Legendary broadcaster makes NBA on NBC cameo return after 24 years
If you were watching NBC’s Sunday Night Basketball broadcast of the NBA matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, you would have noticed something very familiar.
MORE: NBA legend catches death stare from Caitlin Clark during NBC broadcast
Last night was the first time since 2002 that legendary broadcaster Bob Costas featured on NBC’s coverage of an NBA game.
Feels like 2002
During the broadcast, Costas alluded to the last time the NBA appeared on the NBC network prior to this season.
Bob Costas appears on NBA on NBC coverage for the first time since 2002!
— NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) February 1, 2026NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/fMxhceF3KF
“And as I was saying back in 2002, welcome to the NBA on NBC,” Costas said.
“That’s right. Prior to this season the last time the NBA was on NBC, Shaq, Kobe and the Lakers were finishing off a sweep of the Nets to complete a three peat. I hosted it and the great Marv Albert called it.”

Mar 6, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Network executive David Zaslav and Bob Costas attend the game between the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Costas then went on to highlight and give a shout out to host Maria Taylor and the current crop of broadcasters who lead today’s NBC coverage of the NBA.
“For the most part, the focus is on a new generation of teams, and a new generation of stars presented by a new generation of broadcasters beginning tonight with the host of Sunday Night Basketball, Maria Taylor,” Costas said.
After all the iconic games and NBA Finals which Costas has hosted and covered for NBC, his presence sure brought a nostalgic 1990’s feeling to last night’s broadcast.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
NFL: Ranking the greatest Super Bowl quarterback performances
NBA: Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo’s mom hints at next NBA team
MLB: Mets sign former Dodgers World Series champion
SPORTS MEDIA: Mattress Mack reveals massive $2 million Super Bowl 60 wager
ENTERTAINMENT: WWE star calls Pat McAfee to reveal shocking 2026 Royal Rumble return
VIRAL: Kendall Jenner halts interview for Tom Brady Super Bowl 60 prediction on FaceTime
The post Legendary broadcaster makes NBA on NBC cameo return after 24 years appeared first on The Big Lead.