Ahead of Upfront presentations The E.W. Scripps Company has launched sports-focused #FAST channel Scripps Sports Network, featuring live matchups, original exclusive and acquired series and video podcasts. It builds on the broadcaster’s sports content acquisition strategy that’s focused on women’s and emerging sports. Scripps CRO Brian Norris told me part of the message and shift the company hopes to help drive in 2026 is countering the notion that “free streaming” equates with discount - instead presenting a premium environment for both viewers and advertisers thanks to live sports and investments in related programming. And he believes the FAST channel “creates a specific opportunity and value” for small-to-mid-sized advertisers and DTC brands (a market CTV at large has been working to better court and cater to) which have the chance to secure sponsorship positions in emerging sports. Some that will be available on the channel include Professional Women’s Hockey League, Major League Volleyball and the Pro Cheer League. Read more about the channel launch and strategy in my piece on StreamTV Insider. https://lnkd.in/erB7sv6n
