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ESPN Extends Deal, Brings Women's Pro Softball to ABC

10/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

ESPN and Athletes Unlimited announced a three-year rights extension.
The deal includes more than 50 Athletes Unlimited Softball League games annually, following record viewership for the Women's College World Series.
ABC will air at least one Athletes Unlimited championship game in 2026, marking the first network broadcast of women’s pro softball in the United States.
Rosalyn Durant of ESPN cited growing interest in women’s sports as a factor.

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Story summary

ESPN and Athletes Unlimited announced a three-year rights extension.
The deal includes more than 50 Athletes Unlimited Softball League games annually, following record viewership for the Women's College World Series.
ABC will air at least one Athletes Unlimited championship game in 2026, marking the first network broadcast of women’s pro softball in the United States.
Rosalyn Durant of ESPN cited growing interest in women’s sports as a factor.