ESPN has reached a new multiyear deal with the West Coast Conference (WCC) through 2026-27, beginning with the upcoming college basketball season.
- The new agreement is part of a long-standing relationship with the WCC, which began in 2006.
- As the primary national rightsholder, ESPN will televise 17 regular season men’s b asketball games across its networks, including a number of games during conference play.
- Selections will be made prior to any other WCC media partner.
- In addition to regular season coverage, ESPN will also air the quarterfinals, semifinals and championship game of the men’s basketball tournament, as well as the women’s championship title game.
- Those games will be a part of ESPN’s industry-leading conference championships slate during Champ Week.
- ESPN will also televise four additional women’s basketball games or other conference-sponsored sports per year.
- All games aired on an ESPN network will also be available through the ESPN App, computers, smartphones, tablets and streaming devices to fans who receive their high-speed Internet connection or video subscription from an affiliated service provider.
What they’re saying:
- Nick Dawson, ESPN vice president of programming and acquisitions: “The West Coast Conference is a valued long-time partner and a premier basketball conference. We look forward to continue showcasing the conference’s best matchups and teams throughout the season, and for years to come.”
- Gloria Nevarez, WCC Commissioner: “We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with ESPN. We are grateful for the outstanding support from our national television partners and are very excited to showcase the WCC as a premier men’s basketball conference on a national platform.”