Roundball Rock Returns: NBA Theme Song Makes Triumphant Comeback on NBC
The iconic NBA theme song "Roundball Rock" by composer John Tesh made a triumphant return to NBC as the network welcomed back the NBA on Tuesday night. Peacock viewers were treated to the familiar tune as play-by-play announcer Noah Eagle set the stage for the game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Milwaukee Bucks. Fans took to social media to express their excitement about the nostalgic theme song's comeback.
While "Roundball Rock" has been used in college basketball broadcasts on Fox Sports since 2018, it holds a special place in the hearts of NBA fans who remember its association with NBA on NBC broadcasts from 1990 to 2002. The official announcement of the song's return was made during the Kentucky Derby coverage on May 3, following negotiation struggles detailed by Tesh last November. The composer expressed his enthusiasm for the song's return to NBC in July.
The 2025-26 NBA regular season kicks off on Tuesday, Oct. 21, with a doubleheader airing on NBC. Fans are eagerly anticipating how NBC will incorporate "Roundball Rock" into the broadcast for the highly anticipated night. The return of the iconic theme song marks a nostalgic moment for basketball enthusiasts and adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming NBA season.