In a strategic move to enhance the visibility of collegiate hockey and increase viewer access, Gray Media (NYSE: GTN) has partnered with the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) to broadcast select college hockey games over-the-air. This initiative, announced on December 6, 2024, aims to provide free access to elite college hockey to viewers across the United States, thus expanding the reach of the sport beyond traditional pay-per-view or cable offerings.
The first game to be featured in this collaboration is set for December 13, 2024, showcasing a highly anticipated matchup between the No. 2-ranked and defending national champion Denver Pioneers and the No. 8-ranked Colorado College Tigers. This game will be broadcast to more than 20 markets served by Gray Media, including notable locations such as St. Louis, Louisiana, and South Carolina, utilizing various local sports networks operated by Gray.
This broadcast initiative comes at a time when Gray Media is experiencing significant financial growth. In the third quarter of 2024, the company reported a revenue increase of 18.31% year-on-year, exceeding the average revenue growth of its competitors, which stood at 14.49% for the same period. This growth reflects not only a successful business strategy but also highlights Gray s ability to capture market share in the competitive media landscape.
Moreover, Gray Media’s net profit amounted to $96 million in the third quarter, a substantial turnaround from a net loss of $40 million recorded in the same quarter the previous year. With a net margin of 10.11%, Gray has outperformed many of its rivals in terms of profitability, underscoring the financial viability of its expanding media operations and its latest foray into college sports broadcasting.
By partnering with the NCHC and offering free access to college hockey games, Gray Media not only enhances its portfolio but also invests in the promotion of collegiate athletics, a sector that has been seeking broader audience engagement. This move is expected to foster a new generation of hockey fans and bolster attendance at college hockey games, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders involved.
This collaboration signifies a promising trend in sports media, where accessibility and strategic partnerships may redefine viewership dynamics and enhance the popularity of collegiate sports across the nation.
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