Scripps Solidifies Long-Term Agreement with WNBA
The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) has made a significant move in sports broadcasting by reaching a multi-year agreement with the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). This collaboration is aimed at continuing to showcase regular season Friday night matchups on the ION network, ensuring that fans have access to exciting basketball action throughout the season.
Expanded Broadcast Reach and Viewership
ION has become a pivotal player in the sports broadcasting landscape, currently available in over 128 million homes across various platforms including pay television, connected TV, and free ad-supported streaming. This season marks a new high for ION as it broadcasts an impressive total of 50 regular season games as part of its WNBA Friday Night Spotlight series. The lineup is further enhanced with the introduction of the WNBA on ION Studio Show, which uniquely focuses on dedicated weekly coverage of WNBA games.
This partnership comes after a remarkable increase in viewership, with a reported 133% rise for the 2024 season's games compared to the previous year. More than 23 million unique viewers tuned in to enjoy the games and wrap shows, underscoring the growing popularity of women’s basketball.
Words from the Leaders
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, "The WNBA's partnership with Scripps has already delivered great results in expanding the league's reach and visibility. This new multi-year agreement reflects the growing excitement surrounding the league and the rising demand for WNBA games. Through Scripps' ION Network Friday Night doubleheaders, we will continue to showcase the world-class talent of WNBA athletes to even more fans nationwide."
Adam Symson, the president and CEO of Scripps, echoed this sentiment, saying, "Since 2023, the WNBA Friday Night Spotlight on ION has enhanced accessibility and reach for WNBA games for fans nationwide. Our robust partnership with the league has flourished, and we are thrilled to solidify ION's status as the premier Friday night destination for WNBA action for years to come."
About the E.W. Scripps Company
The E.W. Scripps Company is a prominent journalism and media organization based in Cincinnati, known for its deep-rooted community connections and broad national reach. For over 147 years, Scripps has been a trusted provider of unbiased news and information. The Scripps Sports division effectively serves both professional and collegiate sports leagues, providing comprehensive local and national coverage.
For more insights into the WNBA on ION and channel availability, fans are encouraged to follow the official social media handles of ION. Furthermore, Scripps is set to continue its legacy of fostering connections through quality journalism and entertainment across its numerous platforms.
As a leading general entertainment network, ION not only broadcasts major cable and broadcast programs but also produces original series, live sports, and special events. It operates as part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP), which remains committed to creating a well-informed world for its audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the new Scripps and WNBA agreement?
The agreement allows ION to continue broadcasting Friday night games, increasing the visibility and accessibility of WNBA games for fans.
How has viewership changed for WNBA games on ION?
Viewership for the WNBA on ION increased by 133% year-over-year, attracting over 23 million unique viewers.
What does the WNBA on ION Studio Show entail?
This show is the first dedicated weekly game broadcast covering the WNBA, providing exclusive insights and highlights from the games.
Where can I watch ION's broadcasts?
ION is available across various platforms, including pay TV and streaming services, in over 128 million homes.
Who leads the E.W. Scripps Company?
Adam Symson serves as the president and CEO of The E.W. Scripps Company, guiding its mission in media and journalism.
