Talks are underway between Disney and potential suitors for the 22 Fox Sports RSNs. In other news, the complete NBA schedule release is set for Friday and LeBron James’ production company is partnering with Showtime on a new documentary.
Disney Begins Early Talks on Fox RSN Sale
Disney CEO Bob Iger said Tuesday that the company is in the early stages of selling the 22 Fox Sports regional sports networks it will acquire in its $71.3 billion purchase of 21st Century Fox assets. There have been some indications of lukewarm interest in the RSNs, with MSG CEO James Dolan publicly apathetic about the properties last month. Even so, Iger said conversations have already begun with prospective bidders and that “interest is being expressed.”
Disney agreed to divest the RSNs in order to gain justice department approval for the deal and is required to sell the properties within 90 days of closing.
The CEO of Sinclair Broadcasting said Wednesday his company could bid for the RSNs, according to Wall Street Journal reporter Joe Flint. Sinclair is known primarily for its right-wing local news operation but has of late become a bigger player in sports, running both Stadium and Tennis Channel. [Sports Business Daily 8.8, Joe Flint/Twitter 8.8]
Full NBA Schedule Release Set For Friday
The NBA will release its full 2018-19 regular season schedule on Friday, two days after the league revealed its Opening Week, Christmas Day and Martin Luther King Day schedules. The season begins October 16 with Sixers-Celtics and Warriors-Rockets on TNT. LeBron James‘ Lakers debut is scheduled for October 18 at Portland on TNT, with his home opener coming in a special Saturday night timeslot on ESPN October 20.
The Christmas Day schedule is unchanged from the leaks that were reported late Tuesday night. As for Martin Luther King Day, TNT will air a tripleheader of Pelicans-Grizzlies, Rockets-Sixers and Warriors-Lakers. [NBA.com 8.8]
James’ Production Company Partnering on Documentary
LeBron James’ production company SpringHill Entertainment is partnering with Showtime on a three-part documentary focused on athlete activism. The series will be titled “Shut Up and Dribble,” a reference to derogatory comments about James made by a cable news talker earlier this year. James serves as executive producer. [Variety 8.8]
