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PWHL Secures National TV Deal with Scripps Sports

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, March 26th 2026 at 11:44 GMT by Boston.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

New York, NY - March 26th, 2026 - The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) today announced a groundbreaking television deal with Scripps Sports, promising to bring the excitement of the Walter Cup Finals to a national audience across the United States this May. The agreement, revealed on Tuesday, marks a pivotal moment for the nascent league and represents a significant leap forward in the visibility and mainstream acceptance of women's hockey in North America.

The deal will see the Walter Cup Finals aired across Scripps Sports' diverse network portfolio, including Ion, Newsy, Pluto TV, and The CW. This broad distribution strategy is designed to maximize reach, exposing the PWHL to a vastly larger audience than previously achieved through its primarily online streaming model. While the league has cultivated a dedicated and passionate fan base through digital platforms, the transition to traditional television is expected to unlock a new level of growth and recognition.

"This is a huge moment for the PWHL and for women's hockey in North America," stated PWHL Commissioner Jayna Hefford in an official release. "We're incredibly excited to partner with Scripps Sports to bring our Walter Cup Finals to a national audience. This deal is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players, staff, and fans."

For years, advocates for women's hockey have pointed to a lack of media exposure as a primary impediment to the sport's growth. The PWHL's launch, backed by a unique ownership structure and a commitment to player support, was seen as a promising step. However, accessibility was always key. While streaming provided a starting point, reaching a national television audience is widely regarded as a game-changer, akin to the impact TV deals had on the growth of men's professional sports.

Travis DeSario, Scripps Sports Senior Vice President, echoed Hefford's enthusiasm. "We're thrilled to partner with the PWHL to bring the Walter Cup Finals to our viewers," DeSario said. "The league has a bright future, and we're excited to be a part of its growth." Scripps Sports, known for its commitment to sports programming, sees the PWHL as a valuable addition to its lineup and a promising investment in a rapidly growing market.

Beyond the Broadcast: What This Deal Means for the PWHL's Future

This television deal is far more than just a broadcast agreement; it's a validation of the PWHL's potential and a catalyst for long-term sustainability. Increased visibility will likely translate to higher ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and sponsorship opportunities. Crucially, it provides the league with a platform to showcase its talented players and compelling on-ice product to a wider audience, attracting new fans and fostering a deeper connection with the sport.

The PWHL has distinguished itself from previous attempts to establish a professional women's hockey league through its focus on financial stability, competitive balance, and player welfare. The league's unique ownership model, featuring investors like Billie Jean King Enterprises and Mark Walter, has provided a solid financial foundation. The emphasis on creating a sustainable business model has positioned the PWHL for success, and the Scripps deal further solidifies that position.

The timing of the deal is also significant. Women's sports are experiencing a surge in popularity, with record attendance and viewership numbers across various disciplines. The success of leagues like the WNBA and the recent growth in women's college basketball demonstrate a clear appetite for high-quality women's sports programming. The PWHL is poised to capitalize on this momentum.

While specific broadcast schedules and network assignments remain to be announced, anticipation is already building among fans and analysts. The Walter Cup Finals promise to be a thrilling showcase of skill, athleticism, and determination. The league is currently in its second season, and the competition has been fierce, with several teams emerging as legitimate contenders for the championship. The Scripps deal ensures that the culmination of this season will be accessible to a national audience, providing a platform for the PWHL to truly establish itself as a premier professional sports league.

The deal also opens up exciting possibilities for future collaborations between the PWHL and Scripps Sports, including potential for regular season game broadcasts and expanded coverage of league events. This partnership could pave the way for further investment in women's hockey and the development of future generations of players.