Scripps is readying for the annual TV industry event, known as the “upfront,” where networks sell most of their advertising inventory for the upcoming programming cycle. The company is hoping that its recent deals with athletes such as Caitlin Clark and JuJu Watkins will bring in more viewers and help them secure prime ad spots.
Scripps’ ION broadcast network has recently secured rights to showcase a Friday-night WNBA game and Saturday-night doubleheaders from the National Women’s Soccer League. This marks the first time a linear network has provided coverage for both leagues. To enhance ION’s presence, Scripps plans to launch a year-long marketing campaign focused on promoting the network’s entertainment and sports programming, including franchise nights for the NWSL and WNBA.
ION’s coverage of the upcoming WNBA season, starting on May 17, will include weekly studio shows, marking a first for a linear network providing such coverage for the league. Similarly, ION has developed studio shows for the NWSL that include pre-match, halftime, and post-match coverage – another first by any network.
In addition to its sports coverage, ION will also broadcast live from the Scripps National Spelling Bee semifinals and finals on May 29th and 30th respectively. The network will continue showing hour-long dramas like “Bull,” “Magnum P.I.”, “Blue Bloods” among others. Looking ahead to 2024, ION aims to attract broader audiences with a variety of programming options.
