Scripps Sports Expands NWSL Coverage with Eight Tripleheader Saturdays on ION
Event summary
- Scripps Sports will broadcast eight tripleheader Saturdays for the 2026 NWSL season on ION, starting March 14.
- The network will feature a refreshed studio team including former players Ali Riley, Jordan Angeli, Darian Jenkins, and Chelsea Cabarcas.
- ION’s coverage includes 10 Kansas City Current games and 11 Denver Summit FC matches, the latter marking its inaugural NWSL season.
- Viewership for NWSL on ION’s FAST platforms reached 3.25 million hours in 2025, up 24% year-over-year.
The big picture
Scripps Sports is doubling down on its NWSL coverage amid record-breaking league growth, positioning ION as a key platform for women’s sports. The expanded tripleheader schedule and player-focused content reflect broader industry trends toward premium sports programming and diversified media offerings. With the NWSL’s digital engagement and attendance surging, Scripps aims to capitalize on this momentum while competing with other broadcasters vying for sports rights.
What we're watching
- Audience Engagement
- Whether Scripps can sustain the 24% year-over-year viewership growth with expanded tripleheader coverage.
- Content Strategy
- How the new studio team’s player-focused storytelling will differentiate NWSL on ION from competitors.
- League Expansion
- The pace at which Denver Summit FC and other expansion teams drive viewership and revenue growth for Scripps.