Scripps Sports is on an acquisition spree, capitalizing on the off-season lull in the NHL and NBA. With local rights to five hockey teams and one basketball team, Scripps is in a prime position to expand its portfolio. The company's strategy revolves around leveraging its existing business model in markets where it already has a strong presence, such as NBC, ABC, CBS, or Fox stations. Scripps Sports President Brian Lawlor highlights the success of this approach, citing the acquisition of Pistons local rights and the ongoing pursuit of Heat local rights.
What makes Scripps' approach particularly interesting is its willingness to explore new avenues. While they don't currently have a news brand or sales team in certain markets, Lawlor hints at a future expansion to 'Scripps Sports 2.0'. This could involve setting up a news brand and sales team, which would be crucial for amplifying and advancing their sports coverage. The company's relationships with teams like Golden Knights, Mammoth, Predators, Lightning, and Panthers have been fruitful, proving that over-the-air broadcast can extend a team's reach and open up new sponsorship opportunities.
One of the key insights here is the value of over-the-air broadcast. Lawlor emphasizes that these games are valuable and reach a wide audience, which is particularly important in the age of digital consolidation. The NBA's interest in consolidating digital rights while maintaining a presence on linear television is a trend that Scripps is well-positioned to capitalize on. The company's relationship with the NHL league office has been great, and its ability to provide a crucial function in the age of digital disruption is a testament to its adaptability and forward-thinking approach.
In my opinion, Scripps Sports' acquisition strategy is a smart move. By focusing on markets where they already have a strong presence, they can leverage their existing relationships and business model. The company's willingness to explore new avenues, such as setting up a news brand and sales team, shows a commitment to innovation and growth. The value of over-the-air broadcast in the age of digital disruption is a fascinating trend, and Scripps is well-positioned to capitalize on it. As the NBA and NHL look to develop national solutions for local broadcasts, Scripps will likely continue to play a crucial role in providing a valuable function for teams and fans alike.
