NBA, USA Networks in Merchandising Pact

The National Basketball Assn. and USA Networks Inc. said they’re teaming up to sell basketball merchandise on the Internet and through USA’s Home Shopping Network cable channel. The multiyear agreement also involves the company’s Ticketmaster unit. Financial terms of the agreement weren’t disclosed. The move comes as the NBA prepares to relaunch its e-commerce division on its NBA.com Web site this spring. NBA Commissioner David Stern said the league had earlier scaled back its online sales efforts because its system was inadequate. As part of the agreement, Home Shopping Network will air NBA-themed programs in the U.S. and overseas, including a series of monthly, one-hour, U.S.-based NBA shows. Barry Diller, chairman and chief executive of USA Networks, said he’s in talks with other professional sports leagues about similar arrangements. The agreement will further the relationship the league has with Ticketmaster by coordinating the sale of tickets with merchandise. Shares of USA Networks rose $1.47 to close at $56.19 on Nasdaq.