ESPN and Athletes Unlimited Extend Partnership for Women's Professional Sports

ESPN and Athletes Unlimited announced a three-year partnership extension, solidifying ESPN's position as the official broadcast partner for Athletes Unlimited's softball, basketball, and volleyball leagues. This deal will bring over 50 exclusive games each year to ESPN platforms, with at least one championship series game set to air on ABC in 2026. This partnership marks a significant milestone for women's professional sports, with ESPN acknowledging the growth in interest and appeal of women's sports. The collaboration will bring more moments and athletes to fans through ESPN's networks, including ESPNU and ESPN+.

Key Takeaways:

• The three-year partnership extension makes ESPN the official broadcast partner for Athletes Unlimited's softball, basketball, and volleyball leagues.
• Over 50 exclusive games will be broadcast on ESPN platforms each year, with at least one championship series game on ABC in 2026.
• This deal marks the first time women's professional softball will be shown on network television in the United States.
• ESPN will broadcast all 24 games of the AU Pro Volleyball Championship on ESPNU and ESPN+.
• The partnership reflects the growing enthusiasm for women's professional sports, following record numbers for the college game.
• The 2023 Women's College World Series finals between Texas and Texas Tech averaged 2.2 million viewers, the most-watched finals of all time.
• The investment in pro softball follows the 2023 Women's College World Series, which averaged 1.3 million viewers across 15 games, also the most-watched.
• Cheri Kempf, chief broadcast officer for Athletes Unlimited, emphasized the strength of their properties and the growing enthusiasm for women's professional sports.
• The partnership aims to deliver exceptional experiences for fans and brands alike.

Statistics:

• The 2023 Women's College World Series finals between Texas and Texas Tech averaged 2,200,000 viewers, the most-watched finals of all time [1].
• The 2023 Women's College World Series averaged 1,300,000 viewers across 15 games, also the most-watched [1].
• The partnership extension will broadcast over 50 exclusive games each year on ESPN platforms.
• At least one championship series game will air on ABC in 2026.

Sources:

• [1] AP sports: Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.