Get ready for a game-changer in the world of women's sports! Portland is about to become a hub for female athletic excellence.
RAJ Sports, the powerhouse behind the WNBA's Fire and the NWSL's Thorns, is taking a bold step forward. They're creating a dedicated broadcast channel, Fox 12 Plus, to showcase both teams' prowess. This move is a first of its kind, turning the channel into a local sports haven for women's teams.
"It's groundbreaking!" exclaimed Lee Berke, President and CEO of LHB Sports, Entertainment & Media, Inc. "There's a national network for women's sports, but nothing like this on a local level. It's a sign that the time has truly arrived."
But here's where it gets even more exciting: the Fire is launching its own direct-to-consumer (DTC) app, in partnership with Kiswe. This app will stream Fire games not aired nationally, along with exclusive fan content and behind-the-scenes stories. It's a model similar to what NBA teams like the Trail Blazers have implemented, but with a unique twist - RAJ Sports can monetize it across two teams, maximizing their reach and engagement.
"Portland has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to women's sports," said RAJ Sports Managing Director Mike Whitehead. "Where the world is today, Portland was a decade ago. There's a real appetite for this content, and we're thrilled to be able to deliver it."
The deal with Fox 12 Plus not only brings the Fire to the channel but also selects their games for the more widely viewed Fox 12. It's a comprehensive package, ideated and executed by a dream team of executives, including Whitehead, Berke, and key leaders from both RAJ Sports and Gray Media.
"It's about meeting the audience where they are," Berke explained. "We're seeing a shift in how people consume media, and we wanted to ensure we were providing the best experience for fans. The WNBA is a crucial part of this strategy, with its young and engaged audience."
And this is the part most people miss: the Fire's DTC app could potentially stream shows centered around the Thorns, despite the NWSL's digital rights belonging elsewhere. It's a clever workaround, creating a digital community for fans of both teams.
"Fans crave more than just a game," said Kiswe CEO Glenn Booth. "They want a community, a dedicated space to connect with their team. That's what we're building."
Looking ahead, the partnership between the Fire, Thorns, and Fox 12 Plus could evolve into a full-fledged women's sports regional sports network (RSN). "It could be a 24/7 network," Whitehead teased. "Our focus is on getting it off the ground and seeing how it performs. We'll continue to evaluate and improve, and who knows where it might take us?"
So, what do you think? Is this a game-changer for women's sports broadcasting? Will it inspire other markets to follow suit? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
