NBA Returns to NBC with Iconic ‘Roundball Rock’ Theme by John Tesh

Last night, the NBA returned to NBC for the first time since 2002

The NBA made a much-anticipated return to NBC broadcasting last night, featuring games between the Oklahoma Thunder and Houston Rockets, and the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers. The iconic “Roundball Rock” theme by John Tesh introduced the games, marking its comeback on national television as part of NBC’s new 11-year deal with the NBA.

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NBA’s return to NBC and the revival of “Roundball Rock”

For the first time since 2002, NBA games are once again broadcast on NBC, a milestone marked by the return of John Tesh’s renowned theme song “Roundball Rock.” The opening night featured the Oklahoma Thunder facing the Houston Rockets and the Golden State Warriors playing the Los Angeles Lakers, with Tesh’s composition heralding the broadcast—bringing a wave of nostalgia among basketball fans.

John Tesh appeared on NBC’s Today Show to celebrate the occasion and performed “Roundball Rock” live with a 12-piece orchestra. This marked his first live orchestral rendition of the piece, underscoring the theme’s durable appeal and importance in NBA broadcasting history.

The iconic theme and its origin story

“Roundball Rock” was NBC’s NBA theme from 1990 through 2002, during which it became synonymous with the sport and the league’s most memorable moments. The theme was created in an unusual way: while in France covering the Tour de France, Tesh awoke at 2 a.m. with a melody in his head. Lacking a tape recorder or smartphone, he called his own answering machine and hummed the tune—preserving what would become one of the most recognizable sports themes on television.

Tesh estimates the song played around 12,000 times during NBC’s NBA broadcasts. The piece features a full orchestra complementing piano, bass, drums, and guitar, crafted to match the rhythm of basketball play—especially the fast break tempo of approximately 120 beats per minute.

Tesh’s career and the musical journey

John Tesh’s musical talent began early, learning trumpet and piano while growing up on Long Island. Initially planning to attend music school, he diverted to studies in textile chemistry before discovering his passion for broadcasting. After a rapid rise through various news positions, including co-hosting “Entertainment Tonight,” he shifted toward sports coverage and music composition.

His experience covering events like the Tour de France allowed him to create instrumental music that captivated audiences and earned him two Grammy nominations. Creating “Roundball Rock” solidified his reputation as a sports composer and launched a new chapter in his musical career.

The theme’s legacy and cultural impact

Beyond its broadcast life, “Roundball Rock” has become a cultural touchstone of NBA nostalgia, frequently recalled by former players, coaches, and fans as the authentic sound of the league’s golden era. The theme’s association with iconic figures like Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’Neal, and the epic moments televised by NBC helped turn it into an emblem of basketball excellence.

The song also enjoyed a moment of renewed mainstream recognition through a popular 2013 parody on “Saturday Night Live,” which humorously portrayed Tesh and “his brother Dave,” introducing fictitious lyrics to the instrumental piece. This sketch cemented the theme’s place in popular culture and highlighted its enduring relevance.

Modern revival and fan reactions

When NBC secured an extensive new media rights deal for NBA coverage extending 11 years into the future, fans eagerly anticipated the return of the classic theme. Following a tentative modernized recording, Tesh reverted to the original arrangement after fans expressed strong attachment to the classic version via social media feedback.

The theme not only marks the return of NBA broadcasts on NBC but also serves as a bridge connecting generations of fans to the league’s history and NBC’s distinctive coverage legacy.

Behind the scenes: selecting and producing “Roundball Rock”

Tommy Roy, NBC’s longtime sports producer, praised “Roundball Rock” for its memorable melody and perfect fit as a branding tool for NBA programming. NRC had considered several options before selecting the piece, which was delivered as a finished product by Tesh on VHS, complete with highlights of the 1988 NBA Finals—an innovative demonstration that impressed executives immediately.

Tesh described the process of composing the theme as carefully tailored to fit basketball’s pace and television requirements, creating segments that allowed announcers like Marv Albert and Bob Costas space to narrate without clashing with the music.

Looking ahead

With the NBA on NBC back on air and “Roundball Rock” reinstated as the musical signature, John Tesh’s theme continues to unify basketball fans, broadcasters, and musicians alike. As Tesh prepares for future tours and records new versions of the theme, the song remains a vital part of both his career and the NBA’s broadcast tradition.

In an era of rapid media change and fleeting moments, “Roundball Rock” endures as a timeless anthem—one that began with a simple answering machine message and evolved into an unforgettable soundtrack of basketball’s most celebrated tales.

Questions and answers

Q: NBA return to NBC broadcast 2024

A: The NBA is returning to NBC broadcasts in 2024 as part of a new media rights agreement. This marks a significant revival of NBC's historic relationship with the league, which previously aired NBA games prominently in the 1990s and early 2000s. The new partnership is expected to feature prime-time games and playoff coverage, bringing back the classic broadcast experience to fans.

Q: Roundball Rock NBA theme history

A: "Roundball Rock" is a famous instrumental theme composed by John Tesh that became synonymous with NBA on NBC broadcasts from 1990 to 2002. The energetic and catchy tune helped define the NBA's television identity during that era, especially during the height of Michael Jordan's career. Its popularity endures, and it remains one of the most iconic sports themes in television history.

Q: John Tesh Roundball Rock live performance

A: John Tesh has occasionally performed "Roundball Rock" live, celebrating the iconic NBA theme that he composed. These performances highlight his skills as both a composer and musician, often thrilling fans familiar with the tune from NBC's NBA coverage. Live renditions help keep the theme's legacy alive beyond its television roots.

Q: NBC NBA media rights deal details

A: NBC's latest NBA media rights deal includes broadcasting a substantial number of regular-season games, playoff matchups, and the NBA Finals starting in 2024. The agreement also involves robust streaming options and expanded digital content, aiming to enhance viewer engagement across multiple platforms. This multi-year deal marks NBC's return as a key partner in NBA broadcasting after a long hiatus.

Q: NBA iconic theme songs

A: The NBA is known for several iconic theme songs that have become intertwined with basketball culture, including John Tesh's "Roundball Rock," which defined the 1990s NBA on NBC broadcasts. Other notable themes include "Fast Break" by Craig Taubman and various compositions used by networks like ESPN and TNT. These themes contribute significantly to the atmosphere and excitement surrounding NBA broadcasts.

Key Entities

John Tesh: John Tesh is an American pianist, composer, and sports broadcaster known for his work as a sports commentator. He has contributed scores for sports broadcasts, including NBA game coverage on NBC.

NBA: The NBA is the premier professional basketball league in the United States and Canada, comprising 30 teams. It is widely recognized for high-level basketball competition and global influence on the sport.

NBC: NBC is a major American television network that has historically broadcast NBA games, including key playoff matchups. It plays a significant role in delivering professional basketball coverage to a nationwide audience.

Oklahoma Thunder: The Oklahoma Thunder is likely referencing the Oklahoma City Thunder, a professional NBA team based in Oklahoma City. The Thunder are known for their competitive presence in the league and development of young talent.

Houston Rockets: The Houston Rockets are an NBA team based in Houston, Texas, known for their dynamic playing style and multiple championship appearances. They have been featured prominently in national broadcasts and NBA coverage.

Golden State Warriors: The Golden State Warriors are a professional NBA team based in San Francisco, California, celebrated for their multiple championships and star players. They have been pivotal in popularizing modern three-point shooting strategies.

Los Angeles Lakers: The Los Angeles Lakers are a storied NBA franchise with a rich history of championship success and prominent players. The team is frequently featured on national broadcasts like those produced by NBC.

Tommy Roy: Tommy Roy is a sports announcer and commentator known for his work covering NBA games. He has contributed to the broadcast teams for major network television presentations.

Marv Albert: Marv Albert is a renowned American sportscaster, often considered one of the greatest NBA announcers in history. He has been the lead play-by-play commentator for numerous NBA broadcasts, including those on NBC.

Bob Costas: Bob Costas is a prominent American sportscaster known for his extensive work covering major sporting events, including the NBA. He has served as a lead studio host for NBA broadcasts on NBC, providing in-depth analysis and commentary.

External articles

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