The NBA's current deal with ESPN expires after the 15-16 season and there are rumors that Fox will make a strong bid to acquire the broadcast rights in order to help Fox Sports 1.

John Skipper, president of ESPN, is intent on keeping the NBA.

“There are plenty of live sports rights, but the ones that make a difference are scarce,” said Skipper.

Skipper also called the NBA a "critical product" for ESPN.