In a landmark move reshaping college sports broadcasting, the Big Ten Conference has announced a record-breaking $2.2 billion media rights deal with ESPN, Amazon, and NBC.
This unprecedented agreement, which spans seven years, marks one of the most lucrative media rights packages in the history of collegiate athletics.
The deal will see a dramatic increase in the conference’s national exposure, with ESPN securing exclusive rights to broadcast marquee football and basketball games. Amazon will bring Big Ten content to its streaming platform, expanding the conference’s reach to a global audience.
NBC, which has been a long-time partner, will continue its coverage, adding even more high-profile matchups and exclusive programming.
“This agreement is a game-changer for the Big Ten Conference,” said Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti. “It reflects the strength and value of our brand and ensures that our fans will have unparalleled access to our sports across multiple platforms.”
The deal includes a combination of traditional television broadcasts and digital streaming, catering to the evolving viewing habits of sports fans. ESPN will air key games on its main network, while also leveraging its ESPN+ platform for additional coverage.
Amazon’s inclusion underscores the growing influence of digital media, with Big Ten games now available on Prime Video, allowing fans to stream live events and highlights.
NBC’s commitment to the Big Ten will feature extensive coverage of both football and basketball, maintaining its role as a key broadcaster of the conference’s events.
The agreement is expected to significantly boost the Big Ten’s revenue, benefiting member schools through increased exposure and financial support. The deal also highlights the escalating competition among media companies to secure exclusive sports content as they vie for viewers in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.
With this new deal, the Big Ten Conference positions itself at the forefront of collegiate sports media, promising an enhanced viewing experience for fans and a substantial financial boon for its member institutions.
For further details on the agreement and its implications, stay tuned to our ongoing coverage.
