In an unprecedented move to solidify its position as the leading audio network in the U.S, Cumulus Media’s Westwood One (NASDAQ: CMLS), has managed to land exclusive rights to air 2024’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight. Serving as the official network audio broadcast partner of the NCAA, this strategic move is expected to add a potent charm to the network’s all-encompassing live coverage services.
Scheduled for March 28th and 29th, fans across the U.S will have the opportunity to absorb every electrifying moment of the Sweet Sixteen from 6 p.m. ET, as Westwood One kickstarts its live coverage with The Tournament Tonight pregame show. The anticipation remains palpable as Westwood One extends their coverage to capture the decisive moments of the Men’s Elite Eight slated for March 30th, starting from 5 p.m. The flavor of this extensive broadcast package is effectively carried forward to the following day, Sunday, March 31, featuring a pregame show at 1 p.m.
The crescendo of Westwood One’s coverage stretches into the critical NCAA Men’s Final Four beginning on Saturday, April 6a day that will see the audio network roll out its anticipated The Final Four Show at 3 p.m, followed by the Championship Monday show at 6:30 p.m to trailblaze the National Championship Game taking place on Monday, April 8.
This unique broadcasting terrain is uncharted waters for Cumulus Media’s Westwood One. However, given their standing as the largest audio network in the U.S, the venture will provide the platform an unparalleled opportunity to further diversify its content stream, tapping into the sports-enthusiast demographic while consolidating its consumer base further.
The impact of this strategic move may reflect in the company’s stocks, given the mass appeal that NCAA commands. Partnering with NCAA and broadcasting these games can bolster Westwood One’s reputation, offering significant value to advertisers and listeners alike. This strategic push towards exclusive content indicates Cumulus Media’s fervor to not only stay competitive but to redefine the landscape of audio network broadcasting in the US.
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