We have yet to see how Amazon’s streaming of NBA games on Prime Video will unfold, but it has been confirmed that Al Michaels will not be part of the coverage.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Michaels expressed his disinterest in returning to NBA coverage for Amazon’s 2025 games, preferring that the company build a long-term broadcasting team. Currently, Michaels is known for his work as the voice of Amazon’s “Thursday Night Football” NFL broadcasts.
Michaels emphasized the importance of Amazon assembling a dedicated team for NBA coverage and suggested that his upcoming contract expiration at the end of the NFL season makes him an unlikely candidate for the role.
According to Michaels, two NBA team owners praised Amazon’s broadcasting quality, particularly citing the success of the “Thursday Night Football” team. Michaels also humorously recommended his friend Greg Kinnear to portray him in Amazon’s upcoming John Madden biopic.
Michaels boasts a wealth of experience in sports broadcasting, having covered numerous prime-time NFL games, World Series events, and memorable hockey moments. While he previously worked NBA games for ABC, he is primarily celebrated for his work in football and other sports.
With Amazon’s significant investment in securing NBA broadcasting rights, it is anticipated that they will make strategic decisions to enhance the viewing experience for fans.