Definition
Scripps Sports is a sports broadcasting division of the E.W. Scripps Company, a U.S. media conglomerate. The unit is responsible for acquiring, producing, and distributing sports content across the company’s television stations and digital platforms.
Overview
The division was announced in early 2023 as part of Scripps’ strategic expansion into live sports programming, an area traditionally dominated by major networks and dedicated sports broadcasters. Since its inception, Scripps Sports has pursued regional broadcast rights for collegiate and professional sports, leveraging the company’s portfolio of local television stations in markets across the United States. Notable acquisitions include:
- Local television rights to select Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) football and basketball games, broadcast on affiliated Scripps stations.
- Partnerships with professional leagues and conferences to air games, highlights, and related content on over‑the‑air (OTA) channels and streaming services.
The division’s activities aim to increase viewership for Scripps’ stations, diversify revenue streams, and provide advertisers with access to live‑event audiences.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Scripps Sports” combines the corporate surname “Scripps,” derived from the founding family of the E.W. Scripps Company, with the generic term “Sports” to denote its focus on sports programming. The term first appeared in public announcements and press releases issued by the E.W. Scripps Company in January 2023.
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Parent organization | E.W. Scripps Company (publicly traded media company) |
| Primary function | Acquisition, production, and distribution of live and ancillary sports content |
| Distribution channels | Over‑the‑air broadcast via Scripps-owned local TV stations; digital streaming platforms owned or partnered with the company |
| Target markets | Regional U.S. markets where Scripps stations operate; national exposure through syndicated arrangements |
| Key partnerships | Collegiate athletic conferences (e.g., ACC), professional sports leagues, and independent production companies |
| Revenue model | Advertising sales during live broadcasts, sponsorships, sublicensing of broadcast rights, and digital monetization |
Related Topics
- E.W. Scripps Company – the parent media organization.
- Local television broadcasting – the medium through which Scripps Sports primarily distributes content.
- Sports broadcasting rights – the market for acquiring permission to air live sporting events.
- Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) – a collegiate athletic conference whose games have been part of Scripps Sports’ portfolio.
- Over‑the‑air (OTA) television – a distribution method leveraged by the division for regional sports coverage.