Disney+ Brings March Madness to South Africa in Global Streaming Push
Image: The Observer
The Walt Disney Company is expanding its global sports strategy, bringing NCAA March Madness to Disney+, including select availability in South Africa.
From March 17–April 7, 2026, Disney+ will stream 134 NCAA Men's and Women's Tournament games globally, with South African audiences accessing select games via ESPN channels on the platform.
Africa Enters the Global College Sports Distribution Map
While March Madness is a U.S.-centric property, its rollout into South Africa signals a broader shift, including:
Global streaming platforms are using premium sports to enter and build African markets
Basketball continues to gain momentum across the continent
International rights holders are testing demand beyond traditional markets
This move aligns with rising investment in basketball across Africa, from the Basketball Africa League (BAL) to grassroots programs and infrastructure development.
“Bringing March Madness to Disney+ customers across Europe [and South Africa] reflects the ongoing collaboration between ESPN and the NCAA, and the commitment both organizations share to grow college basketball internationally. ESPN’s decades of experience showcasing championship moments allows us to foster greater appreciation for collegiate athletics, and we’re thrilled to help connect more fans to the passion and tradition of the men’s and women’s tournaments on Disney+.”
“Collaborating with ESPN and Disney+ allows us to share the excitement of March Madness with a global audience that already values college basketball. The NCAA tournament is the ultimate stage for student-athletes, and broadening access to that experience helps grow appreciation for and interest in the game worldwide.”
A Long-Term Play, Not Immediate Monetization
Disney’s inclusion of South Africa is less about short-term revenue and more about: Audience development, expanding sports consumption habits, positioning Disney+ as a destination for live sport in Africa.
March Madness on Disney+ in South Africa reflects a bigger trend - Africa is becoming part of the global sports media strategy.
As streaming platforms compete for subscribers, premium live sports-particularly basketball-are emerging as a key entry point into the African market.
Source: Disney+
