no more nba on tnt

No More Nba On Tnt

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No More Nba On Tnt

The cessation of National Basketball Association game broadcasts on the Turner Network Television (TNT) channel represents a significant shift in the landscape of sports media. This development marks the end of a long-standing partnership between the NBA and Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of TNT, impacting both the broadcasting company and the league’s viewership patterns.

The implications of this change are multifaceted. For TNT, it signifies a loss of a major programming asset, potentially affecting advertising revenue and channel viewership. For the NBA, it necessitates a realignment of broadcast agreements, potentially opening avenues for new media partners and altering the distribution of games across different platforms. Historically, TNT’s NBA coverage, characterized by its studio show “Inside the NBA,” has been a cultural touchstone, attracting a dedicated audience and shaping the narrative around the league.

This transition raises several critical questions regarding the future of NBA broadcasting, the evolving role of streaming services in sports consumption, and the potential impact on the fan experience. Exploring these areas provides a deeper understanding of the broader changes occurring within the sports media industry.

1. End of an Era

The phrase “End of an era,” in the context of no more NBA on TNT, signifies the termination of a long-standing and culturally impactful partnership. This departure transcends a mere contractual change; it represents the conclusion of a broadcasting relationship that has shaped the perception and consumption of professional basketball for a generation.

  • Broadcasting Legacy Dissolution

    The partnership between the NBA and TNT spanned decades, marked by consistent and high-profile game coverage. This consistent presence established TNT as a primary destination for NBA fans. The dissolution of this agreement terminates a broadcasting legacy, dismantling a familiar and established element of the sports media landscape.

  • Cultural Touchstone Departure

    “Inside the NBA,” a studio show broadcast on TNT, evolved into a cultural touchstone, influencing the discourse surrounding the league. Its unique blend of analysis, humor, and personality resonated with a broad audience. The show’s departure from TNT represents the loss of a widely recognized and influential element of basketball culture.

  • Shift in Viewership Habits

    For many viewers, tuning into TNT for NBA games became a habitual practice. The absence of NBA programming on the network necessitates a shift in these viewership habits. Fans must now seek alternative platforms to access the same content, potentially fragmenting the audience and impacting overall viewership numbers for the league.

  • Impact on Network Identity

    The NBA served as a significant component of TNT’s programming identity. Its absence creates a void in the network’s schedule, requiring a re-evaluation of programming strategy and potential shifts in target audience. The long-term impact on TNT’s brand recognition and viewership remains to be seen.

These facets of the “End of an Era” highlight the profound impact of the NBA’s departure from TNT. It represents not only a change in broadcasting agreements but also a cultural shift, influencing viewership patterns, network identity, and the overall landscape of sports media. The implications extend beyond the immediate loss of games, raising questions about the future of sports broadcasting and the evolving relationship between leagues, networks, and viewers.

2. Loss for Turner

The cessation of National Basketball Association broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT) directly translates to a significant loss for the broadcasting network. This loss extends beyond the simple absence of games, impacting multiple facets of Turner’s operations and market position.

  • Decline in Advertising Revenue

    NBA games on TNT consistently attracted a large and demographically desirable audience, making them a prime advertising platform. The absence of these broadcasts results in a significant reduction in advertising revenue for Turner. This loss necessitates finding alternative programming or strategies to recoup the financial deficit and maintain revenue targets. Historical data indicates that sports broadcasting, particularly high-profile events like NBA games, command premium advertising rates, further exacerbating the impact of this loss.

  • Reduction in Channel Viewership

    NBA games served as a key driver of viewership for TNT, particularly during primetime slots. The removal of this programming is likely to lead to a decline in overall channel viewership. This reduction impacts Turner’s bargaining power with cable providers and advertisers, potentially affecting future revenue streams and brand perception. Analysis of viewership trends following the departure of other major sports properties from broadcast networks demonstrates a clear correlation between the loss of sports content and a decline in overall channel viewership.

  • Impact on Brand Identity and Prestige

    TNT cultivated a strong association with NBA basketball over several decades. This association enhanced the network’s brand identity and prestige, attracting viewers and establishing it as a premier destination for sports content. The departure of NBA games weakens this association, potentially diminishing the network’s appeal to sports fans and impacting its perceived value within the broadcasting landscape. Competitor networks with robust NBA coverage may benefit from this shift, gaining a competitive advantage in attracting viewers and advertising revenue.

  • Loss of “Inside the NBA” Programming Asset

    The studio show “Inside the NBA,” broadcast on TNT, was a highly successful and culturally influential program. Its unique blend of analysis, humor, and personality resonated with a broad audience, extending beyond core basketball fans. The loss of NBA games necessitates the reassessment or discontinuation of this programming asset, depriving Turner of a valuable component of its broadcast portfolio. The potential relocation of the “Inside the NBA” team to a competing network further compounds this loss, potentially eroding TNT’s talent pool and audience loyalty.

These interconnected facets underscore the substantial loss incurred by Turner as a direct consequence of the absence of NBA games. The impact extends beyond immediate revenue deficits, affecting long-term brand identity, viewership trends, and the overall strategic positioning of the network within the competitive media landscape. The ability to effectively mitigate these losses and adapt to the changing dynamics of sports broadcasting will be crucial for Turner’s future success.

3. New Media Landscape

The departure of NBA games from TNT is inextricably linked to the evolving new media landscape. This landscape, characterized by the proliferation of streaming services, shifting viewership habits, and the disintermediation of traditional media channels, directly contributes to the altered negotiation dynamics between sports leagues and broadcasting networks. The rise of streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Peacock has created alternative avenues for content distribution, providing the NBA with increased leverage in negotiating broadcasting rights. These platforms offer substantial financial resources and a direct connection to consumers, diminishing the reliance on traditional television networks like TNT.

The shift towards streaming is not merely a matter of alternative platforms; it represents a fundamental change in how audiences consume content. Viewers increasingly prefer on-demand access, personalized recommendations, and mobile viewing options, all of which are hallmarks of streaming services. The NBA, recognizing this trend, is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on these changing preferences by forging partnerships with streaming services and exploring the creation of its own direct-to-consumer platforms. A real-world example of this shift is Amazon Prime Video’s acquisition of exclusive Thursday Night Football rights from the NFL, demonstrating the growing power of streaming platforms in the sports broadcasting market. The NBA’s potential move towards streaming reflects a similar strategic adaptation to the evolving media environment.

Understanding this connection is crucial for analyzing the long-term implications of the NBA’s departure from TNT. It signifies a broader trend of sports leagues seeking greater control over their content distribution and capitalizing on the revenue potential of the streaming market. While the absence of NBA games may negatively impact TNT’s viewership and advertising revenue, it simultaneously creates new opportunities for streaming services to expand their reach and attract new subscribers. The challenge for traditional networks like TNT lies in adapting to this new reality by embracing digital platforms, developing innovative content strategies, and forging strategic partnerships to remain competitive in the evolving media landscape. The broader theme showcases media companies must adapt to new business models, such as integrating streaming services, to compete in this new environment.

4. Shifting viewership patterns

The end of NBA broadcasts on TNT is both a consequence and a catalyst of shifting viewership patterns. The fragmentation of media consumption, driven by the rise of streaming services and on-demand content, has weakened the traditional dominance of linear television. Viewers, particularly younger demographics, increasingly prefer to consume sports content through digital platforms, mobile devices, and social media channels. This shift away from traditional broadcast television has directly contributed to the NBA’s decision to explore alternative broadcasting agreements, including those with streaming services that can better cater to these evolving viewership preferences. For instance, the increasing adoption of cord-cutting among younger audiences has diminished the value of traditional cable television packages, making streaming services a more attractive option for reaching this demographic. This, in turn, influences the NBA’s strategic decisions regarding broadcast rights, impacting its relationship with established networks like TNT.

The departure of NBA games from TNT is also likely to further accelerate the shift in viewership patterns. With the absence of this key programming, viewers who previously tuned into TNT for NBA games will be compelled to seek alternative platforms, either through other linear television channels or, more likely, through streaming services. This forced migration will likely expose these viewers to the benefits of streaming, such as on-demand access, personalized recommendations, and mobile viewing options, potentially solidifying their preference for these platforms. Consider the example of ESPN’s shift toward ESPN+, their own streaming service. With more exclusive games streaming on ESPN+, viewers are being funneled away from linear viewing and towards new online viewing habits. This exemplifies how the fragmentation of viewership habits can shape long-term viewing.

In summary, the cessation of NBA broadcasts on TNT and shifting viewership patterns are interconnected phenomena. The shift away from linear television contributed to the NBA’s decision to explore alternative broadcasting agreements, while the absence of NBA games on TNT is likely to further accelerate this shift. This underscores the importance of understanding evolving consumer behavior in the sports media landscape. Television networks face the challenge of adapting to this fragmented ecosystem by embracing digital platforms and developing innovative content strategies. The ultimate outcome may be a more diverse and fragmented media landscape, where sports content is distributed across a range of platforms, catering to the evolving preferences of a digitally native audience.

5. Impact on Advertising

The absence of NBA broadcasts on TNT will exert a demonstrably negative impact on the network’s advertising revenue. NBA games, particularly those during primetime and playoff series, consistently attracted large and engaged audiences, making them highly valuable advertising slots. Advertisers are willing to pay premium rates to reach this demographic, recognizing the potential for increased brand visibility and sales. With the termination of the broadcasting agreement, TNT forfeits this valuable advertising inventory, leading to a likely decrease in overall revenue. This effect is not merely theoretical; analysis of prior instances where major sports properties have left broadcast networks reveals a direct correlation between the loss of sports programming and a decline in advertising revenue.

The impact on advertising extends beyond the immediate loss of revenue from game broadcasts. The “Inside the NBA” studio show, a cultural touchstone for basketball fans, also generated significant advertising revenue. The show’s unique format and engaging personalities attracted a loyal audience, making it an attractive platform for advertisers seeking to connect with sports enthusiasts. Without NBA games to support it, the future of “Inside the NBA” is uncertain, potentially leading to a further reduction in advertising opportunities for TNT. The cascading effect extends to related programming, such as pre- and post-game shows, which also relied on the NBA broadcasts for viewership and advertising revenue. Alternative programming will need to generate similar numbers to make up the shortfall, a difficult task given the NBA’s consistent success on the channel.

In conclusion, the diminished advertising revenue stemming from the end of NBA broadcasts on TNT represents a significant challenge for the network. The loss of both game broadcasts and related programming will necessitate a comprehensive re-evaluation of advertising strategies and programming priorities. Successfully mitigating the revenue impact will require attracting new advertisers, developing alternative programming with comparable audience appeal, and potentially embracing new advertising models, such as targeted digital advertising and sponsorships. The future revenue outlook for TNT hinges on its ability to adapt to the changing dynamics of the sports media landscape and effectively address the advertising void created by the absence of NBA basketball.

6. Future broadcast deals

The end of National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT) underscores the evolving dynamics of sports media and directly influences the shape of future broadcast deals for the league. This transition necessitates a re-evaluation of broadcast partnerships and distribution strategies for both the NBA and potential media partners.

  • Increased Leverage for the NBA

    The departure from TNT allows the NBA to negotiate with a broader range of media entities, including streaming services and other traditional networks. This increased competition for broadcasting rights provides the NBA with greater leverage in securing favorable terms, such as higher rights fees and more flexible distribution agreements. For instance, the NBA could seek agreements that include greater control over content distribution and the opportunity to create its own direct-to-consumer streaming platform.

  • Rise of Streaming Service Involvement

    Future NBA broadcast deals will likely feature a more prominent role for streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Peacock. These platforms offer substantial financial resources and a direct connection to consumers, making them attractive partners for the NBA. Agreements could involve exclusive streaming rights for certain games or the integration of NBA content into existing streaming packages. The success of Amazon Prime Video’s acquisition of exclusive Thursday Night Football rights from the NFL serves as a precedent for streaming services becoming major players in sports broadcasting.

  • Impact on Traditional Network Strategies

    The end of NBA broadcasts on TNT necessitates a strategic shift for traditional networks. They must adapt to the evolving media landscape by developing innovative content strategies, embracing digital platforms, and potentially forging strategic partnerships with streaming services. Networks may focus on acquiring rights to other sports properties or developing alternative programming to fill the void left by the NBA. They must also compete on price, potentially paying higher rights fees to acquire sports properties.

  • Geographic and Demographic Considerations

    Future broadcast deals are influenced by geographic and demographic considerations. The NBA may seek to tailor agreements to specific regions or demographics, maximizing viewership and advertising revenue. This could involve partnering with regional sports networks or targeting specific demographics through digital platforms. A focus on international markets, particularly in regions with growing basketball fan bases, could also shape future broadcast deals, leading to partnerships with international media companies.

The facets discussed highlight the transformative impact of the change on future negotiations. With the absence on TNT, the NBA can re-evaluate its broadcasting approach. The shift highlights opportunities, challenges and the necessity of adaptable approaches by media entities to capitalize on these opportunities.

7. “Inside the NBA” void

The cessation of National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT) directly correlates with the emergence of a noticeable void in the landscape of sports analysis and entertainment, specifically attributed to the absence of the studio show, “Inside the NBA.” This void signifies more than a mere programming change; it represents the loss of a culturally significant and influential element of NBA broadcasting.

  • Absence of Unique Analytical Style

    “Inside the NBA” distinguished itself through its distinctive blend of insightful analysis, humor, and personal rapport among its hosts. The program offered a counterpoint to conventional sports broadcasting, fostering engaging discussions that extended beyond game highlights and statistics. The disappearance of this format leaves a void in the availability of nuanced and entertaining NBA commentary. The style has been mimicked by many but never duplicated.

  • Loss of Influential Voices

    The hosts of “Inside the NBA,” particularly Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson, possessed significant influence within the NBA community. Their opinions and perspectives shaped public perception of players, teams, and league narratives. The absence of their voices from the TNT platform removes a powerful source of analysis and commentary, impacting the discourse surrounding the sport. Their experience as a group is irreplaceable.

  • Reduced Platform for Player Personality

    “Inside the NBA” provided a unique platform for NBA players to showcase their personalities and engage with fans in an informal setting. Guest appearances and interviews on the show often revealed a different side of players compared to their on-court persona, fostering a stronger connection with the audience. The departure of the show diminishes this opportunity for players to connect with fans and showcase their personality and a unique chance to broaden their brand appeal.

  • Diminished Cultural Impact on Basketball Discourse

    “Inside the NBA” transcended the boundaries of sports broadcasting, evolving into a cultural phenomenon that influenced the broader discourse surrounding basketball. The show’s catchphrases, running gags, and memorable moments permeated social media and popular culture, shaping the way fans engaged with the sport. The absence of this cultural touchstone diminishes the overall entertainment value associated with NBA coverage.

The facets collectively highlight the importance that “Inside the NBA” held in sports media. With “no more nba on tnt” the show itself might seek other avenues and homes but until those details come to light the “Inside the NBA” void, in the wake of “no more nba on tnt” showcases the shift in programming and fan consumption of the sport.

8. Streaming service competition

The cessation of National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT), fundamentally linked to the intensification of streaming service competition, represents a significant paradigm shift in sports media distribution. The aggressive pursuit of sports content by streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Peacock, driven by a desire to expand subscriber bases and enhance platform value, directly contributes to the altered landscape wherein TNT no longer holds NBA rights. These platforms possess substantial capital resources and a business model predicated on direct-to-consumer engagement, enabling them to outbid traditional broadcast networks for coveted sports properties. The acquisition of exclusive NFL “Thursday Night Football” rights by Amazon Prime Video provides a concrete example of this trend, demonstrating the willingness of streaming services to invest heavily in securing sports content traditionally associated with linear television. Thus, “no more nba on tnt” is a direct consequence of the NBA’s strategic alignment with a marketplace increasingly dominated by the financial incentives and distribution capabilities of streaming services.

Further complicating matters, the appeal of streaming lies not only in financial considerations but also in the technological advantages they offer. Streaming platforms provide viewers with on-demand access, personalized content recommendations, and a seamless viewing experience across multiple devices. These features cater to the evolving preferences of a digitally native audience, particularly younger demographics, who are increasingly eschewing traditional cable television in favor of streaming services. The NBA, cognizant of these trends, is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on this shift by partnering with streaming platforms that can deliver its content directly to these audiences. The league’s potential exploration of creating its own direct-to-consumer streaming service further exemplifies this strategy, allowing it to control its content distribution and cultivate a direct relationship with its fanbase.

In conclusion, the interplay between streaming service competition and the end of NBA broadcasts on TNT highlights the transformative forces reshaping the sports media landscape. The influx of streaming platforms into the sports broadcasting market has not only driven up the cost of broadcasting rights but has also altered the dynamics of content distribution and audience engagement. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for all stakeholders, from traditional networks to streaming services and the NBA itself. Navigating this complex landscape requires a strategic understanding of evolving consumer preferences and a willingness to embrace innovative distribution models to remain competitive in the years to come.

9. Fan Experience Changes

The cessation of National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT) precipitates significant alterations to the viewing experience for basketball enthusiasts. These changes encompass accessibility, content presentation, and the overall engagement with the sport, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape.

  • Altered Accessibility to Games

    The absence of NBA games on TNT mandates that fans seek alternative platforms for viewing live contests. This shift potentially fragments the audience across various streaming services and cable networks, requiring viewers to subscribe to multiple platforms to access the same range of games previously available on a single channel. For instance, a fan who previously relied solely on TNT for their NBA viewing may now need subscriptions to ESPN+, NBA League Pass, and potentially another cable provider to follow their favorite team. The increase in subscription costs and the complexity of navigating multiple platforms directly impacts the affordability and convenience of accessing NBA games.

  • Evolving Content Presentation and Analysis

    The unique style and format of “Inside the NBA,” a studio show broadcast on TNT, significantly shaped the viewing experience for many fans. The show’s blend of insightful analysis, humor, and personal rapport fostered a distinct cultural connection with the audience. The absence of “Inside the NBA” leaves a void in the availability of this specific type of content, potentially diminishing the entertainment value associated with NBA coverage. Alternative programming on other networks or streaming platforms may not replicate the same dynamic or cater to the same audience preferences.

  • Shift in Viewing Habits and Engagement

    The change in broadcast partners encourages a shift in viewing habits, particularly with the rise of streaming services. Fans accustomed to watching games on traditional television may now need to adapt to streaming platforms, requiring reliable internet access and familiarity with digital devices. This transition can also impact social engagement, as fans may need to find new online communities or platforms to discuss games and share their opinions. The immediacy of social media creates a different, perhaps more impulsive, experience compared to the traditional television consumption.

  • Potential for Enhanced Technological Features

    The transition to streaming platforms also presents opportunities for enhanced technological features, such as interactive viewing options, personalized content recommendations, and access to additional camera angles or data streams. Streaming services can leverage these technological advancements to create a more immersive and engaging viewing experience. For instance, viewers may be able to select their preferred camera angle, access real-time statistics, or participate in interactive polls during the game. However, the availability and quality of these features may vary across different streaming platforms, potentially creating a fragmented and inconsistent viewing experience.

In summary, the termination of NBA broadcasts on TNT causes significant changes in how fans access, consume, and engage with the sport. While streaming platforms offer the potential for increased accessibility and enhanced technological features, they also introduce challenges related to affordability, content presentation, and the fragmentation of the viewing experience. The long-term impact of these changes will depend on how effectively the NBA and its media partners adapt to the evolving preferences of the fan base and leverage technological innovations to create a compelling and accessible viewing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following questions address common concerns and provide factual information regarding the conclusion of National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT).

Question 1: Why are NBA games no longer airing on TNT?

The broadcasting agreement between the NBA and Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of TNT, has concluded. The NBA has elected to pursue alternative broadcasting agreements, potentially with streaming services and other television networks, to optimize revenue and distribution strategies.

Question 2: Will “Inside the NBA” continue airing, and if so, where?

The future of “Inside the NBA” remains uncertain. While the program is intrinsically linked to TNT, there is the possibility that the show and its hosts may relocate to another network or streaming platform. Official announcements regarding the program’s future are pending.

Question 3: How will this change affect the accessibility of NBA games for viewers?

The shift in broadcasting agreements necessitates that viewers seek alternative platforms to access NBA games. This may involve subscribing to multiple streaming services or cable networks, potentially increasing the cost and complexity of accessing NBA content.

Question 4: Will this impact the quality or presentation of NBA broadcasts?

The quality and presentation of NBA broadcasts will likely vary depending on the specific agreements negotiated with new media partners. Streaming services, for example, may offer enhanced technological features, while other networks may prioritize different aspects of content presentation. It is unlikely there will be much affect.

Question 5: What implications does this change have for advertising revenue within sports broadcasting?

The departure of NBA games from TNT will have a direct impact on the network’s advertising revenue. Alternative programming must be developed to compensate for this loss. Moreover, this represents an opportunity for the new home of NBA broadcasting to recoup its investment via advertising revenue.

Question 6: How does this event reflect broader trends in the media landscape?

The conclusion of NBA broadcasts on TNT is indicative of the increasing competition from streaming services and the fragmentation of viewership habits. This event underscores the need for traditional media companies to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the sports broadcasting market.

This information provides a concise overview of the key implications stemming from the cessation of NBA broadcasts on TNT. Future developments will undoubtedly further shape the media landscape.

Further exploration of the new media environment is warranted to fully comprehend the implications.

Navigating the Post-TNT NBA Landscape

The absence of National Basketball Association (NBA) broadcasts on Turner Network Television (TNT) necessitates adjustments in viewing habits and strategic decision-making for various stakeholders. The following tips provide guidance for navigating this evolving media landscape.

Tip 1: Evaluate Streaming Service Options: Assess the cost-benefit of subscribing to various streaming services that may acquire NBA broadcasting rights. Consider factors such as game availability, video quality, and bundled content offerings to optimize value.

Tip 2: Monitor Broadcast Rights Negotiations: Stay informed about the outcomes of broadcast rights negotiations between the NBA and potential media partners. Understanding the distribution agreements will enable viewers to anticipate where games will be aired and plan accordingly.

Tip 3: Explore League Pass Alternatives: Investigate the NBA League Pass and its various subscription tiers. Determine if the League Pass provides sufficient coverage of preferred teams and games to justify the cost, especially in light of potential blackouts and regional restrictions.

Tip 4: Utilize Social Media Aggregators: Employ social media platforms and dedicated sports news aggregators to stay informed about game highlights, analysis, and commentary. These platforms can provide access to real-time updates and diverse perspectives, even without access to live broadcasts.

Tip 5: Adjust Advertising Strategies: For businesses and marketers, re-evaluate advertising budgets and target audiences based on the shifting viewership patterns. Explore alternative advertising channels, such as digital platforms and targeted campaigns, to effectively reach NBA fans.

Tip 6: Broadcasters need to rethink their approach. Traditional media outlets need to think outside the box and adopt new and creative ways to engage viewers and deliver content. Consider integrating with other sports or entertainment programs to maintain viewership.

These tips offer practical guidance for adapting to the changing landscape of NBA broadcasting. Proactive engagement with these recommendations will facilitate a seamless transition and optimize the viewing experience.

As the NBA navigates its future broadcasting strategy, continued monitoring and adaptation will be essential for all parties involved. The long-term impact remains to be seen but taking these tips into account will facilitate a successful transition.

Conclusion

The preceding analysis has elucidated the multifaceted implications stemming from “no more nba on tnt.” The end of this broadcast partnership represents a significant shift in sports media, impacting network revenue, viewership patterns, advertising strategies, and the fan experience. The changing nature of broadcasting requires examination of a number of areas.

As the sports media landscape continues to evolve, a thorough understanding of these dynamics is essential for stakeholders across the industry. From media companies to advertisers and, most importantly, fans, the future of NBA broadcasting hinges on adaptability and innovation. The absence of NBA games on TNT serves as a catalyst for reassessing established practices and embracing new models for content distribution and engagement. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities, ultimately shaping the way fans consume and connect with professional basketball for years to come. Time will tell where the pieces fall and the shift in the broadcasting landscape takes shape.