NBA Teams Hit with Lawsuits for Music Copyright Violation

Several NBA teams are facing lawsuits from Kobalt Music Publishing, Artist Publishing Group, and Prescription Songs for using music without permission.

Over 14 teams are in the hot seat, including the New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers, Indiana Pacers, Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Miami Heat, New Orleans Pelicans, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings, and San Antonio Spurs.

The Knicks specifically are accused of using songs by Jay-Z and Cardi B. While the Hawks are accused of using songs by OutKast and Migos.

Other popular songs include Busta Rhymes’ “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See,” Shaquille O’Neal’s “I Know I Got (Skills),” A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie’s “Look Back at It,” and DJ Khaled’s “All I Do Is Win” and a few others in videos meant to boost their image and commercial activities.

The plaintiffs say the teams didn’t get the proper licenses or permissions and are seeking $150,000 for each infringement.

While platforms like Instagram and TikTok have tons of licensed music, brands can’t use these tracks for promotional videos without proper authorization.