ESPN – Page 2 – TVMEG.NEWS

ESPN Raises $2.87 Million During the 2022 ESPYS Week Initiative for the V Foundation

Posted on September 6, 2022 by Danielle Langer

ESPN Raises $2.87 Million During the 2022 ESPYS Week Initiative for the V Foundation
Since inception in 1993, the ESPYS Week initiative has raised more than $55.5 million in donations. In total, ESPN has helped raise over $169.6 million for the V Foundation.
[via press release from ESPN]
ESPN Raises $2.87 Million during the 2022 ESPYS Week Initiative for the V Foundation

Total raised by ESPN reaches over $169.6 million

ESPN announced today that the 2022 ESPYS Week initiative raised $2.87 million in support of the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Overall, individual giving was up 909%, with an increase of individual donors up 694% compared to the 2021 ESPYS Week.

Since inception in 1993, the ESPYS Week initiative has raised more than $55.5 million in donations. In total, ESPN has helped raise over $169.6 million for the V Foundation.

“We have been living through unprecedented times over the past few years, yet this year fans, donors including the sports leagues, and employees went above and beyond in support of cancer research during this year’s ESPYS,” said Kevin Martinez, vice president of ESPN Corporate Citizenship. “We cannot thank the legendary Dick Vitale enough for his inspiring words during the show, along with many others involved for their tremendous amount of support to date. The amount raised is an encouraging sign as we continue to strive to one day achieve victory over cancer.”

In addition, ESPYS sponsors and sports leagues donated more than $1 million to support the V Foundation during this year’s ESPYS Week including Bristol Meyers Squibb, Capital One, Expedia, Gatorade, Google, Champion, MassMutual and MolsonCoors and league sponsors such as MLB, MLS, NBA, WNBA, NHL, NFL, PGA TOUR, UFC, USTA and WWE.

There is still time to help the V Foundation reach its $1 million match through the end of September, with funds going to pediatric cancer. For more information, go to V.org to support.

About the V Foundation for Cancer Research

The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator. The V Foundation has funded nearly $290 million in game-changing cancer research grants nationwide through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to accelerating Victory Over Cancer(R). To learn more, visit v.org.

About ESPN Corporate Citizenship

ESPN believes that, at its very best, sports uplift the human spirit. Its corporate citizenship programs use power of sport to positively address society’s needs through strategic community investments, cause marketing programs, collaboration with sports organizations and employee volunteerism, while also utilizing its diverse media assets. For more information go to www.espn.com/citizenship.

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ESPN’s Primetime Coverage Is the Most-Viewed US Open Early Round Telecast

Posted on September 2, 2022 by Danielle Langer

ESPN’s Primetime Coverage Is the Most-Viewed US Open Early Round Telecast Ever on ESPN Networks
The audience averaged 2.3 million viewers for “PrimeTime at the US Open presented by IBM” (7:00pm – 12:31am), an increase of +289% over last year, versus Day Three of last year’s primetime telecast.
[via press release from ESPN]
ESPN’s Primetime Coverage is the Most-Viewed US Open Early Round Telecast Ever on ESPN Networks

ESPN Wins Wednesday Night — Most-Viewed Broadcast or Cable Network Among Men and Adults

Tonight on ESPN2: Serena and Venus Williams in Doubles at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Friday Round Three: Serena Plays Tomljanovic on network at 7 p.m. ET

To Subscribe to ESPN+

Wednesday night’s US Open match with the legendary Serena Williams – in what is expected to be her final event and defeating Anett Kontaveit of Estonia in a dramatic and well-played second-round contest 7-6, 2-6, 6-2 – peaked in the last quarter hour (9:30-9:45 p.m.) with 5 million viewers. The audience averaged 2.3 million viewers for PrimeTime at the US Open presented by IBM (7:00pm – 12:31am), an increase of +289% over last year, versus Day Three of last year’s primetime telecast.

Williams v. Kontaveit also helped ESPN win the night among all broadcast or cable networks among Men and Adults 18-34, 18-49 and 25-54 and placed it as the second most-viewed network among households and P2+.

Williams’ next match will be Friday, Sept. 2, at 7 p.m. vs. Ajla Tomljanovich, a 29-year-old from Croatia currently ranked No. 46 in the world. The two have never played.

Williams Sisters in Doubles Tonight on ESPN2

Tonight, on ESPN2 at 7p.m. ET, Williams and her sister Venus – who are 14-0 in Major finals in women’s doubles and have won three Olympic Gold Medals in women’s doubles – will team to play their first-round match. Across the net they will see Czech compatriots Lucie Hradecka, a two-time Major champion in women’s doubles with one also in mixed doubles, and Linda Noskova who is playing doubles for the first time in a Major tournament. The two are 20 years apart, at 37 and 17, respectively. The second match on Ashe will be a meeting of 22-time Major winner No. 2 Rafael Nadal and Fabio Fognini of Italy, 35 and ranked No. 60.

Friday at the US Open (all times ET)

ESPN begins at noon and continues non-stop through the evening with the first day of Third Round matches.

· Ashe Stadium:

o Starting at noon, Andy Murray will face No. 13 Matteo Berrettini, followed by an All-American match up of No. 12 Coco Gauff and No. 20 Madison Keys.

o Starting at 7 p.m., Serena Williams will meet Ajla Tomljanovic, followed by defending US Open champion Daniil Medvedev vs. Yibing Wu of China.

· Armstrong Stadium:

o Starting at 11 a.m., No. 5 Ons Jabeur faces. No. 31 Shelby Rogers of South Carolina, followed by No. 5 Casper Ruud vs. American Tommy Paul and No. 29 Alison Riske-Amritraj from Pittsburgh playing Xiyu Wang of China.

o The 7 p.m. doubleheader will start with 2019 winner Bianca Andreescu and No. 17 Caroline Garcia and conclude with Nick Kyrgios meeting J.J. Wolf of Ohio who was the top-ranked college player in the U.S. in 2019 while at Ohio State.

ESPN & the 2022 US Open – Third Round

Date Time (ET) Network(s) Event

Mon Aug 29 – Thurs Sept 8 11 a.m. ESPN+, ESPN3 Up to 16 courts in action

Fri Sept 2 11 a.m. ESPN Deportes Third Round Noon ESPN 6 p.m. ESPN2 7 p.m. ESPN Primetime at the US Open presented by IBM – Third Round ESPN Deportes Third Round 10 p.m. ESPN2 Continued: Primetime at the US Open presented by IBM – Third Round

* The Western Michigan at Michigan State college football game previously scheduled to air on ESPN at 7pm ET will now air on ESPN2 at that same time.

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“Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” Readies for Second Season

Posted on September 1, 2022 by Danielle Langer

ESPN and Omaha Productions’ Emmy-Award Winning “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” Readies for Second Season
The ESPN and Omaha Productions’ joint venture will produce 10 Monday Night Football alternate presentations throughout the season, continuing the extensive relationship between The Walt Disney Company and Peyton Manning’s production company.
[via press release from ESPN]
ESPN and Omaha Productions’ Emmy-Award Winning “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” Readies for Second Season

o Let’s Ride: Russell Wilson’s Return to Seattle in Week 1 Launches 10-Game Slate

o Cowboys-Giants, Rams-49ers in Season’s First Month, Rams at Packers in a December Showdown

o Each Alternate Telecast Available on ESPN2 with Multiple Simulcasts on ESPN+

The Emmy-award winning Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli, with its off-the-cuff commentary, authentic reactions, entertaining facial expressions and treasure trove of guests, rides into its second season when Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos travel to Seattle for the regular season debut of ESPN’s Monday Night Football (Sept. 12, 8 p.m. ET). The ESPN and Omaha Productions’ joint venture will produce 10 Monday Night Football alternate presentations throughout the season, continuing the extensive relationship between The Walt Disney Company and Peyton Manning’s production company.

Following the second season premiere, Peyton and Eli return in Week 3 for the Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants and Week 4 when the Super Bowl Champion Los Angeles Rams travel to the San Francisco 49ers. Later in the season, Joe Burrow and the Bengals take on their in-state rival Cleveland Browns (Week 8), Tom Brady and the Buccaneers host the Saints (Week 13), and Matthew Stafford’s Rams head to reigning back-to-back MVP Aaron Rodgers and the Packers (Week 15). The Super Wild Card Monday night matchup will conclude the season.

ESPN2 will televise all editions of Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli, with four presentations simulcast on ESPN+. The alternate presentation will go live right before kickoff once again, at approximately 8:13 p.m. ET. Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli will also be available to stream on mobile with NFL+.

Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli – 2022 Schedule

NFL Week Date Monday Night Football Game Network
1 Sept. 12 Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks ESPN2, ESPN+
3 Sept. 26 Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants ESPN2, ESPN+
4 Oct. 3 Los Angeles Rams at San Francisco 49ers ESPN2
7 Oct. 24 Chicago Bears at New England Patriots ESPN2
8 Oct. 31 Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns ESPN2
9 Nov. 7 Baltimore Ravens at New Orleans Saints ESPN2
13 Dec. 5 New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers ESPN2
14 Dec. 12 New England Patriots at Arizona Cardinals ESPN2
15 Dec. 19 Los Angeles Rams at Green Bay Packers ESPN2, ESPN+
Super Wild Card Weekend Jan. 16 TBD ESPN2, ESPN+

The More Things Change, More They Look the Same

The Super Bowl champion brothers will return to their familiar remote settings, with Peyton on his Denver couch and Eli on his couch in his New Jersey basement. Before and after the halftime meal, Peyton and Eli will welcome stars from across genres into the telecast. Through it all, fans will be entertained with a unique blend of real-time football commentary, sibling needling, and whatever else is on everyone’s mind.

Building on a Successful Foundation

In its first season, Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli assisted in Monday Night Football delivering its most-watched season since 2010, and the alternate production was recognized with a Sports Emmy in May, winning Outstanding Live Television Series.

Alternate Productions Continue across Golf, UFC, and College Football

In February, The Walt Disney Company/ESPN and Omaha Productions deepened their relationship, adding alternate productions around golf, UFC and college football. Since the announcement, PGA Championship with Joe Buck & Michael Collins and UFC 278 with The Gronks have debuted, with Pat McAfee set to host college football alternate telecasts this season.

About Omaha Productions

Omaha Productions is an entertainment company launched by Peyton Manning following his retirement from the NFL. Omaha focuses on developing content that champions hard work, encourages the pursuit of passion, and celebrates community.

Omaha Productions executive produces ESPN’s Emmy-award-winning “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” along with alternative telecasts for college football, golf, and the UFC. The company also serves as executive producer on “NFL Honors” and ESPN+’s PLACES franchise featuring series from Peyton Manning, in conjunction with NFL Films, Eli Manning, Abby Wambach, Vince Carter, David Ortiz, Ronda Rousey, P.K. Subban, Sue Bird, and John McEnroe. The company also has series at ABC, A+E Networks, NBCUniversal, and Netflix. The Omaha Audio Network provides daily sports talk in partnership with ESPN and Caesars Sportsbook.

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ESPN Films Announces 30 for 30 Documentary “American Son”

Posted on September 1, 2022 by Danielle Langer

ESPN Films Announces 30 for 30 Documentary “American Son” on Tennis Player Michael Chang
“American Son” will tell the story of Chang’s improbable rise as a young American tennis star, and his family’s immigrant journey which shaped his destiny.
[via press release from ESPN]
ESPN Films Announces 30 for 30 Documentary “American Son” on Tennis Player Michael Chang

Film is directed by Jay Caspian Kang, executive produced by ESPN Films in Association with Words + Pictures

ESPN Films today announced that production has completed on a 30 for 30 documentary about former tennis player Michael Chang, with New Yorker and The New York Times writer and Emmy nominated correspondent, Jay Caspian Kang, on board for his directorial debut. “American Son” will tell the story of Chang’s improbable rise as a young American tennis star, and his family’s immigrant journey which shaped his destiny. The story is centered around his winning the 1989 French Open at age 17, including his unforgettable upset of top ranked Ivan Lendl – a match that unfolded in the shadow of the Tiananmen Square massacre in China.

The documentary will be executive produced by ESPN Films in association with Words + Pictures, founded in 2021 by Connor Schell.. Phil de Picciotto, Peter Nelson, Tom Ross, and Kelly Wolf are also serving as Executive Producers. Among the interview subjects featured in the story are Chang, Lendl, Roger Federer, Jeremy Lin, and Brad Gilbert.

Further details will be announced at a later date.

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Serena a Sensation: Average of 2.7 Million Viewers See Her Win

Posted on August 31, 2022 by Danielle Langer

Serena a Sensation: Average of 2.7 Million Viewers See Her Win First Round Match at US Open
The audience peaked in the last quarter-hour (9 – 9:15 p.m. ET) at 3.2 million.
[via press release from ESPN]
Serena a Sensation: Average of 2.7 Million Viewers See Her Win First Round Match at US Open

Propels ESPN to Best Opening Day, Night since Acquiring Entire Event in 2015

Straight-Sets Victory Peaks in Final Stages with 3.2 Million Viewers

Prime-time ESPN Telecast Nearly Four Times the 2021 Audience

Wednesday: Serena Again in the Spotlight under the Lights on Ashe, Plays No. 2 Seed Anna Kontaveit at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN To Subscribe to ESPN+

Monday night’s US Open Opening Night match with the legendary Serena Williams – in what is expected to be her final event and defeating Danka Kovinic of Montenegro in a first-round contest 6-3, 6-3 – averaged 2.7 million viewers glued to the drama for the 1:45 match. The audience peaked in the last quarter-hour (9 – 9:15 p.m. ET) at 3.2 million.

The widespread anticipation for and attention across media to the near 41-year-old’s likely farewell appearance at tennis’ final Major tournament of the year – dating back to her debut in 1998 and including a record of six titles she shares with Chrissie Evert – helped boost ESPN viewership throughout the day from the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y.:

· The network averaged an ESPN first-day record of 1.7 million viewers for PrimeTime at the US Open presented by IBM (7 p.m. – 12:03 a.m. ET), an increase of 279% — nearly four-fold – over last year and up 40% over the previous high in 2019.

· The afternoon window on ESPN (noon – 7 p.m.) averaged the best for ESPN since its first year with exclusivity and first-ball-to-last-ball coverage in 2015 (680,000) with 626,000 viewers, up 44% from 2021.

· Combined, the total day average of 843,000 viewers was better than 2019’s previous best of 809,000 by 4%.

Beyond television, Monday was the most-trafficked US Open Opening Day for ESPN Digital Properties on record, two million unique users.

Wednesday at the US Open on ESPN

Tomorrow, ESPN begins at noon as usual and continues non-stop through the evening with Second Round matches.

· Ashe Stadium: Andy Murray, the 2012 champion, takes the court first at noon against American Emilio Nava, followed by No. 12 Coco Gauff. At 7 p.m., Serena Williams will challenge No. 2 Anna Kontaveit, followed by Daniil Medvedev, the top seed on the men’s side.

· Armstrong Stadium: Starting at 11 a.m., No. 3 Maria Sakkari, No. 20 Madison Keys and Nick Kyrgios all play. In prime time, it’s No. 6 Felix Auger-Aliassime and then 2019 winner Bianca Andreescu.

· Around the grounds, starting at 11 a.m. on either ESPN+ or ESPN3:

o On Grandstand, No. 5 Ons Jabeur will be first on, followed by No. 13 Matteo Berrettini, then a battle of Americans, No. 29 Tommy Paul and Sebastian Korda, ending with No. 14 Leylah Fernandez no earlier than 5 p.m.

o On Court 17, No. 31 Shelby Rogers of South Carolina plays first, followed by another American, Alison Riske-Amritraj, and then No. 5 Casper Ruud. Play there will conclude not before 5 p.m. with No. 27 Karan Khachanov.

ESPN & the 2022 US Open – Second Round

Date Time (ET) Network(s) Event

Mon Aug 29 – Thurs Sept 8 11 a.m. ESPN+, ESPN3 Up to 16 courts in action

Wed Aug 31 11 a.m. ESPN Deportes Second Round Noon ESPN 7 p.m. ESPN Primetime at the US Open presented by IBM – Second Round ESPN Deportes Second Round

Thu Sept 1 11 a.m. ESPN Deportes Second Round Noon ESPN 6 p.m. ESPN2 7 p.m. ESPN2 Primetime at the US Open presented by IBM – Second Round ESPN Deportes Second Round

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ESPN Re-Signs Prolific Group of Analysts

Posted on August 30, 2022 by Danielle Langer

ESPN Re-Signs Prolific Group of Analysts: Super Bowl Champions Steve Young, Booger McFarland and Jeff Saturday, Along with Three-Time Pro Bowler Alex Smith
The four analysts will continue to be showcased across ESPN’s studio programming on a regular basis, providing reaction to breaking news and top NFL storylines along with strategic insight into on-the-field and roster maneuvers.
[via press release from ESPN]
ESPN Re-Signs Prolific Group of Analysts: Super Bowl Champions Steve Young, Booger McFarland and Jeff Saturday, Along with Three-Time Pro Bowler Alex Smith

· McFarland Furthers Prominent Roles on Monday Night Countdown, NFL Primetime and ABC’s College Football Studio Shows, Plus NFL Draft and College Football Playoff Programming

· Young Continues on Monday Night Countdown with McFarland, Joins PTI Weekly

· Saturday to Surpass a Decade with ESPN, Continues on NFL Rewind with Significant Presence on Numerous Studio Offerings

· Smith to Join Multiple Monday Night Countdowns, Contribute to Additional Shows

ESPN has re-signed Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve Young, Super Bowl Champions Booger McFarland and Jeff Saturday, and Pro Bowl Quarterback Alex Smith ahead of the 2022 NFL Season. The four analysts will continue to be showcased across ESPN’s studio programming on a regular basis, providing reaction to breaking news and top NFL storylines along with strategic insight into on-the-field and roster maneuvers.

McFarland will continue to appear across NFL and college football programming for three consecutive days each football weekend, concluding with Monday Night Countdown. The 1999 first round pick out of LSU will continue to appear on ABC’s college football studio coverage each Saturday and NFL Primetime on Sundays alongside Chris Berman, with the iconic highlights show available on ESPN+. McFarland will also keep his integral role on ESPN’s coverage of the NFL Draft and ESPN’s College Football Playoff offerings.

Young will join McFarland on Monday Night Countdown and join Pardon the Interruption each Thursday during the season. Smith will also appear on select editions of Monday Night Countdown throughout the season, while contributing to Sunday NFL Countdown and additional shows with regularity. Young, McFarland and Smith remain a key component of ESPN’s extensive Super Bowl coverage.

Saturday will also be featured every Monday of the NFL season, appearing on NFL Rewind. The weekly highlights show kicks-off ESPN’s football-centric afternoon programming leading into Monday Night Football. Saturday remains a mainstay on Get Up, including his popular “Sat ‘Em Down” segment, SportsCenter and additional studio shows throughout the season.

ESPN’s Most-Watched Little League Softball World Series

Posted on August 23, 2022 by Danielle Langer

ESPN’s Most-Watched Little League Softball World Series
It averaged 294,000 viewers across ESPN and ESPN2, up 19 percent from last year and up 21 percent from 2019.
[via press release from ESPN]
ESPN’s Most-Watched Little League Softball World Series

August 14 Semifinal Game Draws Largest Little League Softball Audience Since 2018 Averaging 537,000 Viewers

Viewership for Regional Coverage of Little League Baseball World Series Up From Last Year

The 2022 Little League Softball World Series was ESPN’s most-watched since it expanded coverage of the tournament in 2017, according to Nielsen. It averaged 294,000 viewers across ESPN and ESPN2, up 19 percent from last year and up 21 percent from 2019. The increases occurred despite losing the primetime Little League Softball World Series Championship Game window due to inclement weather.

ESPN’s Little League Softball World Series coverage is also experiencing double-digit year over year viewership gains in key demos, including a 74 percent increase among teenagers and a 30 percent year increase among women.

The Little League Softball World Series Semifinal Game on August 14 between Hewitt, Texas and Chesterfield, Virginia was the tournament’s most-watched telecast since 2018. It averaged 537,000 viewers.

Additionally, viewership for the Little League Baseball World Series regional games averaged 558,000 viewers across ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU, up from 552,000 viewers in 2021. The most-watched game of this year’s baseball regionals was the Metro Regional Final between Massapequa, N.Y. and Toms River, N.J., which averaged 868,000 viewers. It’s the most-watched baseball regional on cable since 2019.

Viewership increases for both Little League Softball and Little League Baseball game coverage on ESPN platforms comes as the number of televised games continues to expand. ESPN’s Little League World Series coverage from Williamsport, Pa. is underway. For more information, including the broadcast schedule, visit ESPN Press Room.

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Dan Mullen Joins ESPN’s College Football Studio Coverage

Posted on August 23, 2022 by Danielle Langer

Dan Mullen Joins ESPN’s College Football Studio Coverage, Jesse Palmer Signs Multi-Year Extension as ESPN Reveals 2022-23 Studio Programming Lineup
Mullen joins anchor Kevin Connors, who is beginning his fourth season on the ESPN2 desk, and analyst Sam Acho returning on the regular ESPN2 studio crew.
[via press release from ESPN]
Dan Mullen Joins ESPN’s College Football Studio Coverage, Jesse Palmer Signs Multi-Year Extension as ESPN Reveals 2022-23 Studio Programming Lineup

· Mullen will contribute to College Football Saturdays on ESPN2, with additional studio appearances Thursdays and Fridays on ESPN

· ESPN signs Palmer to multi-year contract extension

ESPN has signed former Florida and Mississippi State head coach Dan Mullen as a college football studio analyst, contributing every Saturday on ESPN2 in addition to ESPN studio wraps on Thursday and Friday nights. Mullen joins anchor Kevin Connors, who is beginning his fourth season on the ESPN2 desk, and analyst Sam Acho returning on the regular ESPN2 studio crew.

Mullen boasts nearly three decades of coaching experience, including 13 as a head coach. He spent nine years at the helm of Mississippi State and a combined eight years at the University of Florida, first as offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach and returning to Gainesville as head coach from 2018-21. Mullen has joined ESPN and SEC Network throughout the past few years as a guest analyst, including at last year’s SEC Championship Game, as well as the past two College Football Playoff National Championships.

Connors’ wide-ranging studio assignments include regular editions of SportsCenter, college football and basketball wraps, as well as Major League Baseball. He has handled play-by-play for college basketball and MLB games on ESPN as well. Acho is back for his second season with ESPN and will also serve as a booth analyst for select college football games this fall.

ESPN Trio of Barrie, Galloway and Palmer Prepare for 2022-23 Season, Palmer Signs New Deal

SportsCenter anchor Matt Barrie enters his fourth season as host of ESPN’s Saturday college football studio coverage, continuing to work alongside analysts Joey Galloway and Jesse Palmer, who ESPN just signed to a multi-year contract extension. Barrie will also call ESPN Thursday night games this season with Louis Riddick and Harry Lyles Jr.

Galloway, now in his 12th season with ESPN, and Palmer, who joined ESPN in 2007 and also hosts ABC’s The Bachelor, continue their prominent studio roles. The former Ohio State All-American wide receiver and Florida quarterback, respectively, will contribute analysis to marquee ESPN college football programming throughout the season. In addition to their traditional studio wraps, Barrie, Galloway and Palmer will also close out each Saturday with College Football Final, highlighting the day in college football.

Negandhi and McFarland Team Up on ABC

Longtime host Kevin Negandhi and college football and NFL analyst Booger McFarland will team up for their third straight season in studio together, wrapping up Saturday action on ABC for the 2022-23 campaign. McFarland and Negandhi also worked together on ABC wraps during the 2017 season.

Beyond college football, McFarland contributes to studio programming across ESPN networks, including Get Up, SportsCenter, the annual NFL Draft presentation and Super Bowl week. The two-time Super Bowl champion is a regular cast member on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown, which recently announced its new lineup. Negandhi has anchored ABC’s college football studio coverage since 2017, and also hosts ESPN’s coverage of the Special Olympic World Games, the 6 p.m. ET SportsCenter and more.

Wendi Nix Returns as Host of ESPN’s College Football Live

Wendi Nix is back this fall as host of College Football Live, joined by a rotation of college football analysts throughout the season. Nix continues to host NFL Rewind, the Monday afternoon highlights show that recaps all of Sunday’s NFL games. Jen Lada will also host Friday editions of College Football Live from campus sites as part of her role on College GameDay Built by The Home Depot.

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Bang! ESPN and ABC’s Star-Studded 2022-23 NBA Television Schedule

Posted on August 19, 2022 by Danielle Langer

Bang! ESPN and ABC’s Star-Studded 2022-23 NBA Television Schedule
ESPN’s 2022-23 NBA game coverage tips off with a doubleheader on Wednesday, October 19, as the New York Knicks and new acquisition Jalen Brunson visit the Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant at 7:30 p.m. ET.
[via press release from ESPN]
Bang! ESPN and ABC’s Star-Studded 2022-23 NBA Television Schedule

100-Game Slate Features Blockbuster Matchups Across Christmas Day, NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC, ABC Sunday Showcase, Opening Week on ESPN, and More

Defending NBA Champion Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry Lead the Way with 18 Appearances, Including Christmas Day vs. Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant in Grizzlies First Christmas Appearance

Grizzlies Host New York Knicks; Phoenix Suns Host Dallas Mavericks in ESPN’s Season-Opening Doubleheader on October 19

NBA Finals Rematch between Warriors and Boston Celtics Tips off NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC series on December 10

ESPN and ABC will combine to nationally televise 100 NBA regular season games during the 2022-2023 campaign. The schedule, officially unveiled on ESPN’s NBA Today (August 17), will feature blockbuster matchups and the game’s highest-profile superstars across Christmas Day, NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC, ABC Sunday Showcase, opening week on ESPN and more. This season marks ESPN’s 21st consecutive year televising NBA games.

In addition to the regular season, ESPN will televise several NBA preseason games, as well as up to 44 NBA Playoffs telecasts, culminating with exclusive coverage of the NBA Finals on ABC, starting June 1, 2023. ESPN will also exclusively televise the 2023 Western Conference Finals. All ESPN and ABC NBA telecasts are available to stream via the ESPN App. The NBA Countdown pregame show precedes NBA game coverage throughout the season, generally beginning 30 minutes prior to the game.

Opening Week on ESPN Features Defending NBA Champion Golden State Warriors

ESPN’s 2022-23 NBA game coverage tips off with a doubleheader on Wednesday, October 19, as the New York Knicks and new acquisition Jalen Brunson visit the Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant at 7:30 p.m. ET. The telecast will be exclusively on ESPN in the New York market. Then, the Phoenix Suns and Devin Booker host the Dallas Mavericks and Luka Dončić at 10 p.m. in an exclusive telecast in the Phoenix market.

ESPN’s opening week coverage continues on Friday, October 21 when the Boston Celtics and Jayson Tatum visit the Miami Heat and Jimmy Butler in a rematch of the Eastern Conference Finals at 7:30 p.m. The telecast is exclusively on ESPN in the Boston market. In the nightcap, the defending NBA Champion Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry host the Denver Nuggets and reigning NBA M.V.P. Nikola Jokić at 10 p.m.

Schedule highlights:

· 18 appearances by the defending NBA Champion Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry;

· 16 appearances by the defending Eastern Conference Champion Boston Celtics and Jayson Tatum;

· 16 appearances by the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James;

· 14 appearances each by the Dallas Mavericks and Luka Dončić and the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo;

· Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant to make first Christmas Day appearance in franchise history and 11 overall appearances;

· ESPN’s NBA Thanksgiving Eve tradition continues: Boston Celtics host Dallas Mavericks; Golden State Warriors host LA Clippers on November 23;

· NBA Finals rematch tips off NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC series on December 10: Boston Celtics vs. Golden State Warriors;

· NBA Playoffs rematches on Christmas Day: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Boston Celtics; Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors;

· NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC tripleheader on January 28 as part of NBA Rivals Week: Denver Nuggets vs. Philadelphia 76ers; New York Knicks vs. Brooklyn Nets; Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics;

· NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC on February 11 – LeBron James vs. Stephen Curry – as Los Angeles Lakers square off with the Golden State Warriors;

· All NBA on ABC regular season games are fully exclusive.

ESPN and ABC NBA Christmas Day Presented by State Farm

(Sunday, December 25, 2022)
Time (ET) Game Platform (s)
12 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks ESPN
2:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks ABC, ESPN
5 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Boston Celtics ABC, ESPN
8 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors ABC, ESPN
10:30 p.m. Phoenix Suns vs. Denver Nuggets ESPN

NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC Schedule
Date Time (ET) Game
Dec. 10 8:30 p.m. Boston Celtics vs. Golden State Warriors
Jan. 14 1 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Miami Heat
Jan. 28 3 p.m. Denver Nuggets vs. Philadelphia 76ers 5:30 p.m. New York Knicks vs. Brooklyn Nets 8:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Boston Celtics
Feb. 4 8:30 p.m. Dallas Mavericks vs. Golden State Warriors
Feb. 11 8:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors
Feb. 25 8:30 p.m. Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Mar. 4 8:30 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Mar. 11 8:30 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Golden State Warriors

ABC Sunday Showcase presented by Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Schedule
Date Time (ET) Game
Feb. 12 2 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Boston Celtics
Feb. 26 1 p.m. Phoenix Suns vs. Milwaukee Bucks 3:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks
Mar. 5 1 p.m. Phoenix Suns vs. Dallas Mavericks 3:30 p.m. Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers

NBA on ESPN Schedule
Date Time (ET) Game
Wed, Oct. 19 7:30 p.m. New York Knicks* vs. Memphis Grizzlies
Wed, Oct. 19 10 p.m. Dallas Mavericks vs. Phoenix Suns*
Fri, Oct. 21 7:30 p.m. Boston Celtics* vs. Miami Heat
Fri, Oct. 21 10 p.m. Denver Nuggets vs. Golden State Warriors
Wed, Oct. 26 7:30 p.m. Brooklyn Nets vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Wed, Oct. 26 10 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets
Fri, Oct. 28 7:30 p.m. Indiana Pacers vs. Washington Wizards
Fri, Oct. 28 10 p.m. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Phoenix Suns
Wed, Nov. 2 7:30 p.m. Charlotte Hornets vs. Chicago Bulls
Wed, Nov. 2 10 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Portland Trail Blazers
Fri, Nov. 4 7:30 p.m. Chicago Bulls* vs. Boston Celtics
Fri, Nov. 4 10 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
Wed, Nov. 9 7:30 p.m. New York Knicks vs. Brooklyn Nets
Wed, Nov. 9 10 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. LA Clippers
Fri, Nov. 11 9:30 p.m. Minnesota Timberwolves vs Memphis Grizzlies
Wed, Nov. 16 7:30 p.m. Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks
Wed, Nov. 16 10 p.m. Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns
Fri, Nov. 18 7:30 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Fri, Nov. 18 10 p.m. New York Knicks vs. Golden State Warriors
Wed, Nov. 23 7:30 p.m. Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics
Wed, Nov. 23 10 p.m. LA Clippers* vs. Golden State Warriors
Fri, Dec. 2 7:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Fri, Dec. 2 10 p.m. Chicago Bulls* vs. Golden State Warriors
Wed, Dec. 7 7:30 p.m. Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks
Wed, Dec. 7 10 p.m. Boston Celtics vs. Phoenix Suns
Fri, Dec. 9 7:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers** vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Fri, Dec. 9 10 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Dallas Mavericks
Wed, Dec. 14 7:30 p.m. New York Knicks vs. Chicago Bulls
Wed, Dec. 14 10 p.m. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. LA Clippers
Fri, Dec. 16 7:30 p.m. Golden State Warriors vs. Philadelphia 76ers*
Fri, Dec. 16 10 p.m. Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Fri, Dec. 23 10 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Phoenix Suns
Sun, Dec. 25 12 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers* vs. New York Knicks*
Sun, Dec. 25 10:30 p.m. Phoenix Suns* vs. Denver Nuggets*
Wed, Jan. 4 7:30 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Toronto Raptors
Wed, Jan. 4 10 p.m. Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Fri, Jan. 6 7:30 p.m. Chicago Bulls vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Fri, Jan. 6 10 p.m. Miami Heat vs. Phoenix Suns
Wed, Jan. 11 7:30 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Atlanta Hawks
Wed, Jan. 11 10 p.m. Houston Rockets vs. Sacramento Kings
Fri, Jan. 13 7:30 p.m. Golden State Warriors** vs. San Antonio Spurs
Fri, Jan. 13 10 p.m. Denver Nuggets vs. LA Clippers
Wed, Jan. 18 7:30 p.m. Atlanta Hawks vs. Dallas Mavericks
Wed, Jan. 18 10 p.m. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets
Fri, Jan. 20 7:30 p.m. Miami Heat vs. Dallas Mavericks
Fri, Jan. 20 10 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Wed, Jan. 25 7:30 p.m. Brooklyn Nets vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Wed, Jan. 25 10 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Golden State Warriors
Wed, Feb. 1 7:30 p.m. Brooklyn Nets vs. Boston Celtics
Wed, Feb. 1 10 p.m. Atlanta Hawks vs. Phoenix Suns
Sun, Feb. 5 6 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks*
Wed, Feb. 8 7:30 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics
Wed, Feb. 8 10 p.m. Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Clippers
Fri, Feb. 10 7:30 p.m. Charlotte Hornets vs. Boston Celtics
Fri, Feb. 10 10 p.m. Cleveland Cavaliers vs. New Orleans Pelicans
Wed, Feb. 15 7:30 p.m. Miami Heat vs. Brooklyn Nets
Wed, Feb. 15 10 p.m. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Fri, Feb. 24 7:30 p.m. Miami Heat vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Fri, Feb. 24 10 p.m. Brooklyn Nets vs. Chicago Bulls
Sun, Feb. 26 7:30 p.m. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors
Sun, Feb. 26 10 p.m. Los Angeles Clippers vs. Denver Nuggets
Wed, Mar. 1 7:30 p.m. Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Boston Celtics
Wed, Mar. 1 10 p.m. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Portland Trail Blazers
Fri, Mar. 3 7:30 p.m. Brooklyn Nets vs. Boston Celtics
Fri, Mar. 3 10 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Denver Nuggets
Sun, Mar. 5 7:30 p.m. New York Knicks* vs. Boston Celtics
Sun, Mar. 5 10 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. LA Clippers
Wed, Mar. 8 7:30 p.m. Dallas Mavericks vs. New Orleans Pelicans
Wed, Mar. 8 10 p.m. Toronto Raptors vs. LA Clippers
Sun, Mar. 12 9 p.m. New York Knicks* vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Mon, Mar. 13 7:30 p.m. Memphis Grizzlies vs. Dallas Mavericks
Mon, Mar. 13 10 p.m. Phoenix Suns vs. Golden State Warriors
Wed, Mar. 15 7:30 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Wed, Mar. 15 10 p.m. Golden State Warriors vs. LA Clippers
Wed, Mar. 22 7:30 p.m. Golden State Warriors** vs. Dallas Mavericks
Wed, Mar. 22 10 p.m. Phoenix Suns vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Wed, Mar. 29 7:30 p.m. Dallas Mavericks vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Wed, Mar. 29 10 p.m. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Phoenix Suns
Wed, Apr. 5 7:30 p.m. Chicago Bulls vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Wed, Apr. 5 10 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers vs. LA Clippers
Sun, Apr. 9 1 p.m. TBD
Sun, Apr. 9 3:30 p.m. TBD

*Exclusive ESPN telecast in local market

**Subject to local blackout restrictions

In addition to ESPN and ABC, ESPN Radio and ESPN Deportes carry NBA games throughout the season. Schedules for those platforms will be released soon.

ESPN’s NBA Today airs Monday through Friday year-round at 3 p.m. ET and provides in-depth coverage, news and access through its diverse cast of analysts and insiders. The show regularly travels to the site of the most significant events of the season.

ESPN’s Hoop Streams, available on ESPN digital and social media platforms, precedes the highest-profile NBA games throughout the regular season and postseason, including the NBA Finals. The on-site pregame show regularly features special guests, including top ESPN analysts.

ESPN platforms also exclusively televises the NBA Draft, NBA Draft Lottery, NBA Draft Combine, Celebrity All-Star Game and special alternate presentations as part of its overall annual NBA coverage.

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Together Again: ESPN Re-Signs Hall of Famer Randy Moss

Posted on August 17, 2022 by Danielle Langer

Together Again: ESPN Re-Signs Hall of Famer Randy Moss, Three-Time Pro Bowler Matt Hasselbeck, Super Bowl Champion Tedy Bruschi and Accomplished Host Sam Ponder as “Sunday NFL Countdown” Returns Same Cast for 2022 NFL Season
NFL senior insider Chris Mortensen also has a new agreement, extending his 30+ year tenure with ESPN, as does NFL senior insider Adam Schefter, which was announced in March.
[via press release from ESPN]
Together Again: ESPN Re-Signs Hall of Famer Randy Moss, Three-Time Pro Bowler Matt Hasselbeck, Super Bowl Champion Tedy Bruschi and Accomplished Host Sam Ponder as “Sunday NFL Countdown” Returns Same Cast for 2022 NFL Season

o Super Bowl Champion Rex Ryan, Senior NFL Insiders Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen Also Return

o Show Begins Week One, Continues through Super Bowl Sunday

ESPN’s complete Sunday NFL Countdown roster returns for its sixth season together (2017 – present), with the multi-year re-signings of Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss, Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, and Super Bowl Champion Tedy Bruschi, along with versatile host Sam Ponder. NFL senior insider Chris Mortensen also has a new agreement, extending his 30+ year tenure with ESPN, as does NFL senior insider Adam Schefter, which was announced in March. Super Bowl Champion coach Rex Ryan, who joined ESPN in 2017, is in the midst of a multi-year contract.

“The Sunday NFL Countdown group has created such strong chemistry and has clearly built a connection with our fans,” said Seth Markman, ESPN vice president and executive producer. “Our blend of perspectives and personalities is perfect for fresh, insightful on-the-field analysis and conversation, regardless of the storyline or breaking news in a given week. It was critical for us to maintain the momentum moving forward.”

Sunday NFL Countdown will make its 2022 season debut in Week 1 on Sunday, Sept. 11 (10 a.m. – 1 p.m.), as the longtime weekly pregame show originates from ESPN’s Seaport Studios in New York City for the third consecutive season. The three-hour show continues every Sunday morning through Super Bowl Sunday on February 12, 2023. Special Saturday episodes will air for three consecutive weeks, beginning with Week 18 (January 7) and continuing with Super Wild Card Weekend (January 14) and Divisional Weekend (January 21).

Each week, fans can expect fresh analysis and insight from Moss, Hasselbeck, Bruschi and Ryan on the most significant games and storylines. Schefter and Mortensen will provide the latest news from around the league, a staple of Sunday NFL Countdown as the weekend slate looms. Countdown reporters will be stationed at stadiums around the country, providing the latest news from key sites. Award-winning storytelling also will return, through features and interviews.

And, back again, is the fan and player favorite “You Got Mossed” segment.

More on Moss, Hasselbeck, Bruschi and Ponder’s New Agreements

With their new agreements, Ponder and Bruschi will extend their time with ESPN that began in 2011 and 2009, respectively, and, for Moss and Hasselbeck, since 2016. Hasselbeck and Bruschi will continue to appear on additional ESPN studio programming at select times throughout the season. Ponder adds more tent pole events, including the NFL Draft, where she was part of ABC’s coverage this past April. Moss will now be primarily focused on Sunday NFL Countdown.

Moss joined the network following his playing career as one of the most transcendent wide receivers in NFL history. He played 14 NFL seasons, redefining the wide receiver position throughout his brilliant career. In total, he amassed 15,292 career yards and 982 receptions, including 156 for touchdowns. He was a first-ballot Hall of Famer inducted in 2018.

Hasselbeck signed with ESPN on the same day he announced his retirement from pro football after 18 NFL seasons, which included starting Super Bowl XL for the Seattle Seahawks. A three-time Pro Bowler, Hasselbeck played for the Green Bay Packers (1998-2000), Seahawks (2001-10), Tennessee Titans (2011-12) and Indianapolis Colts (2013-15). He threw for 36,638 yards, with 212 touchdowns. In 2021, the Seahawks inducted him into their Ring of Honor.

Three-time Super Bowl champion Tedy Bruschi joined ESPN one week after announcing his NFL retirement. A defensive team captain for seven seasons, Bruschi helped lead the Patriots to nine playoffs, eight division championships, five conference titles and three Super Bowl crowns (XXXVI, XXXVIII and XXXIX). He, along with Moss, also helped guide the 2007 Patriots to the first undefeated 16-0 regular season record in NFL history.

When Ponder assumed the role of Sunday NFL Countdown host in 2017, the Arizona native was just the third person to occupy this position in the 30+ year history of ESPN’s Sunday morning NFL pregame show. In addition to hosting the show, Ponder also contributes NFL interviews and features.During her ESPN tenure, she has contributed to College Football Live and the Sports Emmy Award-winning College GameDay Built by The Home Depot (2012-16). Ponder also served as a reporter for the ABC Saturday Night Football telecast with Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit in 2016. The versatile commentator began her ESPN career with the Longhorn Network, working studio shows and feature stories.

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