What's Happening?
The Mountain West Conference has announced a new media rights package in collaboration with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW Network, and Kiswe. This agreement, which spans six years for CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and Kiswe, and five years for The CW Network, aims to provide extensive visibility and coverage for Mountain West sports. The deal includes broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms for football, men's and women's basketball, and a variety of Olympic sports. The partnerships are described as the broadest media distribution plan in the conference's history, offering national linear visibility and a comprehensive digital presence. CBS Sports will continue its long-standing relationship with the conference, showcasing top games, while FOX Sports will highlight
elite college sports, including the Mountain West football championship. The CW Network joins as a national broadcast partner, enhancing the conference's exposure.
Why It's Important?
This media rights package is significant as it enhances the visibility of the Mountain West Conference, potentially increasing its national profile and attracting more fans. The involvement of major networks like CBS, FOX, and The CW ensures that the conference's sports events reach a wide audience, which could lead to increased revenue through advertising and sponsorships. For student-athletes, this exposure provides a platform to showcase their talents on a national stage, which could lead to more opportunities in professional sports. Additionally, the comprehensive digital presence through Kiswe's streaming capabilities aligns with the growing trend of sports consumption via digital platforms, catering to a younger, tech-savvy audience.
What's Next?
The implementation of this media rights package will likely lead to strategic planning by the Mountain West Conference to maximize the benefits of the increased exposure. Schools within the conference may also explore ways to leverage this visibility to enhance their athletic programs and attract top talent. The networks involved will begin scheduling and promoting the Mountain West games, potentially leading to increased competition for viewership with other conferences. Fans can expect more accessible and diverse ways to engage with Mountain West sports, both through traditional broadcasts and digital platforms.
