In preparation for the upcoming “upfront” season, E.W. Scripps is taking advantage of the current hype surrounding Caitlin Clark and JuJu Watkins in order to benefit its network. The company has recently secured rights deals that will allow its ION broadcast network to showcase a Friday-night WNBA game as well as Saturday-night doubleheaders from the National Women’s Soccer League.
As part of its efforts to rebrand itself as a destination for a wider audience, Scripps is introducing studio shows for the first time in both leagues’ history. For the NWSL, this marks the first time any network has dedicated weekly studio shows to the sport, further solidifying ION’s commitment to showcasing women’s sports.
Starting on May 17th, ION will begin covering a new WNBA season with weekly studio shows, while also providing pre-match, halftime and post-match coverage for NWSL games through dedicated studio shows developed by ION. This push to boost ION’s presence in the TV industry will continue through the fall season when new episodes of entertainment programming are set to air. By investing in women’s sports coverage and quality entertainment programming, Scripps hopes to secure a loyal viewership and attract advertisers looking to reach a diverse audience.
