NBL, WNBL join hands with Optus amid basketball's growing popularity in Australia
In Australia, NBL and WNBL have partnered with telecom company Optus, boosting baskteball's growth in the country.
In a recent development, the National Basketball League (NBL)) and Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) have announced a three-year partnership deal with Optus. This deal comes at a time when basketball is rapidly spreading its footprint in Australia, engaging more than one million people every year.
The National Basketball League (NBL) and the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) are gaining tremendous popularity, rising cultural relevance, and increased engagement across broadcast, digital and live platforms. Partnership with Optus will help the sport reach a larger audience within the country.
As per reports, live streaming of NBA matches through ESPN platforms has increased by 21%, while Network 10’s Primary Channel’s audience has grown by 18% from the 2025 season.
“Basketball in Australia is experiencing incredible momentum, and this partnership with Optus comes at an exciting time for both the NBL and WNBL,” NBL CEO Dave Stevenson remarked.
Stephen Rue, CEO at Optus, mentioned, “Basketball has become one of the most exciting and culturally relevant sports in Australia, with incredible momentum at both a community and professional level.” He further added that the recent partnership with NBL and WNBL will connect fans to moments that matter and accelerate the growth of basketball in Australia.
Sportscape believes the recent deal between the NBL and the WNBL with telecom company Optus is a major step towards supporting the growth of basketball in Australia, giving fans an enriched experience of the sport. At the same time, it is a great opportunity for Optus to increase its visibility and build prospects of global reach.
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