WNBA, Scripps Renew Media Rights Deal

Introduction to the WNBA Media Rights Agreement

The WNBA and E.W. Scripps announced a new multiyear media rights agreement to carry Friday night WNBA matchups on Ion. This agreement also includes the "WNBA on Ion" studio show, the first weekly broadcast show dedicated exclusively to WNBA coverage.

Details of the Agreement

The value of the deal was not disclosed, but media reports peg the original deal that expires at the end of the 2025 season at an average of $13 million annually. The WNBA has been airing games on Ion since 2023. This season, the network will broadcast 50 regular season games. Ion is available on pay TV and streaming platforms in more than 128 million homes.

Growth and Popularity of the WNBA

The new agreement comes after Ion has seen huge growth with the WNBA and as the league gains in popularity thanks to stars such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The network said WNBA Friday Night Spotlight viewership grew 133% year over year and more than 23 million unique viewers tuned into the coverage.

Statements from WNBA and Scripps Executives

"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," said Scripps CEO Adam Symson. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the partnership with Scripps has helped the league expand its reach and visibility. "This new multi-year agreement reflects the growing excitement surrounding the league and the rising demand for WNBA games," she said.

Previous Media Rights Deals

The league signed an 11-year media rights deal with Disney, Amazon, and Comcast-owned NBCUniversal last July as part of the NBA’s media rights negotiation. The WNBA’s deal is valued at about $200 million per year.

Conclusion

The new media rights agreement between the WNBA and E.W. Scripps is a significant step forward for the league, providing more exposure and visibility for the players and teams. With the growing popularity of the WNBA, this agreement is expected to bring in more viewers and fans to the league.

FAQs

Q: What is the new media rights agreement between the WNBA and E.W. Scripps?

A: The new agreement is a multiyear deal to carry Friday night WNBA matchups on Ion, including the "WNBA on Ion" studio show.

Q: How many regular season games will Ion broadcast this season?

A: Ion will broadcast 50 regular season games this season.

Q: How many unique viewers tuned into the WNBA Friday Night Spotlight coverage?

A: More than 23 million unique viewers tuned into the coverage.

Q: What is the value of the WNBA’s media rights deal with Disney, Amazon, and Comcast-owned NBCUniversal?

A: The WNBA’s deal is valued at about $200 million per year.

Q: How long is the WNBA’s media rights deal with Disney, Amazon, and Comcast-owned NBCUniversal?

A: The deal is for 11 years.