PWHL Secures First Full-Season U.S. TV Deal with Scripps for 2026-27
Event summary
- PWHL and Scripps Sports signed a national broadcast rights agreement for the 2026-27 season, marking the league's first full-season U.S. TV package.
- Scripps' ION network will air a weekly 'Game of the Week' and two additional national games, reaching 128 million households.
- Local Scripps stations in Detroit and Las Vegas will broadcast games for the PWHL's expansion teams in those markets.
- The deal includes dedicated marketing support to promote the PWHL throughout the season.
- All games will continue to stream live on the PWHL's official YouTube channel and website.
The big picture
This deal solidifies Scripps' position as a leader in women's sports broadcasting, following its successful partnerships with the WNBA and NWSL. The PWHL's first full-season U.S. TV package represents a critical step in legitimizing women's professional hockey as a year-round sports property. The partnership also underscores the growing commercial viability of women's sports, with media rights becoming a key revenue driver.
What we're watching
- Viewership Growth
- Whether the expanded TV presence will translate into sustained viewership growth for the PWHL and other women's sports leagues on ION.
- Monetization Strategy
- How Scripps will leverage this partnership to attract advertisers and sponsors to women's sports content.
- League Expansion
- The pace at which the PWHL can maintain momentum with its expansion to 12 teams while ensuring competitive balance and fan engagement.