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The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) will have games televised on Friday nights by US broadcast network Ion as part of a multi-year agreement with media firm Scripps.
Contract:
- WNBA games during two windows on Friday nights will air on Ion over 15 weeks from 26th May to 8th September
- Ion to implement extensive promotional effort to drive awareness and viewership during multi-year pact
- Scripps’ other national networks, including Bounce and Scripps News, will cross-market and promote WNBA coverage
- Scripps to use its local TV stations to promote ‘WNBA Friday Night Spotlight on Ion’ throughout the season
Context:
Scripps launched its sports division in December and is keen to become a larger player in the US sports broadcasting market.
The WNBA becomes the first sports property to air on Ion, with the CW affiliate networks owned by Scripps also showing coverage of LIV Golf.
Comment:
“The WNBA is thrilled to partner with Scripps to expand the league’s media horizon and reach basketball fans in greater numbers,” said Cathy Engelbert, WNBA commissioner.
“Access to watch WNBA games is in high demand, and Scripps’ dedicated Friday night lineup of WNBA games on Ion will become much desired appointment viewing for WNBA fans.”
Coming next:
The WNBA season tips off on 19th May.
