Gray Media Partners with Missouri Valley Conference
Gray Media, one of the largest multimedia companies in the U.S., has recently formed a significant agreement with the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC). This multi-year partnership is designed to improve the broadcasting of men’s and women’s basketball, creating exciting opportunities for college basketball fans eager to connect with their favorite teams.
Broadcasting Strategy and Coverage
Through this new agreement, MVC men’s and women’s basketball regular-season games, as well as state tournament events, will be produced and disseminated via Gray Media's extensive network. The partnership spans 22 markets located across Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Iowa, and Tennessee, ensuring local sports fans have access to a wide range of coverage.
Wider Viewing Choices
Beyond local broadcasts, MVC basketball games will also be available nationwide through ESPN+, thanks to a comprehensive multi-year arrangement with the network. Fans can look forward to live broadcasts via the ESPN app, eliminating the disruptions caused by digital blackouts that often affect streaming services.
Leadership Perspectives on the Collaboration
Jeff Jackson, the MVC Commissioner, shared his excitement about the partnership, emphasizing its importance in adapting to the changing landscape of sports broadcasting. Jackson noted that collaborating with Gray Media aims to ensure that college basketball fans have reliable access to live games.
Focus on Local Communities
Echoing Jackson's sentiments, Gray Media’s Chief Operating Officer, Sandy Breland, underscored their commitment to providing local sports coverage. This partnership is expected to positively impact not just fans but also the schools and local communities associated with the MVC.
About the Missouri Valley Conference, Inc.
The MVC stands as the second oldest NCAA Division I basketball conference in the country, with a rich history in competitive athletics that dates back over a century. Now in its 118th season, the conference is known for its commitment to nurturing a strong athletic tradition while also prioritizing the educational goals of its student-athletes and member schools.
Understanding Gray Media
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Gray Media owns the largest portfolio of leading local television stations in the United States. With a network that reaches approximately 36% of American television households, Gray Media is recognized for its innovative strategies in providing local programming and high-quality sports content.
The Role of Tupelo Honey
Tupelo Honey, a subsidiary of Gray Media, plays a crucial role in this agreement. Based in Indianapolis, this company has had a long-term partnership with the MVC, having provided production services for over a decade. Committed to producing hundreds of basketball games each year, Tupelo Honey ensures that broadcasts maintain high quality and can be streamed across various platforms.
Transforming College Sports Broadcasting
The partnership between Gray Media and the MVC marks a transformative moment in college sports broadcasting. By harnessing advanced technology and strong production capabilities, they are establishing a new benchmark for how college basketball is presented to fans, both locally and nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the partnership between Gray Media and MVC entail?
This partnership involves a multi-year agreement to produce and broadcast MVC men's and women's basketball games across various local and national platforms.
How will fans access the basketball games?
Fans can watch MVC games through Gray Media's local television stations and on ESPN+ without facing any digital blackouts.
What significance does the Missouri Valley Conference hold?
The MVC is celebrated as the second-oldest NCAA Division I conference and is known for its strong athletic tradition and commitment to student-athlete development.
What role does Tupelo Honey have in this agreement?
Tupelo Honey is responsible for producing MVC basketball content and has a long-standing relationship with the conference since 2007.
How does Gray Media plan to impact local communities?
Gray Media aims to enhance local sports broadcasting, benefiting fans, educational institutions, and surrounding communities through better access to live sports.
