WNBA, USA Network parent reach 11-year rights deal

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Versant — the soon-to-be independent media company spun off from Comcast that will include networks such as USA Network — have agreed an 11-year media rights deal. The agreement begins with the 2026 season and runs through 2036.

Under the new deal, USA Network will air at least 50 WNBA games each season, spanning regular-season contests and playoff games in certain years. A prominent feature will be Wednesday night doubleheaders of WNBA games, supported by dedicated pregame and postgame studio coverage. The agreement also builds on the existing national media arrangements the league has with Disney, Amazon, and ION.

Versant, as a spun-off entity from Comcast/NBCUniversal, will become a stand-alone media company housing cable networks like USA Network, Golf Channel, and several others. The deal is part of WNBA’s broader push to expand its visibility, reach more households, and strengthen its broadcasting presence in primetime windows.

Why it matters — strategic implications

1. Long-term security for the league
   An 11-year term gives the WNBA stable broadcasting support over more than a decade. That kind of duration helps with planning, marketing, sponsorship, and audience building, all of which are vital for the continued growth of the league.
2. Prime time consistency
   By anchoring WNBA coverage on Wednesday nights with doubleheaders and complementary studio shows, the deal creates a regular “appointment viewing” slot. That helps develop habitual viewership and strengthens the league’s brand identity.
3. Expanded exposure
   The commitment to broadcast playoff games (and in some cases finals) increases the league’s access during high-stakes moments. More coverage in big moments can help raise stars, deepen fan engagement, and produce compelling narratives.
4. Leveraging structural change at parent company
   Versant’s impending independence from Comcast/NBCUniversal means it needs marquee content. Securing WNBA rights and embedding them in USA Network helps the new company anchor its sports ambition and valuation.
5. Complementing existing deals
   The WNBA is not foregoing its other media relationships. This USA Network deal layers on top of earlier contracts with Disney (ABC/ESPN), Amazon Prime Video, and ION for Friday night showcases. The multiplicity of platforms ensures broader reach across audiences.
6. Signaling growth trajectory
   This deal sends a strong message: the WNBA is positioning itself not just as a niche or secondary league, but as a central player in U.S. sports broadcasting. The scale, duration, and structure reflect confidence in the league’s commercial and fan potential.

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