Warner Bros. Discovery is setting its sights on acquiring media rights for the WNBA, signaling a potential expansion in its sports broadcasting portfolio. Meanwhile, iconic New York Yankees announcer John Sterling has retired after a notable broadcasting career, Charles Barkley’s talk show on CNN has been canceled, and ESPN is developing a “30 For 30” documentary to honor the late Stuart Scott.
Warner Bros. Discovery Eyes WNBA Broadcasting Rights:
Warner Bros. Discovery, a longstanding NBA broadcast partner, has shown interest in the WNBA’s broadcasting rights, as reported by The Athletic. This marks a significant shift, as the network looks to diversify its sports coverage. The deal, likely modeled after its NBA agreements, could enhance visibility and support for women’s basketball, complementing existing agreements with Disney, CBS Sports, Scripps (ION), and Amazon Prime Video.
End of an Era: Yankees’ Sterling Steps Down:
John Sterling, the voice of the New York Yankees on radio, announced his immediate retirement, closing a 64-year chapter in sports broadcasting. Sterling, who has been a fixture since 1960, expressed a longstanding desire to retire, suggesting that he perhaps should have stepped down sooner.
Charles Barkley’s CNN Show Concludes:
The CNN talk show “King Charles,” hosted by Charles Barkley and Gayle King, has ended after a brief run. Initiated as a limited series, the show struggled with Barkley’s limited availability and did not fit into CNN’s broader programming strategy, which has been undergoing changes since the departure of executive Chris Licht.
ESPN Celebrates Stuart Scott with Documentary:
ESPN is in the process of creating a “30 For 30” documentary focused on Stuart Scott, a beloved SportsCenter anchor who passed away in 2015. The documentary will explore Scott’s unique style, cultural impact, and his courageous battle with cancer, aiming to celebrate his legacy and enduring influence on sports broadcasting.