| It was a Masterful weekend for golf. Sunday’s final-round coverage of the Masters on CBS was the most-watched golf telecast on any network since the final Masters round in 2019, when Tiger Woods captured his fifth green jacket. The coverage averaged 10.173 million viewers, up +7% versus last year, with12.443 million viewers for the final hour (6:00-7:00 PM, ET) as Scottie Scheffler wrapped up his first major victory. Viewership peaked with 13.160 million viewers for the conclusion of Scheffler’s round (6:45-7:00 PM, ET). Paramount+ and CBS Sports’ digital properties registered record-setting streaming for golf – overall, the event was Paramount+ and CBS Sports’ most-streamed golf tournament ever in average minute audience and streaming minutes, producing double-digit year-over-year growth.
Additionally, GOLF Central Live From The Masters delivered viewership records and milestones last week on GOLF Channel, averaging 419,000 viewers across more than 50 live hours of studio coverage. Last week’s viewership – which was up 25% vs. 2021 – was punctuated by Saturday’s six-hour daytime window, which averaged more than 1 million viewers (1.012 million; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET) during the six-hour span to rank as the third most-watched Live From The Masters on record. Saturday’s viewership peaked with nearly 1.5 million viewers during the 1 p.m. ET hour, while Sunday’s viewership peaked at more than 1 million viewers during the 1 p.m. ET hour. Primetime coverage (15 hours) averaged 252,000 viewers from Monday-Sunday, up 36% vs. last year; included the most-watched Monday (215,000 viewers) and Wednesday (299,000 viewers) primetime windows on record; and the most-watched Tuesday (246,000 viewers) and Sunday (310,000 viewers) primetime windows since 2018.
PROGRAMMING
NBC Sports announced its commentators for the inaugural USFL season, which kicks off this Saturday, April 16 at 7:30 p.m. ET between the New Jersey Generals and Birmingham Stallions on NBC, Peacock and FOX from Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. NBC Sports’ Jac Collinsworth and Paul Burmeister will handle play-by-play duties. Analysts include Jason Garrett, Michael Robinson and Cameron Jordan.
FOX Sportsannounced their 2022 USFL broadcast team as well, led by Curt Menefee and Joel Klatt. Kevin Kugler and analyst Mark Sanchez will also contribute to FOX Sports’ USFL coverage, along with analyst Brock Huard
The YES Network’s wall-to-wall live coverage of the New York Yankees and Brooklyn Nets last Friday resulted in the network’s being the #1 television network, broadcast or cable, in the New York DMA from 9 am to 11 pm that day. YES’ live coverage Friday started with four hours of Red Sox-Yankees pre-game coverage (9 am – 1 pm), the biggest pre-game show ever for a regional sports network. YES’ linear coverage of the Yankees’ Opening Day extra innings win over the Red Sox generated 401,000 Total Viewers, peaking at 551,000 Total Viewers from 4:45 to 5:00 pm. Friday’s telecast was YES’ second-most-viewed weekday afternoon Yankees season opener (traditional 1 pm start) in more than a decade. On the YES App, the Red Sox-Yankees game received 103,231 Unique Viewers, eclipsing the previous YES App record of 85,461 from October 3, 2021 (Rays-Yankees). Friday evening, the Cavs-Nets game on YES generated 136,000 average Total Viewers, YES’ third-most-viewed Nets game of the season.
Chris Canty and Chris Carlin will debut a new, national show, Canty & Carlin, from 3-7 p.m. ET as part of ESPN Radio’s weekday afternoon lineup, beginning Monday, April 25. The duo will offer insights on the day’s events and breaking news, as well as get fans ready for the night’s action with updates, analysis and more. The show will also regularly welcome a full lineup of special guests across sports and entertainment.
FOX Sports unveiled its comprehensive broadcast schedule for the FIFA World Cup. From Monday, Nov. 21 through Sunday, Dec. 18, FOX Sports will present all 64 matches live across FOX (35) and FS1 (29) with every match live streaming on the FOX Sports App. The 35-match presentation on FOX broadcast television is headlined by 21 group stage matches, six round of 16 matches, four quarterfinal matches, two semifinal matches, the third-place match and the FIFA World Cup™ Final. Thirty four of the 35 matches scheduled to air on FOX will be televised in the 10:00 AM ET, 11:00 AM ET or 2:00 PM ET windows. An additional 27 group stage matches and two round of 16 matches will air on FS1. Accompanying FOX Sports’ multiplatform coverage, all 64 FIFA World Cup™ matches will stream live on the FOX Sports App.
FIFA also announced the launch of FIFA+, a digital platform created to connect football fans across the globe, for free. FIFA+ will provide access to live football matches, interactive games, news, tournament information, and video content delivering global storytelling around the men’s and women’s games.
Last Thursday’s non-exclusive Opening Day matchup featuring the Milwaukee Brewers at Chicago Cubs averaged 326K viewers on MLB Network, the most-watched weekday regular season afternoon game on the network in more than three years.
|
 |
| THE 2022 TOP WOMEN IN MEDIA AWARDS ARE OPEN FOR ENTRY
This year’s Top Women in Media Awards celebrate creativity and collaboration. Honorees are innovators and risk-takers who help design and execute strategy in categories that span entertainment, tech, and sports media.
Nominate yourself and/or a colleague for this industry distinction. It’s your turn to be in the spotlight!
Enter Now! |
|
| SPONSORSHIP & PROMOTION
FIBA, the International Basketball Federation, has appointed IMG as global master licensee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, taking place 25 August – 10 September 2023 in Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines. This is the first time in the history of the competition that multiple countries will host the global tournament, which will feature 32 national teams.
PointsBet Canada and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) have agreed to a new multi-year agreement that would see PointsBet become an Official Sports Betting Partner of MLSE’s professional teams: Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Marlies (AHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto Argonauts (CFL), and Toronto FC (MLS).
The Colorado Rockiesannounced a multiyear sponsorship agreement with PNC Bank through which the premium seating area adjacent to the press box at Coors Field will become the PNC Press Club.
FILA launched “Spirit of Tennis Scholarships” in support of the USTA Foundation, a pair of scholarship opportunities available to qualified students participating in the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) Network of more than 300 youth development nonprofits.
Nuveen reached a five-year extension of its deal to sponsor the San Francisco Giants.
DIGITAL, DATA & TECH
Roger Penske has struck a deal with Autograph that involves making digital collectibles around IndyCar, the Indianapolis 500 and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, plus Team Penske. The deal starts next month with the Indy 500, and the collectibles will be made around past and present races, drivers, tickets and archives from the property, venue and team.
WrestleMania 38 has proven to be a success for WWE, with new data indicating the annual event beat out Super Bowl LVI in terms of social media metrics. Per the analytics firm Conviva, the two-night WrestleMania weekend drew a combined 2.2 billion impressions across all social platforms, compared to 1.8 billion for the most recent Super Bowl. Likewise, WWE amassed 1.1 billion video views, 13.1 million hours of video watch time, and 87 million engagements over the weekend, compared to 618 million video views, 3.56 million hours of video watch time, and 78 million engagements for the NFL championship game. In fairness, the Super Bowl is a one-night event compared to the two nights of WrestleMania matches.
Top Rank and Autograph, announced an exclusive, multi-year deal to create a one-of-a-kind line of NFTs. Under the agreement, Autograph will utilize Top Rank’s library of fights to offer fans and collectors the ability to purchase premium digital collectibles tied to their favorite fighters, historic matchups and events in boxing history. The first products of the collaboration will be released to the public today, April 13 via fiat auction on the DraftKings Marketplace. Additional drops will be announced over the coming months.
ESPORTS
BLAST Premier has announced a season-long partnership with global logistics company A.P. Moller – Maersk. BLAST Premier and A.P. Moller – Maersk will look to use the partnership to bring fans closer to esports through integrated digital campaigns and an MVP activation and broadcast segment.
Infinite Realty, Inc. announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement to acquire esports and entertainment conglomerate ReKTGlobal, Inc. in a $470 million all-stock deal, based on an equity valuation for iR of $2 billion, for a combined post-close valuation of $2.47 billion. ReKTGlobal has focused on helping endemic and non-endemic brands activate within the gaming and esports industries. As part of the deal, Infinite Reality will integrate ReKT’s four key business divisions, which include esports franchises, marketing and partnership services, talent management, and technology products.
Epic Games announced a $2bn (~£1.5bn) round of financing involving Sony Group Corporation and KIRKBI. The financial injection will be used to support the company’s growth, and help advance its vision to build the metaverse. The investment round included funding from technology conglomorate and previous Epic Games investor Sony Group Corporation, and KIRKBI, the investment company behind the LEGO Group. Sony and KIRKBNI both invested $1bn (~£0.75bn) each.
ROSTER MOVES
Global sports marketing agency SPORTFIVE announced today that it has acquired Wolfe Solutions, a brand-centric, sports and entertainment marketing agency. As part of the acquisition, Wolfe Solutions will bolster SPORTFIVE’s consulting division by expanding its existing business and capabilities. The acquisition is part of SPORTFIVE’s new strategy following the announcement of its new consulting leadership team of Brendan Moynihan, Josh Wollock, and Lindsay Brinkmann. Wolfe Solutions founder Jason Wolfe will join the leadership team and assume the title of Executive Vice President, Consulting.
The XFL announced it has entered an exclusive partnership with the NFL Alumni Academy, an in-season training program for “NFL Ready” players led by former NFL coaches and players. Together, the XFL and the NFL Alumni Academy will enhance the football ecosystem by combining their scouting and training expertise to develop the next best players in the game and offer more opportunities to play professional football.
|
|
| MEASUREMENT & DATA CONFERENCE
June 7th at Edison Ballroom, NYC
Publicis Media, Walt Disney Company, Discovery and more confirmed for key panels.
The Best Alternative Currencies Panel: FULL!
FIND OUT MORE
|
ON THIS DAY in
1940 the New York Rangers beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 3-2 for a 4-2 series victory in the Stanley Cup Finals; it was the Rangers’ last Cup win for 54 years, until 1994.
IN THE KNOW
The WNBA Draft was Tuesday. Who was the WNBA’s first ever college draft pick, in 1997 by the Houston Comets? (Email [email protected] with your answer and be sure to include your name, company and city).
Answer to Our Last Sports Trivia Question
How many stages are there now in the Tour de France? Answer: 21. Kudos: John Ward VideoAmp/Chicago, Louis Lewow FITE/Atlanta, Joe Lyons ESPN/Dallas, Andy Pittman TAMU/ College Station, TX; David Westberg-SAG AFTRA Credit Union/CA: Tom Moore-Kalt Productions/CA; Denis Barry CBS Sales/NY, and Andy Gould Bike NYC/New York.
|
|
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE >>
CHICKEN SOUP for the SOUL/NYC: Generating new business and hitting sales goals while developing client and agency relationships. Success in the emerging OTT / Advanced TV video streaming space, requires a nimble, consultative seller, with access to key client and agency media decision-makers, and a clear understanding of pipeline management and prospect list development. Full info HERE (4/26)
LOCAL SALES MANAGER >>
NEXSTAR MEDIA GROUP/ INDIANAPOLIS: Provides leadership for the broadcast/digital sales teams. Makes decisions regarding hiring, evaluation, promotion, and termination of account executives and sales assistants. Develops and executes sales strategies which result in exceeding revenue targets in local, new business and digital revenue. Minimum five years of media sales experience. Full info HERE (4/26)
THE DIRECTOR OF SALES
CIRCLE MEDIA
REMOTE (PREFER NYC, CHICAGO, NASHVILLE)
Responsible for selling general advertising of our Linear network for year over year growth of our advertising sales projections. Source, create, and maintain relationships, as well as execute contracts for our Linear/Cable/VOD networks. Use of qualitative sales packaging and the drive to meet/exceed sales goals is a top priority. Full info HERE (4/25)
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING
CIRCLE MEDIA
NASHVILLE
Proven track record of success with strategic programming initiatives, preferably experience launching a new linear/VOD network. Lead the programming and scheduling of our network including live events. Create quarterly grids, promo plans, develop stunts, graphic and secondary event requests and review all on air plans for the network. Full info HERE (4/25)
TRAFFIC BILLING COORDINATOR
CIRCLE MEDIA
NASHVILLE
This position will serve as a conduit between Linear Sales, Traffic and the Accounting Department. Previous invoicing experience is a must, and the ability to work in a fast pace environment. Strong communication skills via phone and email are both required. Full info HERE (4/25)
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER, ON-AIR PROMOTIONS
YES NETWORK
STAMFORD, CT
Ideation for scripts, pitches, brainstorming sessions, and 360-degree marketing campaigns. Overseeing all aspects of assigned projects including screening footage, acquiring media assets, writing scripts, VO sessions, and edit sessions. Minimum 2-3 years of experience in assisting/writing/producing for sports television networks or media companies. Full info HERE (4/25)
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING MANAGER, COMMERCE
A+E NETWORKS
NYC or REMOTE
Engineering team manager to develop and launch high quality services in support of web, mobile, and television products. 5+ years of technology experience developing and maintaining APIs and backend services with min 1 year of leadership. Strong knowledge of JavaScript, React and Node. JS. Full info HERE (4/25)
DAILY ENTERTAINMENT VIDEO PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
theGrio
LOS ANGELES
Experienced in research, pitching ideas, reporting, and coordinating logistics for field production are major responsibilities. Pull video assets including SOTs and Vos, clear footage and provide breaking news support. Manage archives, have a firm understanding of rights and clearances, and thoroughly track sources of material for licensing. Full info HERE (4/22)
COPY EDITOR
theGrio
ATLANTA, LA, NYC, WASHINGTON DC
Read text for grammatical, typographical and factual errors, upholding the highest level of grammar, usage and accuracy. Confirm final drafts are free of errors. Ensure the writing is easy to read and fits the editorial style of the platform. Confirm theGrio’s original news stories and aggregated stories are accurate and meet journalism standards. Full info HERE (4/22)
ASSIGNMENT EDITOR
theGrio
ATLANTA, WASHINGTON DC, LA, NYC
Manage the assignment and publishing of stories about Black people across America. We are seeking a reliable self-starter to work alongside a shift-based team to manage stories that are accurate, authoritative, and indispensable. Experience in journalism and an ability to work in a breaking news environment is required. Full info HERE (4/22)
DAILY AGGREGATION WRITER
theGrio
ATLANTA
Write accurate aggregations of about six to eight 400-600 word stories daily significant news stories. Craft original, engaging headlines, and ledes that arrest and audience. Source appropriately licensed photos to accompany stories, government agencies, Associated Press, Getty, Adobe Stock, public domain repositories, and other institutions. Full info HERE (4/22)
DAILY NEWS WRITER
theGrio
ATLANTA
Write a daily story with original reporting each day covering the Black experience domestically. Stay up to date on relevant trends, stories and experiences that impact Black Americans. Coordinate story parameters with Managing Editor. Strong knowledge of current events. Research and craft stories in a way that resonates with our audiences. Full info HERE (4/22)
LINE EDITOR
theGrio
ATLANTA, WASHINGTON DC, LOS ANGELES, OR NEW YORK
Veteran journalist who has leveraged skills acquired as a print or digital beat or enterprise reporter to transform into a seasoned news editor. Support the well-being, rights, livelihood, protection, joy, financial security, and success of Black people. Coach writers, edit aggregated and original copy, and provide options for sourcing images. Full info HERE (4/22)
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER
theGrio
ATLANTA, WASHINGTON DC, LOS ANGELES OR NEW YORK
Cover stories about Black people across America. Develop and research investigative stories, with a particular emphasis on data reporting. Creative self-starter to break journalism stories that are accurate, authoritative, and indispensable. Experience in investigative reporting and an ability to work in a breaking news environment is required. Full info HERE (4/22)
AD OPERATIONS MANAGER >>
FUSE MEDIA INC/GLENDALE, CA: Work with a cross functional team spanning sales, business intelligence, and digital operations to traffic direct sales and programmatic digital advertising campaigns in a timely manner to ensure client expectations are exceeded. 3+ years’ experience in Data Analysis/Ad Operations/Media Buying in the digital advertising industry. Full info HERE (4/21)
VP, BRAND MARKETING
CROWN MEDIA FAMILY NETWORKS
LA, CA
Manage strategy and execution of 360º consumer marketing campaigns for Crown Media’s linear and SVOD initiatives. Will collaborate cross functionally and manage external media, creative & promotional agencies while leading internal team. Bachelor’s Degree in related field, 12+ yrs marketing experience within entertainment required. Full info HERE (4/21)
VP, LEARNING& DEVELOPMENT, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
CROWN MEDIA FAMILY NETWORKS
LA, CA
Accountable for oversight, development and execution of highly impactful D&I strategic initiatives, as well as identifying individual, group and organizational development needs; the VP is instrumental in aligning enterprise training and D&I partnership opportunities with business strategies and cultural initiatives. Full info HERE (4/21)
SALES DEVELOPMENT REPRESENTATIVE >>
MEDIAOCEAN/NYC, CHICAGO: Find and screen potential customers and have a strong understanding of the sales process, excelling at researching leads, starting new relationships, and setting our sales team up for success. Have the ability to showcase our offerings in a compelling way. 1-3 years of professional work experience preferred. Full info HERE (4/20)
ACCOUNT MANAGER FOR CLIENT SERVICES – DEAL MAKER >>
MEDIAOCEAN/NYC/EAST COAST: Execute a coordinated account plan for driving growth and adoption of Mediaocean solutions. Maintain a regular cadence of on-site visits to consult end users, identify and address business needs and challenges. Act as a trusted advisor and partner with customer contacts. 3+ years of experience in client services or consulting. Full info HERE (4/20)
|
|
|
