spain,” said Paulius Motiejunas, EuroLeague Basketball CEO. “The EuroLeague brand stands for excellence, and we have found a partner that matches our ethos.”
The Streaming Wars: A Battle for Content Supremacy
The acquisition of EuroLeague by Movistar Plus+ is another indicator of how competitive the landscape of sports broadcasting has become. Industry giants are locked in an ongoing battle to secure exclusive rights for premier sporting events. With services like ESPN+ and Sky Sports already dominating various sports markets globally, Movistar Plus+ has made a strategic move to shore up its basketball content, further intensifying the streaming wars.
A Broadcast Line-up Tailored to Fans
The Telefonica-operated Movistar Plus+ aims to do more than merely broadcast basketball games. It promises a fully immersive fan experience. Starting from October 5, the service will feature every EuroLeague game involving a Spanish team. Moreover, two top matches will be highlighted each week, available to subscribers who possess the appropriate package. In addition to the live games, Movistar Plus+ will offer in-depth analysis, interviews with players, and behind-the-scenes footage that promises to engage even the most discerning basketball fans.
Strengthening an Already Robust Portfolio
The addition of EuroLeague adds another feather to Movistar Plus+'s already decorated cap. The platform, widely recognized for its quality content spanning various genres, has been making significant strides in sports broadcasting. With this new venture, the Movistar Plus+ EuroLeague collaboration is set to reach new heights, bolstering their offerings, which already include coverage of other leagues like the acb and the NBA.
What Fans Can Expect: A Deeper Dive
Basketball enthusiasts can expect more than just regular live broadcasts. Movistar Plus+ plans to offer programming that delves into the mechanics of the games, the strategies employed by coaches, the lives of the athletes off the court, and much more. This comprehensive coverage will bring fans closer to the game they love, deepening their understanding and appreciation of the sport.
The Future Outlook: More Than Just a Three-Season Partnership?
While the deal is set for three seasons, it's not far-fetched to consider that this partnership between Movistar Plus+ and EuroLeague may go beyond that timeframe, especially given the rising popularity of basketball in Spain. With the synergistic alignment between EuroLeague's excellent reputation and Movistar Plus+'s commitment to quality, there are undoubtedly exciting times ahead for basketball fans.
My Closing Thoughts
In the crowded and competitive realm of sports streaming, Movistar Plus+ has carved out its niche effectively, especially with this newest acquisition. The Movistar Plus+ EuroLeague partnership represents more than just a business deal; it's a fusion of passion, heritage, and top-notch broadcasting quality. Fans across Spain—and indeed, basketball enthusiasts worldwide—will likely find much to celebrate in this partnership, from the thrilling matches to the broader, more comprehensive coverage of the beloved sport.
FAQs
What is the new Movistar Plus+ EuroLeague deal?
Movistar Plus+ has become the official broadcast partner for EuroLeague basketball in the Spanish market for the next three seasons. This collaboration aims to offer comprehensive coverage of EuroLeague basketball, including live games and extensive programming.
When does the broadcasting start?
The broadcasting of EuroLeague basketball games on Movistar Plus+ starts on October 5th.
How many games will be broadcast each week?
Two key matchups will be broadcast each week, along with extensive programming surrounding the matches for subscribers of Movistar Plus+.
What does this mean for basketball fans in Spain?
Spanish basketball enthusiasts can look forward to high-quality EuroLeague coverage, in addition to existing offerings like acb and NBA content. This strengthens Movistar Plus+'s position as a premier destination for basketball fans in Spain.
Are all EuroLeague games involving Spanish teams going to be broadcast?
Yes, Movistar Plus+ will broadcast every Euroleague fixture involving a Spanish team starting from October 5.
What is the significance of this partnership for EuroLeague?
This collaboration with Movistar Plus+ helps to grow EuroLeague's large and expanding fan base in Spain. It also ensures that fans will get comprehensive and high-quality coverage of the league.
Who held the broadcasting rights before this deal?
The streaming service DAZN previously held the broadcasting rights for EuroLeague basketball in Spain.
Who are the participating Spanish teams in the 2023-24 EuroLeague season?
The participating teams from Spain for the 2023-24 EuroLeague season are Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, FC Barcelona, Valencia Basket, and reigning EuroLeague champion Real Madrid.
What are the statements from the officials about this partnership?
Paulius Motiejunas, the CEO of EuroLeague basketball, expressed that Movistar Plus+ is synonymous with quality. Enric Rojas, the Sports Director of Movistar Plus+, mentioned that they are especially happy to include EuroLeague in their sports content portfolio once again.
Where can I subscribe to watch EuroLeague games on Movistar Plus+?
You can subscribe to Movistar Plus+ through their website or app, and you need to choose the appropriate package to access EuroLeague content.