This week there has been much discussion over whether or not the NBA and the NHL are entering talks with Google’s YouTube to stream live videos of games. An article from Bloomberg quotes Brian Suh, head of YouTube Partnership at Google’s Korean unit, saying that YouTube is in talks with, “most pro sports leagues” including the NBA, N
HL as well as some European soccer leagues. However recently CNN reported that according to a statement by the NHL, "The NHL is not in discussions with YouTube to stream live games. The NHL has not had conversations with the Google spokespeople mentioned in the Bloomberg report."
Live streaming sports video on YouTube is not new. Last year YouTube began live-streaming Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket matches. The two year deal with the IPL gave YouTube the exclusive right to stream live matches online. The IPL and YouTube agreed to split revenue earned from advertising and sponsorships. Additionally, according to Business Week, That venture proved lucrative, with games bringing in 55 million visits from more the 250 countries.
While the NHL is denying talks with YouTube, Michael Bass, a rep from the NBA said, “We’re pleased that YouTube recognizes the value of live sports.” The opportunities for streaming live sports could mean big business for Google’s YouTube. An average person visits YouTube for minutes, but potentially watches TV (especially sports) for hours at a time. This means that not only are advertising opportunities more prevalent; it also opens up opportunities for reaching various other customer markets.
Since nobody will actually confirm talks, it is unclear under what terms this agreement might be struck. However, if a deal is made it could be huge for sports fans. This deal could allow fans in various cities to view live games no matter where they are located.
It will be interesting to follow this story to see what (if any) agreement can be made. Ref. bloomberg.com, cnn.com, guardian.co.uk
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