In an unforeseen twist, TNT is at risk of losing NBA broadcast rights, just as Warner Bros. Discovery prepares to launch its Venu Sports joint streaming venture alongside Disney and Fox. However, despite the potential setback, a new report suggests that this development is unlikely to completely disrupt the plans for the streaming service.

According to CNBC's Alex Sherman, while the loss of NBA rights would undoubtedly lead to a reevaluation of the Venu platform's structure, it is not expected to result in the termination of the service. Although Disney and Fox have already shown their value by bringing NFL packages to the table, Warner Bros. Discovery dropping the NBA would mean that the other two companies will shoulder the majority of the sports content on Venu while maintaining an equal one-third stake in the venture.

Sherman emphasizes that the absence of the NBA would diminish the service's value for consumers. However, for now, Warner Bros. Discovery will continue to have the NBA on its platform at least until the end of next year, regardless of the outcome of its negotiations for future broadcast rights.

In addition to the NBA, TNT and TBS also boast Major League Baseball, NHL, NCAA men's basketball tournament, and NASCAR (starting in 2025) broadcasts. While TNT may try to pivot to other sports rights to supplement its content and replace professional basketball, it is worth noting that NBA games consistently draw over a million viewers during regular season games and significantly more during the playoffs. The absence of the NBA would undoubtedly weaken TNT's offering.

Despite the uncertainty, Warner Bros. Discovery remains hopeful that its matching rights agreement with the NBA will withstand scrutiny and allow the company to retain the broadcast rights. However, should they lose the NBA, they will face significant challenges in revitalizing their sports content lineup.

The loss of NBA rights by TNT may force a reshuffling of Venu Sports, but it is expected that the streaming service will continue to move forward, albeit with altered sports content. As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on Warner Bros. Discovery as it navigates the delicate dance of securing valuable sports rights to maintain the appeal of its streaming venture alongside Disney and Fox.

Editor's note: This article was written by Brendon, a Media Commentary staff writer at Awful Announcing. His extensive experience in covering sports and sports business makes him a qualified expert on this topic.