ESPN and the NCAA announced that 40 NCAA championships will be on ESPN networks for the next eight years, including women’s basketball, volleyball, baseball, and softball.
“ESPN and the NCAA have enjoyed a strong and collaborative relationship for more than four decades, and we are thrilled that it will continue as part of this new, long-term agreement,” said ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro.
According to ESPN, the agreement includes rights to 21 women’s championships and 19 men’s. Division I women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, women’s gymnastics and the Football Championship Subdivision title game will all be on network television (ABC). More than 800 hours of NCAA championships will appear on ESPN linear networks throughout the year, with more than 2,300 combined on linear and digital platforms. The broadcasting schedule will be spread across different seasons, ensuring a year-round supply of thrilling sports action.
Women’s championships included are soccer, field hockey, all divisions of volleyball, cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field, swimming and diving, all divisions of basketball, ice hockey, bowling, gymnastics, fencing, beach volleyball, lacrosse, tennis, softball, and water polo.
“Over the past several years, ESPN has demonstrated increased investment in NCAA championships coverage, and the Association is pleased to continue to provide a platform for student-athletes to shine,” Charlie Baker said. “Having one, multi-platform home to showcase our championships provides additional growth potential along with a greater experience for the viewer and our student-athletes.”
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