
Dallas Wings Take Center Stage as Broadcasting Landscape Shifts
As the Dallas Wings gear up for the start of their 2025 WNBA season on May 16, they are not just stepping onto the court, but stepping into a new era of sports broadcasting. Their season opener will be aired on national television—a clear indicator of how the viewing landscape has transformed for both the team and the league.
Community Connection Drives Broadcast Decisions
During the recent Global Sports Business Summit held at SMU, Wings CEO Greg Bibb, alongside representatives from WFAA/KFAA, discussed a groundbreaking deal that allows all Wings games (not exclusive to national carriers) to be aired on KFAA, Channel 29 in North Texas. This partnership is a response to dwindling cable viewership and offers a fresh approach to engaging local audiences. Carolyn Mungo, WFAA and KFAA's President and GM, emphasized the role of sports in strengthening community ties, stating, "Informing and connecting communities is at the heart of what we do." Their collaboration aims to empower women and girls in the Dallas Fort Worth area, highlighting a vision that goes beyond sports entertainment.
A New Model for Sports Broadcasting
The transition from traditional regional sports networks (RSNs) to this new broadcasting model not only caters to local audiences but is financially beneficial. This shift is essential, especially for women's sports teams which historically struggled to secure broadcasting deals. Bibb noted, "Securing broadcasting deals that included a rights fee has often been a challenge for women's sports teams.” However, the recent resurgence in local sports viewership provides a promising opportunity to grow advertising revenue, thus aiding in the financial stability of teams like the Wings.
Future Prospects for Local Sports
Looking ahead, the partnership with TEGNA, which has successfully acquired multiple sports rights deals across various leagues, offers a roadmap for similar collaborations throughout the region. As Bibb pointed out, this deal is about more than just broadcasting; it builds community, helps promote local talent, and fosters a connection within the larger Texas sports community. The Wings, now reaching over 6.3 million households, represent a beacon of hope and opportunity in the evolving world of local sports.
For homeowners and sports enthusiasts in the Dallas Fort Worth area, this partnership signals not just an exciting season for the Wings, but also a broader commitment to community engagement through local sports. Tune in as the Wings unveil their talents this season, and consider how these changes can create a more connected and vibrant community.
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