Kevin Harlan Nears Deal with Amazon for NBA

Amazon Prime Video is finalizing a deal to bring Kevin Harlan onboard as their No. 2 NBA play-by-play announcer, joining Ian Eagle, who has already agreed to be the top announcer for the streaming service's NBA coverage. Harlan, known for his longstanding work with CBS, will maintain his NFL and college basketball duties. The streaming service plans to feature studio shows hosted by Taylor Rooks with analysts Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin, as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season broadcasted on Amazon, ESPN/ABC, and NBC/Peacock. Amazon is also seeking game analysts, considering figures such as Dwyane Wade, Stan Van Gundy, and Richard Jefferson. This move is part of Amazon's broader strategy to expand into live sports broadcasting, as evidenced by their previous acquisition of exclusive rights to NFL's 'Thursday Night Football.'