Full Breakdown
ESPN Arkansas Expands Reach with Acquisition of KISR-FM 93.7
4/11/2026, 1:03:58 PM
Acquisition Details and Transition
KISR-FM 93.7, a Class C1 FM station located between Fort Smith and Fayetteville, Arkansas, is set to change ownership from Stereo 93 Inc., led by Fred Baker Jr., to Pearson Broadcasting of Northwest Arkansas Inc. The acquisition agreement, signed by Pearson Broadcasting's VP Bruce Hale, stipulates a sale price of $1.235 million, with a $65,000 deposit currently held in escrow. The remaining $1.17 million will be paid in cash at closing. The transaction is pending regulatory approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
As part of the agreement, KISR will transition from its current Top 40 format to become ESPN Arkansas 93.7, enhancing the network's presence in Northwest Arkansas and the greater River Valley. This change will allow Pearson Broadcasting to leverage the station's 100,000-watt signal to reach a broader audience, including areas such as Fort Smith, Hot Springs, Harrison, and parts of Eastern Oklahoma.
Implications for Local Broadcasting
Fred Baker, who founded KISR over 55 years ago, emphasized that the acquisition aligns with the station's original mission of maintaining a local focus. He noted that while the expanded signal improves coverage, it complicates the ability to provide strictly local programming. Baker expressed confidence in Pearson Broadcasting's commitment to local radio, making them a suitable partner for the transition.
Tommy Craft, General Manager of ESPN Arkansas, described the acquisition as a "game changer," highlighting the potential to enhance live and local sports talk programming, particularly in relation to University of Arkansas athletics. The deal is expected to close in early summer 2026, contingent upon FCC approval.
Criticism & Opposition
While the acquisition is largely viewed positively, some local listeners may be concerned about the shift from KISR's established music format to a sports talk format. The transition raises questions about the future of local music programming in the region and whether the new format will adequately serve the diverse interests of the community.
Official Statements & Responses
Fred Baker stated, "This move aligns with our mission to remain focused on local service," indicating a commitment to community engagement despite the format change. Tommy Craft added that the acquisition would allow ESPN Arkansas to bring more listeners into its programming, enhancing coverage of local sports.
What's Next
The acquisition is currently awaiting FCC approval, with expectations for the transaction to finalize by early summer 2026. Following the completion, KISR will officially rebrand as ESPN Arkansas 93.7, marking a significant shift in the local broadcasting landscape.
