Toronto Raptors Sign Deal to Broadcast Games on French Network

The Toronto Raptors, National Basketball Association (NBA) and TVA Sports have announced that they have agreed to a multi-year deal that will bring NBA games to the newest French-language sports network in Quebec.

TVA Sports will broadcast a mix of regular season NBA games, including live play-by-play coverage and analysis of the Toronto Raptors by knowledgeable basketball experts Paul Rivard (an experienced journalist and sports commentator) and Pascal Jobin (a former professional basketball player and coach). The channel will also feature match-ups of legendary teams like the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls, as well as the NBA Playoffs and The Finals. Live French broadcast of these games will be exclusive to TVA Sports. This is the NBA’s latest step to expand the league’s footprint in Canada.

Pierre Dion, President and CEO of the TVA Group, commented: “This agreement marks a big TV comeback for French-language basketball coverage, after a 12-year absence. Francophone audiences from Quebec and across Canada deserve the opportunity to appreciate the thrilling spectacle of NBA basketball.”

Dan MacKenzie, Vice-President and General Manager of NBA Canada, said: “TVA Sports is a great destination for French-speaking sports fans in Canada and we are excited to bring NBA games to their new line-up. Quebec is an important market for the NBA in Canada, and this partnership will help build a strong presence for basketball in the province.”

Chris Hebb, Senior Vice President, Broadcast and Content, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, added: “We’re thrilled to work with the NBA and TVA Sports on this exciting new initiative that allows us to better connect with Raptors fans across the country. After the success of our preseason game in Montreal last year, we feel this is another step to better engage our French-speaking fans.”