NWSL nearly doubles ESPN exposure, adds Victory+ streaming deal

Michael Malone is set to join ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown’ full time, marking an exciting new chapter in his career. This move not only highlights Malone's expertise and popularity in the basketball community but also enhances ESPN's coverage of the NBA, bringing fans closer to the action and insights from a seasoned coach. His presence is expected to elevate discussions around key players and games, making it a significant development for basketball enthusiasts.

Stephen A. Smith has secured a lucrative deal with SiriusXM reportedly worth $12 million per year, adding to his already impressive $105 million contract with ESPN. This significant financial success highlights Smith's influence in sports media and his ability to command top dollar for his insights and commentary. It also underscores the growing value of sports talk radio and the demand for engaging personalities in the industry.

In an impressive start, ESPN and Fox One have reportedly gained 1 million subscribers within just the first ten days of their new streaming service collaboration. This rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for bundled sports streaming options, making it a significant development in the media landscape. As more viewers turn to online platforms for their sports content, this partnership could reshape how fans access their favorite games and events.

Stephen A. Smith, the well-known ESPN personality, is making waves by launching a new political show called Straight Shooter with Stephen A. on SiriusXM's POTUS channel. This move comes amid swirling rumors about his potential presidential run, which adds an intriguing layer to his already impressive career, where he's nearing $40 million in annual earnings. This show could provide a fresh perspective on political discourse, especially from someone with Smith's influence and reach.

Molly Qerim's sudden resignation from ESPN's 'First Take' has left fans and colleagues surprised. Reports indicate that her departure is set for the end of the year, raising questions about the future of the show and its dynamic. This news matters because Qerim has been a prominent figure in sports media, and her exit could significantly impact the program's viewership and direction.

In the latest roundup of sports and pop culture news for Wednesday, September 17, we highlight Cal Raleigh's historic season, marking a significant achievement in his career. Additionally, there are major developments with ESPN, as the network experiences a massive exit that could impact its future programming. These stories matter as they reflect the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment, showcasing both individual accomplishments and industry shifts.

Tottenham Hotspur kicked off their Champions League campaign with a thrilling win against Villarreal, thanks in part to a crucial error from the Villarreal goalkeeper. This victory not only boosts Spurs' confidence but also marks a significant return to European competition, highlighting their ambition to make a deep run in the tournament. Fans are excited as the team showcases their potential on such a prestigious stage.

In an impressive display of skill, Long Reach quarterback Reece Thimote led his team to a 37-14 victory over Kenwood, scoring four touchdowns in the process. This win not only highlights Thimote's talent but also boosts the team's morale as they continue their season. Fans are excited to see how this performance will influence their upcoming games.

The recent college football game between Georgia and Tennessee drew an impressive average of 12.4 million viewers, marking a significant milestone for ABC as its largest audience of the season. This thrilling overtime match not only showcased the excitement of SEC football but also highlighted the growing popularity of college sports on television. Such high ratings are crucial as they reflect the increasing engagement of fans and the potential for future broadcasting opportunities.

Don La Greca from ESPN NY has stirred controversy by suggesting that the NFL might manipulate outcomes to ensure the Kansas City Chiefs defeat the New York Giants, preventing the Chiefs from starting the season 0-3. This statement raises questions about the integrity of the league and the fairness of the games, as fans and analysts alike ponder the implications of such claims. La Greca's comments reflect a growing concern among fans about the potential for bias in professional sports, making this a significant topic of discussion in the sports community.

Rob Manfred, the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, has announced that the league has reached agreements in principle with major broadcasters NBC, ESPN, and Netflix. This is significant as it opens up new avenues for MLB to reach a wider audience and enhance its broadcasting strategy, potentially leading to increased viewership and revenue. The partnerships with these prominent networks could also bring innovative content and coverage to fans, making baseball more accessible and engaging.

The UFC Contender Series is back for its ninth season, bringing 10 weeks of thrilling mixed martial arts action starting tonight at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN+. Last week, five fighters secured UFC contracts, showcasing the high stakes and talent on display. Tonight's main event features a bantamweight clash with Spain's Hecher Sosa, promising an exciting matchup that fans won't want to miss. This series is crucial for aspiring fighters looking to make their mark in the UFC, making it a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.

Michael Malone is set to join ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown’ full time, marking an exciting new chapter in his career. This move not only highlights Malone's expertise and popularity in the basketball community but also enhances ESPN's coverage of the NBA, bringing fans closer to the action and insights from a seasoned coach. His presence is expected to elevate discussions around key players and games, making it a significant development for basketball enthusiasts.

Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners made headlines by tying Ken Griffey Jr.'s home run record during a thrilling 12-5 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Hitting his 55th and 56th home runs of the season, Raleigh not only celebrated a personal achievement but also broke Mickey Mantle's record for the most home runs in a season by a switch-hitter. This milestone is significant as it highlights Raleigh's emerging talent and the Mariners' competitive spirit in the league.

Fantasy basketball analyst Joel Bartilotta has provided an insightful breakdown of the NBA schedule for the 2025-26 season. This analysis is crucial for fans and players alike as it helps them strategize their fantasy teams effectively, ensuring they make informed decisions throughout the season.

As the NBA season approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers face a crucial decision regarding Austin Reaves' future with the team. With Reaves likely to decline his player option, he could be in line for a lucrative contract worth between $30 to $35 million annually. This situation is significant not only for Reaves but also for the Lakers' overall strategy, especially in relation to their star player Luka Doncic. How the team navigates this will impact their performance and roster dynamics moving forward.

As we head into Week 3 of the fantasy football season, analyst Ray Garvin highlights some concerning trends for rookies Omarion Hampton and Travis Hunter. Both players are not meeting expectations, which could impact fantasy teams relying on their performance. Understanding these shifts is crucial for fantasy managers looking to make informed decisions about their lineups.

J.J. McCarthy's potential return from injury may be influenced by the upcoming schedule of the Minnesota Vikings. As the team prepares for their next games, fans and analysts are keeping a close eye on how this could impact McCarthy's recovery timeline. Understanding the schedule's implications is crucial for both the player and the team's strategy moving forward.