Shanghai Sharks fans gained home television access after the CBA League and Shanghai Media Group’s Five Star Sports agreed to a broadcasting partnership for the 2026–2027 season, ensuring live games return to local broadcast screens starting October 16.
Five Star Sports Secures CBA Broadcasting Rights
The agreement brings live CBA League coverage back to the television screen through Five Star Sports, the professional sports channel operated by Shanghai Media Group. The deal resolves a previous broadcasting gap that left local fans without official television coverage of their team during the previous campaign.
Under the terms of the new partnership, the television channel will begin live broadcasts of league matches starting October 16. The arrangement addresses viewing habits for local sports supporters who rely on traditional television rather than mobile applications or digital streaming platforms.
Addressing the Fan Experience and Viewing Habits
The return to television broadcasts aims to accommodate older sports fans and households accustomed to watching games on living room screens.
Local supporters expressed their preference for standard television coverage through social media channels and public commentary throughout the prior season. The absence of television broadcasts created a distinct gap for older supporters less familiar with mobile streaming interfaces or dependent on limited national network broadcasts.
The Impact of the Shanghai Sharks Championship Season
The broadcast agreement follows a notable milestone for the Shanghai Sharks, who claimed the league championship during the previous season to secure their first title in 24 years. Strong attendance at the Shanghai Gymnasium highlighted high local interest in the team’s performance.
Despite packed arenas and strong ticket demand locally, supporters without mobile streaming access faced difficulties following the team’s away games and regular-season fixtures on television. The newly established partnership between the league and Five Star Sports reconnects the team with its traditional broadcast audience across the city.
