On April 20th, 2023, The E.W. Scripps Company released a press statement announcing an exciting new partnership with The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Creeping up on the heels of the WNBA’s 27th season, the companies signed a multi-year agreement to broadcast Friday night games during two windows on ION through the regular season.
With ION’s extensive reach to nearly every household nationwide through cable and streaming platforms, this move aligns with each company’s goals of expanding viewership of women’s sports.
“The WNBA is thrilled to partner with Scripps to expand the league’s media horizon and reach basketball fans in greater numbers. 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.” – WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
Scripps signing with the WNBA branches ION out into the cable and streaming sports world. 12 teams will compete in “The WNBA Friday Night Spotlight on ION”, which will air games starting May 26th through September 8th. All 15 weeks will be available nationally as well as regionally.
“We are pleased the WNBA sees the ION network as an opportunity to showcase its games with a weekly nationwide franchise designed to increase visibility and fandom for this sport. Women’s sports merits a national broadcast network that ensures every American TV household can watch these amazing athletes and their gripping gameplay.” – Brian Lawlor, President of Scripps Sports.
More specifics on the multi-year agreement were not released, though this is certain to be a big move for both companies as they strive to increase accessibility and awareness of women’s sports.
A finalized Friday night schedule and full details have yet to be announced, so fans check back with Cord Cutters News for more details as additional information is released.