WNBA Secures New Media Deal with Scripps

On Friday, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) revealed a fresh multi-year media partnership that will feature Friday night games on the Ion network.

This partnership introduces 'WNBA on Ion,' a pioneering weekly show dedicated solely to WNBA coverage.

While the specifics of the deal's value remain confidential, earlier reports pegged the previous agreement, which runs out after the 2025 season, at an unspecified average amount.

Since 2023, WNBA games have been showcased on Ion, and this year the channel plans to air around 50 regular-season matchups. As stated in a news release by CNBC Sport, Ion reaches over 128 million homes via cable TV and streaming services.

This expansion comes on the heels of significant growth in viewership for the WNBA on Ion, propelled by high-profile athletes such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.

The network reported a 133% year-over-year increase in viewership for its WNBA Friday Night Spotlight, drawing in more than 23 million unique viewers.

Statements from Leadership

Scripps CEO Adam Symson emphasized the flourishing collaboration with the WNBA, underscoring Ion's commitment to becoming the preeminent hub for Friday night WNBA excitement.

Cathy Engelbert, the Commissioner of the WNBA, acknowledged that the alliance with Scripps has been instrumental in enhancing both the league's exposure and its fan base.

"This long-term agreement signals the increasing enthusiasm and demand for WNBA events," Engelbert noted.

Background Context

Previously, the WNBA signed a significant 11-year media rights contract with other networks, as part of broader negotiations with the NBA, which is valued at around $200 million annually.