“Roundball Rock” is making a triumphant return as NBC brings back the iconic theme associated with their past NBA broadcasts. The memorable tune premiered during the network’s Kentucky Derby coverage, answering the long-standing question about its return since NBC secured NBA broadcasting rights last July. The piece composed by John Tesh was the musical backdrop for NBA games aired by NBC from 1990 to 2002, a period often remembered for the legendary Chicago Bulls dynasty led by Michael Jordan, clinching six NBA championships.
NBC Sports president, Rick Cordella, expressed enthusiasm about reintroducing the iconic theme, highlighting its historical significance. “Roundball Rock is one of the greatest pieces of theme music in sports history. Hearing it immediately conjures images of NBC Sports’ coverage of one of the golden ages of the NBA, from Magic to Michael to Kobe and many others,” said Cordella. He also mentioned collaborations with Tesh to restore the theme to its former glory on NBC and its streaming platform, Peacock.
The promotional clip features contemporary NBA talents like Luka Doncic, Donovan Mitchell, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. It cleverly blends appearances from NBC show stars hummimg along to the theme and culminates with Tesh himself at a keyboard, set within the Los Angeles Clippers’ home, Intuit Dome. The spirited scene ends with a nod from Tracy Morgan, affirming Tesh’s enduring musical prowess.
Behind the piece is a fascinating origin story. Tesh famously composed the theme in a spontaneous burst of creativity in 1989, during a late-night inspiration. Without recording tools at hand, Tesh preserved the melody by leaving himself a voicemail. This anecdote contributes to the nostalgic allure that fans associate with the tune.
Tesh expressed his delight in partnering again with NBC Sports, noting the strong vision shared by Cordella for reviving “Roundball Rock.” He looks forward to witnessing its revival during the NBA’s upcoming season broadcasts. Last year, as negotiations for media rights progressed, Tesh hinted at refreshing the song for NBC’s Paris Olympics coverage, causing a stir on social media.
Although NBC lost its NBA rights in the past, “Roundball Rock” maintained its popularity, finding new life through Fox Sports’ college basketball coverage and a memorable parody by Jason Sudeikis on “Saturday Night Live.”
Beginning in October, NBC’s renewed agreement with the NBA and WNBA will activate. Peacock will host exclusive Monday night games, while NBC/Peacock will feature regional doubleheaders on Tuesdays. Additionally, “Sunday Night Basketball” will debut in January as another viewing option.
NBC revealed during the weekend that former NBA star Carmelo Anthony will join their studio coverage, adding further excitement to the network’s sports programming lineup.