In the fragmenting world of sports media, Scripps is making a definitive play for the “cord-never” generation. On Tuesday, the ION parent company launched Scripps Sports Network, a FAST channel designed to be the connective tissue between its local broadcast deals and its burgeoning national women’s sports portfolio.
While traditional regional sports networks (RSNs) are teetering on the brink of extinction, Scripps is zigging where others zagged. By committing to over 100 live game broadcasts—including the PWHL, NWSL, and Major League Volleyball—the network is turning “free-to-stream” into a premium destination.
The timing is surgical. Launching just 24 hours before their “Upfront” event at the Barclays Center, Scripps is handing advertisers a turnkey solution: high-engagement live sports without the barrier of a cable subscription.
The “Star Power” Pivot
Perhaps the most intriguing element is the recruitment of Suzy Kolber. Following her high-profile exit from ESPN in 2023, Kolber returns to lead a series on sports trailblazers. Alongside Sanya Richards-Ross, Scripps is signaling that this isn’t just a “replay” channel—it’s an original content engine.
By blending live PWHL games (starting this Wednesday at 7 PM ET) with lifestyle content like Kevin Hart’s Cold as Balls, Scripps is attempting to build a 24/7 ecosystem that keeps the viewer tuned in long after the final whistle.