ESPN MediaZone

ESPN.com, ESPN Mobile TV Introduce Two Original Digital Football Programs

Wed, 6 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN announced today the launch of two original programs for its digital media platforms, ESPN.com and ESPN Mobile TV. Countdown Daily presented by IBM and Fantasy Football Now both debut this week and are produced exclusively for fans to find online and on cell phones.

ESPN’S Sunday NFL Countdown and Monday Night Countdown Features

Wed, 6 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown Presented by IBM will preview the first weekend of the 2007 NFL season Sunday at 11 a.m. ET with Chris Berman and analysts Mike Ditka, Tom Jackson, Keyshawn Johnson and Emmitt Smith. Chris Mortensen will also provide the day’s headlines and league news, and Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young will contribute his weekly Sunday segment – “Young is Restless” – featuring his opinion on the week's hottest topics.

FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007: Four Days Away

Wed, 6 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

With the kick-off of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in China less than four days away, ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPN360.com analyst Julie Foudy, former captain of the U.S. Women’s National Team and soccer hall-of-famer, offers some insight on key storylines for the world’s most prestigious women’s team sports event.

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series Live in Prime Time at Richmond International Raceway

Wed, 6 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series race under the lights at Richmond International Raceway this weekend, when the field of 12 drivers will be set for the Chase for the NEXTEL Cup, which begins with ESPN on ABC’s presentation of the Sept. 16 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race at New Hampshire International Speedway.

2007 NFL Season on ESPN

Wed, 6 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN will offer the season’s most comprehensive NFL coverage with programming across television, radio, Internet, cell phones, broadband and magazines. Led by its dynamic presentation of Monday Night Football, sports television’s most storied series, ESPN’s season-long coverage through Super Bowl XLII in Phoenix, Ariz., will also include coverage on ESPN Deportes and ESPN International.

ABC To Have Live Coverage of Dramatic IndyCar Series Season Finale

Tue, 5 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

After a season of tense and competitive racing on oval tracks, road courses and street circuits across America, as well as an event in Japan, the IndyCar Series championship comes down to the wire this weekend with one of the tightest points battles in series history.

ESPN Analysts Rusty Wallace and Tim Brewer on Racing at Richmond International Raceway; NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Returns to ABC

Mon, 4 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Q – What does it take to run well at a track the size of Richmond? Wallace: “You have to drive it like a short track and you have to treat it like a short track. There’s going to be a lot of bumping and banging and it’s hard on brakes. Drivers that do well in Martinsville and Bristol are generally the people that run well at Richmond. It takes that same kind of aggressive driving to get around there well.”

Field Announced for O’Reilly Auto Parts Puerto Rico Tip-Off on ESPN2 and ESPNU

Mon, 4 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

CELEBRATION, Fla. – Eight conferences will be represented in one of the most diverse lineups of the college basketball season when ESPN Regional Television (ERT) and ESPNU presents the 2007 O’Reilly Auto Parts Puerto Rico Tip-Off in November. The tournament, presented in conjunction with the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, will feature 12 games at the state-of-the-art Coliseo de Puerto Rico, in the cosmopolitan Hato Rey district of San Juan.

ESPN360.com and Verizon Join Forces to Crown The King of Fandom

Mon, 4 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The search for the most passionate sports fan in the country was launched by ESPN360.com and Verizon, with the ultimate enthusiast to be crowned “King of Fandom.”

New-Look ESPN360.com Delivers Next-Generation Live Sports Broadband Network

Mon, 4 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN has unveiled the re-imagined, new-look version of ESPN360.com, the company’s signature, next-generation broadband sports network. The new look complements a new programming strategy, which transforms the growing service into a 24/7 live sports destination online, dramatically increasing its live programming – delivering more than 2,000 live sports events in the next 12 months, more than ESPN and ESPN2 combined. The dynamic new user interface delivers those events with highly improved video quality, expanded controls (including live-event pause, rewind and fast forward), and easy navigation between multiple, simultaneous live sporting events.

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Mon, 4 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

After an absence of more than seven years, NASCAR NEXTEL Cup racing will return to the ABC Television Network Saturday night with ESPN on ABC’s live, prime time telecast of the Chevy Rock and Roll 400 from Richmond International Raceway. The telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET with the pre-race NASCAR Countdown program.

As Seen and Heard on ESPN’s NASCAR Countdown from California Speedway

Sun, 2 Sept 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup drivers battled record temperatures at California Speedway on Sunday in Fontana, Calif. Brent Musburger hosted Sunday’s NASCAR Countdown on ESPN; the race telecast began at 8 p.m. ET. Some NASCAR Countdown highlights:

ESPN Names New Primetime Newsmagazine E:60

Fri, 31 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN’s new primetime newsmagazine, set to debut Tuesday, October 16, at 7 p.m. ET, will be named E:60. The name is a play on the “360” concept, reflecting the show’s philosophy to approach its storytelling from all angles – from the way it shoots interviews and reporter-producer meetings, chronicles reporters’ experiences, and tells compelling stories, to the multimedia platforms that will deliver E:60’s high-quality content. E:60 will be the television and online newsmagazine where in-depth treatment of the best stories in sports come full circle.

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series Live in Prime Time at California Speedway

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series head west to California Speedway in Fontana this weekend for night racing on the 2-mile oval.

ESPN and ESPN2 FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007 Commentators

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Former U.S. Women’s Soccer National Team captain Julie Foudy and veteran soccer play-by- play announcer JP Dellacamera will pair as the lead commentator team for ESPN and ESPN2’s live coverage of all FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007 matches in China (Sept. 10-30), it was announced today by Tim Scanlan, ESPN vice president for event production.

50 Cent, Perry Farrell’s Satellite Party and Kelly Rowland to Provide Theme Song for Saturday Night Football on ABC

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The second season of Saturday Night Football Presented by Southwest Airlines on ABC, broadcast television’s first-ever weekly college football primetime series returning September 1 after a successful inaugural season, will feature a specially recorded telecast open by critically acclaimed musical artists 50 Cent, Perry Farrell’s Satellite Party and Kelly Rowland shot on the Pontiac Garage stage in New York City’s Times Square. The season debut at 8 p.m. ET, available in high definition on ABC HD, will feature Tennessee at California in showdown between two premier programs.

ESPN’s Monday Night Football Chalk Talk Luncheon Series

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Monday Night Football is the one game that all NFL fans, players and coaches get to watch every week of the season. The storied sports television franchise – now in its 38th year – shines a national spotlight on the participating teams and local communities that host the weekly primetime showcase game. This fall ESPN, the NFL and ESPN national sponsors Dick’s Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) and Ruth’s Chris Steak House will make the event even more special with the creation of the Monday Night Football Chalk Talk Luncheon Series, a season-long program that will help build excitement for the games and recognize local fans for contributions they have made to their communities.

Is This Finally LaDainian Tomlinson’s Year? Will He Lead the Chargers to Arizona? Check Out ESPN The Magazine’s Biggest Football Preview Ever!

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Plus: Virginia Tech Marches On and a Yankees Team You Can Like

ESPN to Offer Comprehensive College Football Coverage on Mobile Platforms

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ESPN is giving college football fans more mobile content than ever this season, offering live games, highlight shows, breaking news, scores, information and more across a host of mobile properties including ESPN Mobile TV and ESPN MVP, both available exclusively from Verizon Wireless, and ESPN’s industry-leading WAP site.

College GameDay to Kick Off the Season in Blacksburg, Va. September 1; Features New Fan Interactive Elements

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The 2007 season debut of College GameDay Built by The Home Depot Saturday, Sept. 1 at 10 a.m. ET will originate from Blacksburg, Va. for the season-opening East Carolina at Virginia Tech game, televised on ESPN at noon.

College Football Season to Kick Off With 25 Games Over Labor Day Weekend on Multiple ESPN Outlets

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The 2007 college football season will kick off Thursday, Aug. 30 and feature 25 games over five days on ESPN on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN360.com, ESPN Classic, ESPN Radio and ESPN Mobile TV. From August 30 to September 3, the networks will offer coverage of 10 of the top 25 teams from the pre-season AP poll: #2 LSU, #7 Wisconsin, #9 Virginia Tech, #10 Louisville, #12 California, #13 Georgia, #15 Tennessee, #18 Auburn, #19 Florida State and #20 Nebraska.

ESPN on ABC To Cover Chase for NASCAR NEXTEL Cup

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 14:09:00 GMT

ESPN on ABC is the home for the final 11 races of the 2007 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, including the 10-race Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup. For the first time since NASCAR introduced the Chase format four years ago, all 10 Chase races will be televised by a single network.

MEAC/SWAC Challenge: Florida A&M vs. Southern Sept. 1 on ESPN Classic

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 15:22:00 GMT

The Third Annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge, Florida A&M vs. Southern from Birmingham’s (Ala.) historic Legion Field, will be televised live on ESPN Classic Saturday, Sept. 1 at 3 p.m., ET. Eric Collins will provide the play-by-play with analyst Jay Walker and sideline reporter Monica Knowles.

ESPN Analyst and Two-time NASCAR Champion Crew Chief Tim Brewer on Racing at California Speedway

Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:26:00 GMT

Brewer Reports Live During NASCAR on ESPN Events from the ESPN DISH Tech Center

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 17:23:00 GMT

NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Live in Prime Time on ESPN from California Speedway The fast and competitive California Speedway near Los Angeles will host the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race presented by Principle Financial on Sunday, Sept. 2, for 500 miles of prime-time racing. ESPN will have live coverage from the 2-mile Fontana, Calif., oval beginning at 7 p.m. ET with the pre-race NASCAR Countdown program.

ESPN Media to Provide Extensive Multimedia Coverage of the 2007 College Football Season

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 17:51:00 GMT

ESPN media will offer college football fans the most comprehensive coverage of the sport with programming across multiple television networks around the world as well as radio, internet, cell phones, broadband, pay-per-view and magazines. Highlights include...

ESPN Releases High School Football Super 25 Rankings, Expanded High School Coverage Debuts on ESPN.com

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 14:58:00 GMT

In anticipation of the 2007-08 high school sports season, ESPN.com debuted the 2007 ESPN High School Football Super 25 preseason rankings on August 24 (full list below) The site also announces the addition of Chris Lawlor to the ESPN.com editorial team. Lawlor will oversee a completely revamped and expanded high school sports section, which will be unveiled after Labor Day. In addition to expanding the high school section to include dedicated recruiting pages for football, boys’ basketball and girls’ basketball, ESPN.com will maintain ESPN Super 25 national and regional rankings for the country’s top high school teams in football, boys’ basketball, girls’ basketball and baseball.

Seen and Heard on ESPN2’s NASCAR Countdown from Bristol Motor Speedway

Sat, 25 Aug 2007 14:52:00 GMT

The NASCAR Busch Series took to the fast-paced concrete oval at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee for the first time since the track was resurfaced in the spring. Allen Bestwick hosted NASCAR Countdown at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2; the race telecast began at 8 p.m. Some NASCAR Countdown highlights:

Seen and Heard on ESPN2’s NASCAR Countdown from Bristol Motor Speedway

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 14:46:00 GMT

Live Coverage of Michael Vick’s Monday Hearing to be Simulcast on ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNEWS

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 13:13:00 GMT

ESPN First Take (10 a.m. M-F ESPN2) will expand to four completely live hours Monday, Aug. 27, starting 30 minutes before Michael Vick’s plea hearing in his federal dogfighting case, and be simulcast on ESPN and ESPNEWS. Bob Ley will join co-hosts Dana Jacobson and Jay Crawford, with Michael Kim presenting the regularly scheduled SportsCenter Updates.

ESPN’s BracketBusters to Feature 100 Teams Eligible For One of 14 Telecasts on Feb. 22-23

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 20:19:00 GMT

The sixth annual O’Reilly ESPNU BracketBusters event, a two-day men’s college basketball extravaganza pitting potential NCAA Tournament hopefuls against each other on February 22-23, will feature 14 nationally televised games – on either ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN360.com or ESPN Classic --selected from a pool of 100 teams. The field is highlighted by the return of last season’s BracketBusters participants Butler and Southern Illinois, both Sweet Sixteen teams in last year’s NCAA Tournament.

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series Live in Prime Time at Bristol Motor Speedway

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 19:31:00 GMT

NASCAR NEXTEL Cup at 7 p.m. ET Saturday on ESPN; NASCAR Busch Series at 7:30 p.m. ET Friday on ESPN2 The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series head to Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee this weekend as drivers and teams get ready to lay down rubber on the newly resurfaced concrete racing surface. Fans will see sparks fly with the high speeds and close quarters of Bristol night racing.

ESPN Classic's Top 25 Countdown:50-Hour Marathon of Games from the Top 25 College Football Teams Starts August 28

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 15:58:00 GMT

ESPN Classic’s Top 25 Countdown will showcase the best college teams in a 50-hour marathon beginning Tuesday, Aug 28 at 5 p.m., ET and culminating on Thursday, Aug. 30 at 7 p.m. The marathon will feature classic replays of 25 games – one from each of the Associated Press top-ranked 2007 teams – starting with No. 25 Texas A&M and ending with No. 1 USC. Rece Davis will host.

ESPN to Kick Off College Football Season With 25 Hours of College Football August 29-30

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:32:00 GMT

College football fans anxiously awaiting the 2007 season to begin will be served a healthy dose of pre-season coverage on ESPN with 25 Hours of College Football Presented by TIVO hosted throughout by Rece Davis. ESPN’s innovative way to celebrate the season kick-off will begin Wednesday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. ET and feature 25 consecutive hours of college football-themed programming leading up to the #2 LSU at Mississippi State telecast Thursday, Aug. 30 at 8 p.m. on ESPN.

ESPN Classic’s First Major League Soccer “Instant Classic” Thursday at 7 p.m. ET

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 20:42:00 GMT

Last Saturday’s regular-season Major League Soccer match which featured David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy at the New York Red Bulls, led by the resurgent attacking duo of Jose Altidore and Juan Pablo Angel, will be featured as an “Instant Classic” Thursday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN Classic. The thrilling 5-4 New York victory will be ESPN’s first ever “Instant Classic” presentation of a Major League Soccer match. Highlights:

ESPN Analyst and NASCAR Champion Rusty Wallace on Racing at Bristol Motor Speedway

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Wallace won nine times in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup competition at Bristol and is tied with Dale Earnhardt and Cale Yarborough for second in all-time wins at the track.

2007 WNBA Playoff Action Starts Thursday on ESPN2

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 20:18:00 GMT

ESPN2 and ABC will combine to televise up to six first round WNBA Playoff games starting Thursday, Aug. 23 when Anna DeForge and the Indiana Fever visit Katie Douglas and the Connecticut Sun at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2. ABC’s coverage will begin Sunday, Aug. 26 when the defending champion Detroit Shock host the New York Liberty, who edged into the playoffs by winning their last three games, at 1 p.m. Later that evening Lauren Jackson and the Seattle Storm will face Western Conference rivals the Phoenix Mercury, led by Diana Taurasi in her first playoff appearance, at 7 p.m. on ESPN2.

X Games 13 Makes History with Most-Viewed and Highest Ratings Ever

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 17:18:00 GMT

The success of X Games 13, held in Los Angeles August 2 – 5, reflects the evolving ways that fans engage in action sports today and were a success across television, online and mobile media across the globe. EXPN.com (ESPN.com’s action sports hub) recorded its most overall traffic ever for an X Games with first time live webcasts as well as fan voting for competition. Telecasts of X Games 13 on ESPN delivered the most-viewed X Games ever among Households and Men 12-17, 18-34, 18-49 and 25-54. ESPN's prime time telecasts were up 35% compared to 2006 among M12-17.

Mo Davenport Named Senior VP and General Manager of ESPN Radio

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 16:31:00 GMT

Twenty-two year ESPN veteran Mo Davenport has been named senior vice president and general manager of ESPN Radio, it was announced today by Traug Keller, ESPN senior vice president, production, business divisions. Davenport will be based at ESPN Radio studios in Bristol, Conn. and oversee all aspects of ESPN Radio content, including talk programming, event play-by-play coverage, podcasts and other online content, commentators and production, as well as distribution, ad sales and marketing initiatives for ESPN Radio’s 700 affiliated stations and five owned stations.

ESPN Production Department Re-Organization Several Promotions and New Units Highlighted

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 15:29:00 GMT

Norby Williamson, ESPN executive vice president, production has re-organized the company’s production department to expand the responsibilities of several employees, to create new units to enhance creativity and collaboration across platforms, and to further emphasize ESPN’s commitment to journalism.

ESPNU Doubles Household Distribution with Addition of Time Warner Cable Systems

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 15:09:00 GMT

ESPN and Time Warner Cable announced today the addition of 24-hour college sports network ESPNU to Time Warner Cable’s digital basic channel line-up in New York and New Jersey as of August 30. As part of Time Warner Cable’s corporate commitment to carry ESPNU in all systems throughout its footprint by the end of August, the addition of the New York and New Jersey division will help ESPNU double its availability to approximately 20 million households later this month. ESPNU launched in approximately three million households in March of 2005.

ESPN Acquires Scrum.com From Scrum Limited ESPN Continues to Expand its Global On-line Business through the Acquisition of Scrum.com – The Perfect Pitch for Rugby

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:34:00 GMT

LONDON – ESPN today announced the acquisition of scrum.com - a leading rugby news, scores and information portal. Launched in 1997, scrum.com has established a strong and growing presence among worldwide rugby fans.

Lowell Galindo Named New ESPNU Signature Anchor

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 16:34:00 GMT

ESPNU, the 24-hour college sports network, named Lowell Galindo as its new signature anchor. Galindo will anchor ESPNU's studio programming from Charlotte, N.C., headquarters of ESPN Regional Television (ERT) which handles the primary production responsibilities for ESPNU. His assignments will include hosting stand-alone specials and studio shows such as SportsCenterU, ESPNU Inside The Polls, ESPNU Coaches Spotlight and ESPNU Recruiting Insider. In addition, Galindo’s responsibilities will include pre-game shows, halftimes and postgame hosting duties for many of ESPNU’s live events.

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Live in Prime Time on ESPN from Bristol Motor Speedway One of the most popular events on the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series schedule looms this Saturday night as the series makes its annual visit to Bristol (Tenn.) Motor Speedway for 500 laps of night racing. ESPN will have live coverage from the half-mile concrete oval beginning at 7 p.m. ET with the pre-race NASCAR Countdown program. The race telecast will be presented by Pennzoil.

Fantasy Football Takes The Field on ESPN Television and Radio

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

Weekly ESPNEWS Fantasy Insider Provides Sunday Pre-Kickoff Insights; 3rd Annual SportsCenter Draft Special ESPNEWS Fantasy Insider – 11 a.m. ET Sundays The cornerstone to ESPN's fantasy football television programming is the new weekly, hour-long ESPNEWS Fantasy Insider show on Sunday mornings (11 a.m.), hosted by ESPN’s Merrill Hoge and featuring ESPN’s Howie Schwab and ESPN.com’s Matthew Berry. Each week, Hoge and crew will provide fans a full hour of injury and weather updates, matchups to watch, the morning’s latest news, analysis and more.

ESPN’s Monday Night Football to Feature Fan-Generated Videos

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

ESPN’s Monday Night Football will feature fan-generated videos for the first time in 2007. Throughout the NFL season, fans will be invited to create personalized videos promoting their favorite teams’ upcoming MNF appearance and upload them to the “Monday Night Surround” section on ESPN.com. Two videos will be selected each week and shown on the air during MNF. Videos will highlight the teams set to play in the following week’s MNF game on ESPN, as fans voice why their team will win the game and why NFL fans should tune-in.

ESPN.com's Interactive, Multimedia "Fantasy Football 101" Teaches New Fantasy Players All the Right Moves

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

As football season approaches, ESPN.com introduces Fantasy Football 101 http://games.espn.go.com/frontpage/ffl101 , an interactive, multimedia web site designed to give new fantasy players the tools to succeed in their league, or serve as a refresher for veteran players who want a little pre-season warm up. The site, hosted by Fantasy Football aficionado and ESPN host Trey Wingo, teaches aspiring fantasy players the basics of Fantasy Football through a fun, humorous and in-depth training module that includes dynamic instructional content, tips and tools, videos, a comprehensive Fantasy Football glossary and editorial straight from ESPN’s award-winning fantasy football experts. After completing ESPN.com’s Fantasy Football 101, users will be fully equipped to compete in their own free ESPN Fantasy Football League.

As Seen and Heard Sunday on ESPN's NASCAR Countdown from the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Race at Michigan International Speedway

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

NASCAR DRIVER JEFF GORDON TO ESPN PIT REPORTER JAMIE LITTLE ON THE EMPHASIS OF EARNING EXTRA POINTS FOR WINS IN THE CHASE FOR THE NEXTEL CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series at Michigan International Speedway

Wed, 16 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series will be racing at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Mich., this weekend, a race that often features three and sometimes four-wide racing on the two-mile oval

Inaugural Anaheim Classic on Thanksgiving Weekend to Air on ESPN2 and ESPNU

Wed, 16 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

ANAHEIM, Calif. – ESPN Regional Television, Inc., announced today that the first Anaheim Classic, an eight-team, 12-game, bracketed collegiate basketball tournament, will take place Nov. 22, 23 and 25 at the Anaheim Convention Center. The inaugural field includes two NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 teams from last season, Southern California and Southern Illinois, as well as NCAA first-round participant Miami-Ohio. Complete tournament action will air on either ESPN2 or ESPNU.

ESPN Acquires Expanded Rights to Italy’s Serie A in Latin America Through 2010

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

ESPN has signed a three-year agreement for rights to Italy’s Serie A in Latin America and the Caribbean. The agreement covers the 2007/08 – 2009/10 seasons. Serie A is the top division of the Italian Football League and is widely regarded as one of the top football leagues in the world. The rights were acquired from Media Partners & Silva, the international sports agency that owns and distributes the Italian Serie A media rights worldwide.

Hank Williams, Jr. Returns to ESPN’s Monday Night Football with Brian Setzer and New All-Star Band

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

The names of the NFL superstars who have performed on Monday Night Football the past two decades are constantly changing, but one name has remained constant since 1989 – Hank Williams, Jr. The legendary singer has earned four Emmy awards (1991-1994) and national acclaim among fans for singing the anthem that kicks off the NFL’s weekly primetime showcase game. That legacy will continue for the 19th year when Williams will perform the opening theme to ESPN’s MNF this fall with a new all-star band featuring singer/songwriter Brian Setzer and other popular artists.

ABC, ESPN and ESPN2 Combine to Deliver Every Little League World Series Game from Williamsport

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

ABC, ESPN and ESPN2 will combine to present all 32 games of the Little League World Series presented by Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes from Williamsport, Pa., Aug. 17-26. ABC – entering the network’s 45th consecutive year of Little League World Series coverage – will continue to broadcast the United States Championship (Saturday, Aug. 25 at 3 p.m. ET) and Little League World Series Championship (Sun., Aug. 26 at 3:30 p.m.). Also, for the first time, ABC will broadcast the International Championship Saturday, Aug. 25 at 12:30 p.m. (previously televised on ESPN). Every Little League World Series game on ABC, ESPN and ESPN2 will be available in high definition for the third consecutive year.

ESPN Analyst and Championship Winning Crew Chief Andy Petree on Racing at Michigan International Speedway

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 19:50:00 GMT

Q - What is it about the design of Michigan International Speedway that allows drivers to run almost anyplace on the track (high, low, middle) and still go fast?

ESPN.com’s PodCenter Sees Huge Gains Since Debut; Site to Relaunch with New Audio & Video Podcasts, Enhanced Features

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 22:00:00 GMT

Greater Interactivity, iPhone-Compatible Web Player Highlight Hub; Podcast Player Added to ESPN.com Front Page

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 22:00:00 GMT

NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Live on ESPN at Michigan International Speedway

Award-Winning Journalists J.A. Adande and Howard Bryant Join ESPN.com

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 22:00:00 GMT

Award-winning journalists J.A. Adande and Howard Bryant are joining ESPN.com, both as senior writers. Adande will cover the NBA and other sports as well as write columns, while Bryant will contribute a mix of column writing, investigative reporting and long-form narrative. Additionally, Bryant will contribute to ESPN The Magazine, and both will appear on ESPN television and radio networks.

ESPN Deportes’ SportsCenter and Fútbol Picante Expand

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 22:00:00 GMT

Network Unveils New Soccer Program and Adds Former Soccer Player and Coach Rafa Puente to Commentator Line-up

New Hires and Promotions at ESPN International

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 15:20:00 GMT

ESPN International announces several advertising sales and programming-executive promotions and new hires.

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series at Watkins Glen International

Thu, 9 Aug 2007 20:49:00 GMT

The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series hits the road this weekend at Watkins Glen International for Sunday’s race on the famed upstate New York road racing circuit. ESPN’s coverage from Watkins Glen will include live NASCAR NEXTEL Cup qualifying at 3 p.m. ET Friday, Aug. 10, and Happy Hour final practice at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, both on ESPN2. Live coverage of Sunday’s race will begin at 1 p.m. ET on ESPN with the pre-race NASCAR Countdown program.

The Bronx is Burning: Episode #5 - Caught!

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 14:29:00 GMT

The Yankees go west and their place in the standings goes south. New York is on the brink after Son of Sam strikes again and a terrorist groups sets off several bombs in the city. With the Yankees in a nosedive and facing George’s axe for sure this time, Billy finally acquiesces and bats Reggie clean-up. On the same day the Omega Task Force apprehends David Berkowitz, the Son of Sam. With Reggie occupying his rightful place in the batting order the Yankees go on a tear and with Son of Sam behind bars, the fortunes of New York change for the better as well.

ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN360.com, ESPN Classic, ESPN Mobile TV and ESPN Radio 2007 College Football Schedule

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 20:31:00 GMT

ESPN on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN360.com, ESPN Classic, ESPN Mobile TV and ESPN Radio’s 2007 college football schedule will feature the return of afternoon and primetime windows across multiple platforms, home games from the Pac-10 and Big 12 on ESPN, an expanded schedule on ESPN Classic and more than 50 games on ESPN Mobile TV. The season will kick off Thursday, Aug. 30 and feature 25 games over Labor Day weekend (Thursday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 3).

Field Set for O’Reilly All College Basketball Classic on ESPN2

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 20:08:00 GMT

CELEBRATION, Fla. – The 72nd annual O'Reilly All College Basketball Classic will bring top collegiate basketball action back to Oklahoma City. The Dec. 20 tournament, hosted by the Oklahoma City All Sports Association and ESPN Regional Television, will be played at the Ford Center and will boast four top collegiate basketball programs.

Jimmy V Women’s and Men’s Basketball Classics Pairings Announced for Dec. 3 & 4

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 19:59:00 GMT

Matchups for the 2007 Jimmy V Women’s and Men’s Basketball Classics on December 3 and 4, respectively, two early-season college basketball events showcasing top programs, have been determined with proceeds from each event benefiting The V Foundation for Cancer Research.

ESPN Chronicles Bonds’ Chase to All-Time Record 756th Home Run

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 19:14:00 GMT

ESPN and ESPN2 combined to add 10 of Barry Bonds’ games July 23 through August 8 as he tied and broke the all-time home run record. ESPN2 televised games in which Bonds hit home run 754 (Friday, July 27), tied the 755 mark (Saturday, Aug. 4) and broke the record with his 756th home run (Tuesday, Aug. 7). Dave O’Brien called the historic moment, with analyst Rick Sutcliffe and reporter Erin Andrews. Click here for a clip from ESPN2’s telecast, including the home run and reaction from the ballpark.

The Contender to Return to ESPN September 4

Mon, 6 Aug 2007 21:05:00 GMT

Los Angeles, CA -- The third season of The Contender, the successful boxing series from ESPN, Mark Burnett Productions, and DreamWorks Television will premiere Tuesday, Sept. 4 on ESPN at 10 p.m. ET. The Contender’s second season finale, which featured Grady Brewer and Steve Forbes, was viewed by 2.3 million people and was the highest-rated boxing telecast on ESPN in nine years. Boxing legend and five-time world champion Sugar Ray Leonard will return as host and mentor, guiding the boxers through the most intense training of their careers and the most challenging experience of their lives.

New Programming Strategy for ESPN360.com Broadband Service: The Home For Live Sports Events Online Premier Broadband Service To Feature Multiple Channels of Live Sports; More Than 2000 Live Sports Events Scheduled In Next 12 Months

Wed, 8 Aug 2007 13:39:00 GMT

ESPN360.com will adopt a new programming strategy this fall, becoming a live sports-driven programming service. Under the new programming strategy, the ESPN Digital Media and ESPN Programming units will collaborate to present more than 2000 live events on ESPN360.com in the next 12 months, dramatically growing the service’s programming and delivering to fans the most comprehensive live, multi-sport broadband service anywhere. In 2006, ESPN360.com delivered more than 200 live online sports events, and through July 2007, had featured more than 500 live events.

ESPN Analyst and NASCAR Cup champion Rusty Wallace on Racing at Watkins Glen International

Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:18:00 GMT

Q – You were one of the most successful NASCAR drivers on road courses, with six road course wins in your career. How did you do so well? “Road racing is all about rhythm and compromise. There are so many corners...

Bud Collins Joins ESPN Will Debut on SportsCenter from US Open

Tue, 7 Aug 2007 19:31:00 GMT

Renowned newspaper and television tennis journalist Bud Collins has joined ESPN and will appear on ESPN2’s extensive coverage of Grand Slam events – the Australian Open, the French Open and Wimbledon – beginning in 2008. He also will report for SportsCenter, ESPNEWS and ESPN Radio from the US Open starting this year and throughout the year as tennis news dictates.

Durant & Sobieski Promoted to Vice President at ESPN

Mon, 6 Aug 2007 20:43:00 GMT

Rosalyn Durant and Julie Sobieski have each been promoted from senior director, programming & acquisitions to vice president, programming & acquisitions in ESPN?s programming department. Each joined the company after graduating from college in 1999, having served as an intern with ESPN during the summer of 1998.

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup at Pocono Raceway, 1 p.m. ET Sunday on ESPN; NASCAR Busch Series at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal, 2:30 p.m. ET Saturday on ESPN2

Fri, 3 Aug 2007 18:50:00 GMT

In its second NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race telecast in 2007, ESPN visits Pocono Raceway, where reliable brakes and managing the ?tunnel turn? will be critical to a drivers shot at victory. ESPNs coverage of the Cup Series began last week at Indianapolis, the networks first Cup event since 2000.

ABC and ESPN 2007-08 NBA Schedule

Thu, 2 Aug 2007 17:10:00 GMT

ABC’s and ESPN’s comprehensive 2007-08 NBA regular-season schedule will include 90 games, highlighted by 18 exclusive broadcasts on ABC – the home of the NBA Finals – and 72 games on ESPN. ABC and ESPN, in collaboration with the NBA, will once again present a flexible schedule, providing viewers with the best possible matchups with the most compelling storylines throughout the season. ESPN’s coverage of the NBA season will begin with a pair of “NBA Tip-Off 07” doubleheaders Wednesday, Oct. 31 and Friday, Nov. 2.

ESPN Magazine on Sale Now Prince Fielder –The Brewers 23 Year-Old Star and MVP Contender is Making a Name for Himself – Despite Dirty Refs, Dogfighting and Doping

Wed, 1 Aug 2007 18:17:00 GMT

COVER STORY: MEAT OF THE ORDER. Though he’s only 23, Prince Fielder’s brought a sizzling bat, a sunny smile and a lifetime of experience to the NL Central race. No wonder Milwaukee’s got his back. Jeff Bradley reports.

ESPN2 Adds Bonds’ Game Thursday at 10 p.m. ET

Wed, 1 Aug 2007 19:45:00 GMT

As Barry Bonds attempts to break Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record (Bonds is currently at 754), ESPN2 has added tomorrow’s game when the San Francisco Giants visit the N.L. West rival Los Angeles Dodgers at 10 p.m. ET. The game will also be available on ESPN2 HD. Additionally, ESPN will continue to chronicle Bonds’ pursuit of the record.

Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Live on ESPN Saturday at 6 p.m.

Wed, 1 Aug 2007 19:48:00 GMT

ESPN will present live coverage of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2007 induction ceremonies Saturday, August 4 at 6 p.m. ET from Canton, Ohio. Trey Wingo will host the three-hour telecast – in primetime for the first time – with analyst Tom Jackson. ESPN analyst Emmitt Smith will also make his debut to discuss his former Dallas Cowboys teammate Michael Irvin, who will be inducted in this year’s class. ESPN’s Chris Berman, the longest-serving NFL studio host, will again emcee the ceremony that honors the six members of the Class of 2007 – Gene Hickerson, Irvin, Bruce Matthews, Charlie Sanders, Thurman Thomas and Roger Wehrli. The telecast – which will be re-aired Saturday night at 11 p.m. on ESPN Classic -- will review each inductee’s career with speeches from the inductees and their presenters.

ESPN Granted Unprecedented Access to Bobby Valentine and the World of Japanese Baseball for Bobby V in Japan

Wed, 1 Aug 2007 16:18:00 GMT

ESPN, under its newly named ESPN Content Development group, and in conjunction with Throwback Pictures (Andrew Jenks, Room 335) is currently producing a two-hour documentary-style film about former Major League player and manager, Bobby Valentine, and his current job managing one of Japan’s premiere baseball teams - the Chiba Marines. Slated to air in the Spring of 2008, the tentatively titled “Bobby V in Japan” will give baseball fans and viewers unprecedented access to Valentine and his team, while exploring the impact globalization has on the game’s present and future. Additionally, original online webisodes and written blogs detailing the production of the film and baseball life in Japan will be produced exclusively for ESPN.com’s Page 2.

ESPN X Games Announces First Ever X Games Global Simulcast

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:45:00 GMT

ESPN’s X Games, the world’s premier action sport franchise, has just announced the first ever worldwide simulcast of the opening of an X Games. Scheduled for Thursday August 2, 2007 at 9 p.m. ET, the first five minutes of X Games 13 will air live simultaneously on ESPN in the U.S. and 18 ESPN International networks around the globe reaching 267 million viewers in 145 countries. The entire opening show, as well as an additional 40 hours of X Games 13 coverage, will also be webcast on EXPN.com.

The Bronx is Burning: Episode #4 - The Seven Commandments

Wed, 1 Aug 2007 14:29:00 GMT

Munson goes to the press in hopes of helping Billy’s cause but it completely backfires with George. A twenty-five hour citywide power blackout causes unprecedented looting and arson. At a late night meeting in Milwaukee with George, Munson and Lou Piniella, Billy agrees to bat Reggie fourth but changes his mind two games later. The Yankees fall into third place and George decides to fire Billy, again, but can’t find anyone to take the job. Fear and hysteria grips the city as the anniversary of Sam’s first kill approaches.

ESPN2 Adds David Beckham’s First Match vs. Major League Soccer Team Sunday, August 5

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:21:00 GMT

Coming off ESPN’s record MLS audience from the Saturday, July 21 telecast of David Beckham’s U.S. debut, ESPN2 has added Los Angeles Galaxy’s next MLS match – at Toronto FC – Sunday, Aug. 5 at 7:30 p.m. ET. The match, a special presentation of the new weekly MLS Primetime Thursday series, will be available nationwide on ESPN2 HD and will be blacked out in Los Angeles.

ESPN Analyst and Champion Crew Chief Andy Petree on Pocono Raceway

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:19:00 GMT

ESPN Analyst and Two-Time NASCAR Busch Series Champion Randy LaJoie on Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal

ESPN2 Adds Bonds' Games Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 p.m. ET

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 12:19:00 GMT

As Barry Bonds attempts to break Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record (Bonds is currently at 754), ESPN2 has added two San Francisco Giants games – at divisional rival Los Angeles, which is currently tied for first place in the N.L. West., Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 p.m. ET. Both games will also be available on ESPN2 HD.

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 23:00:00 GMT

The NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series moves this weekend to Pocono Raceway in Pennsylvania for Sunday’s 500-mile race and ESPN will have live coverage beginning at 1 p.m. ET with the pre-race NASCAR Countdown program. The race telecast will be presented by Rush Hour 3.

ESPN’S DIGITAL PLATFORMS MAKE X GAMES 13 MORE ACCESSIBLE THAN EVER TO FANS AROUND THE WORLD

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:25:00 GMT

When X Games 13 begins from Los Angeles, Calif. on August 2, fans around the world will have more ways than ever to experience all of the action. In addition to comprehensive television coverage on ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC, ESPN is utilizing all of its digital platforms to allow fans anywhere, with any device, the ability to follow action sports’ top athletes perform on the premier competitive stage. Fans will find extensive X Games 13 content on EXPN.com, ESPN360.com, ESPN mobile platforms (including ESPN Mobile TV and ESPN MVP), Apple’s iTunes Store, and via DISH Network’sTM interactive TV (ITV) application on DishHOME channel 100.

ESPN to Air 2,000th Remote High Definition Telecast

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:21:00 GMT

ESPN will produce its 2,000th remote telecast in high definition on Sunday, Aug. 5 when the New York Mets visit the Chicago Cubs on Sunday Night Baseball. Sunday Night Baseball was the first event ESPN produced in HD on March 30, 2003. The telecast will mark the milestone with clips of ESPN’s first game in high definition plus memorable show moments from the first four years of ESPN HD and ESPN2 HD.

ESPN's NASCAR Countdown from Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Sun, 29 Jul 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Before the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway ESPN’s NASCAR Countdown analyzed the event as well as recent news in NASCAR. Brent Musburger hosted ESPN’s coverage from Indianapolis as he set the stage for ESPN’s first NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race since 2000. ESPN’s Suzy Kolber hosted NASCAR Countdown at Indianapolis, joined by analyst Brad Daugherty, ESPN’s lead auto racing analyst and the 1989 NASCAR Cup champion Rusty Wallace, and 1999 NASCAR Cup champion and current NASCAR NEXTEL Cup driver Dale Jarrett in the ESPN Pit Studio. Two-time NASCAR champion crew chief Tim Brewer reported from the ESPN DISH Tech Center with the Chevy Cutaway Car.

ESPN2’s NASCAR Countdown from O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis

Sat, 28 Jul 2007 12:00:00 GMT

Before the NASCAR Busch Series race Saturday night at Indianapolis’ O’Reilly Raceway Park, ESPN2’s pre-race show, NASCAR Countdown, analyzed the event as well as recent news in NASCAR. Marty Reid hosted NASCAR Countdown, joined in the booth by two-time NASCAR Busch Series champion Randy LaJoie, who made his debut as an ESPN analyst. Tim Brewer reported from the new ESPN DISH Tech Center with the Chevy Cutaway Car. NASCAR Countdown also included segments from pit reporters Jack Arute, Shannon Spake and Vince Welch as the series visited the .686-mile track for the 26th consecutive year to compete in NASCAR Busch Series at ORP at Indianapolis presented by Hormel Compleats

ESPN to Offer Spanish-language Simulcast of the Pan American Games Boxing and Track & Field Competitions

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:00:00 GMT

ESPN2 will air a Spanish-language simulcast of the Pan American Games boxing final Saturday, July 28 at 1 a.m. ET. Luis Yanez of Dallas , Texas , won the first gold medal for the United States Boxing team today after defeating Kevin Betancourt (14-7) of Venezuela for the light flyweight gold medal at the 2007 Pan American Games.

X Games Benefit Presented by The V Foundation and STAPLES Center Foundation to Kick Off X Games 13

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 22:00:00 GMT

Hosted by ESPN’s and E! Entertainment Television’s Sal Masekela, the X Games benefit will provide music by the world famous KROQ, celebrities, X Games 13 competitors in BMX, Moto X, Skateboard, Surfing and Rally Car Racing. Most notably the following featured athletes will include V Foundation X Games spokespeople Mat Hoffman (BMX), Kenny Bartram (Moto X) and Tricia Byrnes (Snowboard). In addition, 2006 Olympic Snowboard Silver Medalist, Gretchen Bleiller and last year’s X Games BMX Big Gold Medalist, Kevin Robinson, will also be in attendance.

ESPN and ESPN2 to Present all Matches of the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup Live from China, Sept. 10 - 30

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 21:13:00 GMT

ESPN and ESPN2 will combine to present live coverage of all 32 matches of the 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup Monday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 30 in China. Select matches will be re-aired on ESPNU, ESPN Classic and ESPN2. In addition, 30-minute pre-match and one-hour, in-between match studio shows will be aired on select days.

Highlights From Beyond 756 -- An ESPN Town Meeting

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 18:03:00 GMT

ESPN convened a baseball Town Meeting last night, Wednesday, July 25, gathering prominent commentators before a live audience to discuss Barry Bonds’ legacy and how his imminent career home run record and the so-called “Steroid Era” will impact the future of Major League Baseball. The live, 90-minute SportsCenter Special: Beyond 756 -- An ESPN Town Meeting originated from San Francisco’s historic Palace of Fine Arts Theatre near the Golden Gate Bridge.

Columbus Destroyers to Face San Jose SaberCats In ArenaBowl XXI on ABC Sunday

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 21:00:00 GMT

ESPN’s coverage of the 2007 Arena Football League season will culminate Sunday with the live national television broadcast of ArenaBowl XXI between the Columbus Destroyers and San Jose SaberCats from the New Orleans Arena at 3 p.m. ET on ABC. ESPN’s lead Arena Football commentator team of Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic, co-hosts of ESPN Radio’s popular Mike & Mike in the Morning and simulcast on ESPN2, will call the game. It will be the first team championship contested in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina in September 2005.

The Bronx is Burning: Episode #3 – Time for a Change?

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:37:00 GMT

Billy pulls Reggie out of a game for not hustling and the two almost come to blows in the dugout in front of a national television audience. George wants to fire Billy over the incident and getting swept by the Red Sox but faces antagonism from the whole team, including Reggie. Son of Sam strikes again. Mounting pressures reduce Billy to tears in front of Munson.

Experience All the Thrills, Speed and Glory with ESPN Ultimate NASCAR Volumes 1-4!

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:44:00 GMT

Experience the evolution of America’s fastest sport as ESPN Home Entertainment, in conjunction with Genius Products, LLC, releases ESPN Ultimate NASCAR Volumes 1-4 - Volume 1: The Explosion – NASCAR’s Rise, Volume 2: The Dirt, The Cars Speed and Danger; Volume 3: Greatest Drivers, Biggest Races, Hottest Rivalries: and Volume 4: 100 Defining Moments. Each of these DVDs will hit stores nationwide on July 31, 2007; available individually for $16.95 SRP.

ESPN.com Unveils the Fantasy Football Hall of Fame

Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:21:00 GMT

On July 25, ESPN.com will unveil the ESPN Fantasy Football Hall of Fame (FHOF) – to recognize and honor the fantasy heroes of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Every football season, marquee players dominate -- Tomlinson, Manning, Owens, Harrison, Alexander. They are the perennial NFL superstars who will likely end up in the Pro Football Hall of Fame someday. But in fantasy football, it's often unsung players who come out of nowhere and help General Managers win their league championships. It is in this spirit that ESPN.com has created the Fantasy Football Hall of Fame.

Highlights from NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Returns to ESPN and ABC Conference Call

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Highlights from NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Returns to ESPN and ABC Conference Call ESPN, which has televised more NASCAR Cup races than any other network, will have live High Definition coverage of the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard at 1 p.m. ET Sunday, July 29. Norby Williamson, ESPN Executive Vice President, Studio & Remote Production; Jed Drake, Senior Vice President & Executive Producer; and the members of the telecast booth – announcer Dr. Jerry Punch and analysts Rusty Wallace and Andy Petree – participated in a media conference call today. Some highlights:”

David Beckham’s Debut – Most-viewed MLS Telecast on ESPN and ESPN2

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

ESPN’s telecast of the Chelsea FC at LA Galaxy match, July 21 at 9 p.m. ET, seen in an average of 947,000 television homes (1.468 million, P2+), based on a 1.0 rating, is the most-viewed Major League Soccer telecast ever on ESPN or ESPN2, according to Nielsen Media Research data. The telecast, which featured David Beckham playing for 16 minutes in his first match in a Galaxy uniform despite nursing an ankle injury, was also the most-viewed and highest-rated program of the night on ad-supported cable networks among Men 18-49 and 25-54.

The match beat the previous most-viewed telecast – DC United vs. San Jose Clash on April, 4, 1996 – seen in 681,000 homes (1.092 million, P2+), based on a 1.0 rating. The DC United vs. San Jose Clash was the first match in the League’s 12-year history.

David Beckham’s MLS debut also beat the most-viewed U.S. Soccer National Team match (excluding FIFA World Cup tournament) on ESPN or ESPN2. Previously, the most-viewed U.S. National Team telecast was seen in 680,000 homes (915,000, P2+) and 0.9 rating

ESPN Draft Track Technology Will Allow NASCAR Fans to 'See the Air'

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

For years, NASCAR fans have heard about the effects of drafting on high-speed racetracks and how certain drivers, such as the late Dale Earnhardt, were so good in the draft it was said they could “see the air.”

ESPN Chronicling Bonds' Pursuit of Home Run Record

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

ESPN will continue to chronicle Barry Bonds’ attempt to break Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record, including:

live cut-ins and short turn-around highlights of Bonds’ at bats when he goes for home runs 754, 755 and 756 during all Major League Baseball game telecasts;
live cut-in or taped highlights in non-MLB programming;
short turn-around highlights of home runs 754, 755 and 756 on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS and ESPN on ABC;
select cut-ins to Bonds’ at bats through home run 756 on ESPN.com;
live cut-ins to each Bonds’ at bat once he reaches 754 home runs on ESPN Radio;
comprehensive SportsCenter and ESPNEWS coverage – highlights, news and information – following on- and off-the-field storylines.

Additional programming will include:

ESPN Remembers: The Long Winter of Henry Aaron

ESPN2 will premiere ESPN Remembers: The Long Winter of Henry Aaron tonight at 7 p.m. ET. The one-hour presentation will feature a vintage documentary on Aaron by Tom Brokaw, which

ESPN Classic to Present Exclusive Live Coverage of the Baseball Hall of Fame Ceremony July 29

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Cal Ripken, Jr. and Tony Gwynn to be Inducted
Eight Hours of Coverage, Starting at Noon Sunday

ESPN Classic will present live exclusive coverage of the induction of Cal Ripken, Jr. and Tony Gwynn into the Baseball Hall of Fame Sunday, July 29 in Cooperstown, N.Y. as part of eight hours of related coverage starting at noon ET. Ripken, who owns the major league record for consecutive games played, was a 19-time All-Star for the Baltimore Orioles. Gwynn, a 15-time All-Star for the San Diego Padres, has a record-tying eight National League batting titles.

ESPN Classic's eight hours of Hall of Fame programming will include live coverage of the induction ceremonies at 1:30 p.m. and replays of games featuring memorable moments for both Ripken and Gwynn: Ripken breaking Lou Gehrig's consecutive game record on September 6, 1995 (California Angels @ Baltimore Orioles); and Gwynn's 3000th hit on August 6, 1999 (San Diego Padres @ Montreal Expos). Brian Kenny will host the live coverage with analyst Tim Kurkjian.

Both Ripken and Gwynn were elected to the Hall of Fame on their

College GameDay to Telecast on ESPN HD in 2007

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

See all the pageantry and excitement of the college game day experience this fall when ESPN begins telecasting College GameDay Built by The Home Depot in high definition. The show’s move to HD for its 21st season is part of ESPN’s commitment to showing all college football in the high definition format.

College GameDay will air every Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon during the college football season. This year will mark the 14th consecutive year College GameDay will consistently originate from the site of one of the day’s best games or most compelling storylines. College GameDay will launch this year on Saturday, September 1 in Blacksburg, Va. with East Carolina at Virginia Tech.

On top of the expert analysis, College GameDay conveys the pulse of the fans on campus to the home viewer by showing all that makes college football an exciting sporting event. From the mascots to the cheerleaders to students who have camped out overnight, viewers get to see beyond the typical football telecast when they watch College GameDay

ESPN To Debut Innovative DISH Tech Center in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Coverage

Tue, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

ESPN, which is presenting the most technologically-advanced coverage of NASCAR in motorsports television history, will take that technology to another level with the debut of the innovative ESPN DISH Tech Center mobile television studio in the network's NASCAR NEXTEL Cup coverage beginning this weekend at Indianapolis.

Sheraton Hawaii Bowl Announces Two-Year Extension with Pac-10

Tue, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Televised on ESPN at 8 p.m. ET Dec. 23 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu CELEBRATION, Fla. – Sheraton Hawaii Bowl officials announced today that a team from the Pac-10 Conference will play a Western Athletic Conference team (WAC) at the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl in the 2008 and 2009 post-season games. “We are very pleased that the Pac-10 has agreed to extend its relationship with the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl through 2009,” said Jim Donovan, Sheraton Hawaii Bowl executive director. “The 2006 game involving Arizona State was one of our most successful to date.”

Witness The Greatest Moments In X Games and Winter X Games History - All On DVD!

Tue, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Relive the most awe-inspiring moments in X Games and Winter X Games history as ESPN Home Entertainment, in conjunction with Genius Products, LLC, exclusively brings all the gravity-defying tricks, unbelievable comebacks, incredible wins and drama of X Games to DVD. The Best of X Games will hit stores nationwide on Tomorrow, July 24, 2007 for $19.95 SRP. The Best of X Games includes incredible feats that span more than a decade, comprehensively cataloging some of the best tricks on snow, rail, track and in the air, ever performed. The DVD gives fans a chance to witness skateboarding legend Tony Hawk’s 900; snowboarding’s Olympic champion Shaun White’s four Gold Medal dominance in Slopestyle; and Moto X rider turned Rally Car driver Travis Pastrana’s Moto X Double Back Flip - plus many more.

ESPN Networks To Have 66 Hours of NASCAR Programming This Week

Tue, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

As NASCAR NEXTEL Cup racing returns to ESPN this weekend with coverage of the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard from Indianapolis Motor Speedway, ESPN networks will have 66 hours of programming this week to commemorate the first Cup race coverage on ESPN since 2000. Highlighting NASCAR programming this week will be two live races, the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup event from IMS on ESPN and the NASCAR Busch Series race from O’Reilly Raceway Park at Indianapolis on ESPN2, as well as practice and qualifying coverage from both on ESPN2. In addition, ESPN’s daily news and information show, NASCAR Now, will expand to an hour for three days this week and will air Monday through Thursday on both ESPN and ESPN2. ESPN will also air a series of new historical documentaries in prime time every night this week.

RCN and Disney-ABC Television Group and ESPN Sign Multi-Year Agreement to Provide Subscribers with Wide Range of Programming, Content & Services

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Deal Includes Access to ESPN360.com, ABC News Now, ESPN2 HD and Disney and ESPN Content for RCN Video On Demand

HERNDON, VA and NEW YORK, July 23, 2007 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- RCN Corporation (NASDAQ: RCNI), a leading provider of video, data, and voice services to residential and business customers, announced today a comprehensive, multi-year programming agreement with ESPN and the Disney-ABC Television Group for access to a wide range of programming, networks and services.

“At RCN, we pride ourselves on connecting our customers with something more,” said RCN President & CEO Peter Aquino. “With this agreement, we continue to do just that. We are pleased to offer our subscribers the high-quality, sports, news and entertainment cable programs, broadband services and Video on Demand (VOD) choices that Disney and ESPN Networks provide.”

Under this agreement, RCN will carry major Disney-ABC Television Group and ESPN programming and broadband services, including:

A wide range of video-on-demand programming from Disney Channel, ABC Family Channel, ESPN, ABC News broadcasts and an ABC News Now broadband portal will be available to those customers with VOD-enabled

ESPN's NASCAR Countdown from Gateway International Raceway

Sat, 21 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Before the NASCAR Busch Series race Saturday at Gateway International Raceway, ESPN’s pre-race show, NASCAR Countdown, analyzed the event as well as recent news in NASCAR. Allen Bestwick hosted NASCAR Countdown from the ESPN Pit Studio, joined by racing analysts Rusty Wallace and Brad Daugherty. Two-time NASCAR champion crew chief Tim Brewer reported from the ESPN Chevy Cutaway Car.

NASCAR Countdown included segments from pit reporters Mike Massaro, Dave Burns, Shannon Spake and Jamie Little as the Busch Series visited the St. Louis area, home to Wallace, the 1989 NASCAR Cup champion.

Home is where the race is: Rusty Wallace returns to hometown area

RUSTY WALLACE: "It means everything in the world -- for the family and for myself.

"There's a lot of emotions, that's for sure, because this is St. Louis, this is where it all started for us. There's a lot of people here to watch the brothers and really cheer for all of them. I'm excited about it, I really feel like Mike and Kenny can hold their

ESPN2 Adds Bonds' Game Monday at 10 p.m. ET

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

As Barry Bonds attempts to break Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record, ESPN2 has added Atlanta at San Francisco Monday, July 23 at 10 p.m. ET. Commentary will be provided by ESPN’s Monday Night Baseball team of Dave O’Brien, analyst Rick Sutcliffe and reporter Erin Andrews. The game will follow ESPN2’s previously announced telecast – Boston at Cleveland – at 7 p.m. Gary Thorne will call the Red Sox/Indians game with Orel Hershiser and Steve Phillips.

In addition to Monday’s game, ESPN will provide live cut-ins and short turn-around highlights to Bonds’ at bats during all Major League Baseball programming (Sunday Night Baseball, Monday Night Baseball, Wednesday Night Baseball and Baseball Tonight). ESPN will also offer live or taped cut-ins in non-MLB programming, plus taped highlights of home runs #754, #755 and #756 on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS and ESPN on ABC. Bonds currently stands at 753 career home runs.

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Two-Time NASCAR Busch Series Champion Randy LaJoie Joins ESPN for Two Races

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Randy LaJoie, a two-time NASCAR Busch Series champion, has joined ESPN’s NASCAR coverage team and will serve as analyst on two upcoming race telecasts.

LaJoie, who won the series title in 1996 and 1997, will work in the booth for ESPN2’s live coverage of the NASCAR Busch Series event at 7:30 p.m. ET Saturday, July 28, at O’Reilly Raceway Park in Indianapolis. He also will be part of ESPN2’s coverage of the Aug. 4 inaugural NASCAR Busch Series event at Circuit Gilles Villenueve in Montreal.

The Norwalk, Conn., native last raced in the NASCAR Busch Series in 2006. He will bring his experience of two championships, 15 wins and 347 starts in the series to ESPN’s coverage team. His resume includes stints in the NASCAR Cup Series as well as the 1985 championship of the former NASCAR North Series.

“I think I know enough about the series and the drivers to hopefully give the race fans at home a different view, and maybe even a laugh or two,” said LaJoie, who previously has worked as analyst on a handful of NASCAR Craftsman Truck

ESPN to Commemorate Hank Aaron's Record and Chronicle Barry Bonds' Pursuit

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

As Barry Bonds closes in on Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record, ESPN2 will premiere ESPN Remembers: The Long Winter of Henry Aaron Tuesday, July 24 at 7 p.m. ET. The one-hour special presentation will feature a vintage documentary on Aaron by Tom Brokaw, which was originally aired on NBC in October 1973. Additionally, the program will include new material from Brokaw and recent interviews with Aaron, Bonds and former Aaron teammate/San Francisco Giants manager and current ESPN analyst Dusty Baker, who was in the on-deck circle when Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s record.

Brokaw recently reflected on the original documentary in 1973: “We did think he was going to break the record (in 1973 when Brokaw and crew were following Aaron) and we were hoping for that, but then it turned out to be a much more important documentary because (he was stuck on 713 home runs after the season, just one short of tying the record) we renamed it "The Long Winter of Henry Aaron." And he kept from us at the beginning the kind of hateful mail he was

Pan American Games Baseball Finals on ESPN Deportes

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

US National Baseball Team to Face Off the Cuban National Baseball Team for the Gold Medal

ESPN Deportes, the exclusive Spanish-language home of the Pan American Games, will telecast the Baseball finals between team USA vs. Cuba, Friday, July 20 at 11:20 a.m. ET. The game will be re-aired at 3 a.m., ET; 12:00 PST.

The U.S. National Baseball team defeated Mexico 2-1 and Cuba made its move to the finals after eliminating Nicaragua 4-0.

ESPN Deportes is available to customers of Cablevision, Charter, Comcast, Cox, Insight, Cable One, Time Warner Cable, RCN, and with the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC). ESPN Deportes affiliates serve many of the largest U.S. Hispanic markets including Los Angeles, New York, Miami-Ft. Lauderdale, Houston, Chicago, Dallas-Ft. Worth, San Antonio, San Francisco and Phoenix. ESPN Deportes is also available nationally on DISH Latino and DIRECTV MÁS.

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ESPN to Commemorate Hank Aaron’s Record and Chronicle Barry Bonds’ Pursuit

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

ESPNU, ESPN and ESPN2 2007 High School Football Schedule

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Coverage Begins Aug. 25; ESPN 150 to be Announced July 22 on ESPNU

ESPNU, ESPN and ESPN2, in conjunction with Paragon Marketing Group, will televise at least 14 live high school football games as part of the 2007 ESPNU Old Spice High School Showcase. The series of games will include teams from 12 different states with 10 games on ESPNU, one on ESPN and three on ESPN2. The high school football series will open with two contests on Saturday, Aug. 25, featuring Booker T. Washington (Fla.) vs. Summerville (S.C.) at noon ET on ESPN and First Coast (Fla.) vs. Berkeley (S.C.) at 4 p.m. on ESPNU.

On Sunday, July 22 at 8 p.m., ESPNU will take a deeper look at the Old Spice Showcase schedule and also announce the ESPN 150 Class of 2008 during a special edition of ESPNU Recruiting Insider: ESPN 150. The ESPN 150 is a nationwide ranking of top prep football prospects. The ranking pulls from scouting information and evaluations of nearly 2,200 prep prospects. The

“The Bronx Is Burning:” Relive the Climactic Ups and Downs of a City and its Team in turmoil in ESPN’s Historic Eight-Part Dramatic Series on Special Edition DVD

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

3-Disc DVD Features More Than 2 Hours of Bonus Content Including Highly Coveted Steinbrenner and Jackson Interviews, 1977 Yankee Stats and Bios and Multiple Featurettes

Click here for downloadable image.

Star Studded Cast Features John Turturro as Billy Martin, Oliver Platt as George Steinbrenner and Daniel Sunjata as Reggie Jackson

ESPN Home Entertainment, in conjunction with Genius Products, LLC, brings the highly anticipated screen adaptation of Jonathan Mahler’s bestseller about the New York Yankees’ unforgettable 1977 summer to DVD. Backlit by a city in turmoil, The Bronx is Burning is a historic eight-part dramatic series that takes Yankee fans to a time in history when their favorite team was on the brink of destruction and the world championship! The Bronx is Burning will hit stores nationwide on September 25, 2007 for $39.92 SRP. Order due date is August 14, 2007.

"As Martin, the remarkable John Turturro gives a haunting, pitch-perfect performance, capturing the demon-driven manager's rage

ESPN MediaZone

ESPN.com, ESPN Mobile TV Introduce Two Original Digital Football Programs

ESPN’S Sunday NFL Countdown and Monday Night Countdown Features

FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007: Four Days Away

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series Live in Prime Time at Richmond International Raceway

2007 NFL Season on ESPN

ABC To Have Live Coverage of Dramatic IndyCar Series Season Finale

ESPN Analysts Rusty Wallace and Tim Brewer on Racing at Richmond International Raceway; NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Returns to ABC

Field Announced for O’Reilly Auto Parts Puerto Rico Tip-Off on ESPN2 and ESPNU

ESPN360.com and Verizon Join Forces to Crown The King of Fandom

New-Look ESPN360.com Delivers Next-Generation Live Sports Broadband Network

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

As Seen and Heard on ESPN’s NASCAR Countdown from California Speedway

ESPN Names New Primetime Newsmagazine E:60

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series Live in Prime Time at California Speedway

ESPN and ESPN2 FIFA Women’s World Cup 2007 Commentators

50 Cent, Perry Farrell’s Satellite Party and Kelly Rowland to Provide Theme Song for Saturday Night Football on ABC

ESPN’s Monday Night Football Chalk Talk Luncheon Series

Is This Finally LaDainian Tomlinson’s Year? Will He Lead the Chargers to Arizona? Check Out ESPN The Magazine’s Biggest Football Preview Ever!

ESPN to Offer Comprehensive College Football Coverage on Mobile Platforms

College GameDay to Kick Off the Season in Blacksburg, Va. September 1; Features New Fan Interactive Elements

College Football Season to Kick Off With 25 Games Over Labor Day Weekend on Multiple ESPN Outlets

ESPN on ABC To Cover Chase for NASCAR NEXTEL Cup

MEAC/SWAC Challenge: Florida A&M vs. Southern Sept. 1 on ESPN Classic

ESPN Analyst and Two-time NASCAR Champion Crew Chief Tim Brewer on Racing at California Speedway

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

ESPN Media to Provide Extensive Multimedia Coverage of the 2007 College Football Season

ESPN Releases High School Football Super 25 Rankings, Expanded High School Coverage Debuts on ESPN.com

Seen and Heard on ESPN2’s NASCAR Countdown from Bristol Motor Speedway

Seen and Heard on ESPN2’s NASCAR Countdown from Bristol Motor Speedway

Live Coverage of Michael Vick’s Monday Hearing to be Simulcast on ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNEWS

ESPN’s BracketBusters to Feature 100 Teams Eligible For One of 14 Telecasts on Feb. 22-23

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series Live in Prime Time at Bristol Motor Speedway

ESPN Classic's Top 25 Countdown:50-Hour Marathon of Games from the Top 25 College Football Teams Starts August 28

ESPN to Kick Off College Football Season With 25 Hours of College Football August 29-30

ESPN Classic’s First Major League Soccer “Instant Classic” Thursday at 7 p.m. ET

ESPN Analyst and NASCAR Champion Rusty Wallace on Racing at Bristol Motor Speedway

2007 WNBA Playoff Action Starts Thursday on ESPN2

X Games 13 Makes History with Most-Viewed and Highest Ratings Ever

Mo Davenport Named Senior VP and General Manager of ESPN Radio

ESPN Production Department Re-Organization Several Promotions and New Units Highlighted

ESPNU Doubles Household Distribution with Addition of Time Warner Cable Systems

ESPN Acquires Scrum.com From Scrum Limited ESPN Continues to Expand its Global On-line Business through the Acquisition of Scrum.com – The Perfect Pitch for Rugby

Lowell Galindo Named New ESPNU Signature Anchor

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Fantasy Football Takes The Field on ESPN Television and Radio

ESPN’s Monday Night Football to Feature Fan-Generated Videos

ESPN.com's Interactive, Multimedia "Fantasy Football 101" Teaches New Fantasy Players All the Right Moves

As Seen and Heard Sunday on ESPN's NASCAR Countdown from the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Race at Michigan International Speedway

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series at Michigan International Speedway

Inaugural Anaheim Classic on Thanksgiving Weekend to Air on ESPN2 and ESPNU

ESPN Acquires Expanded Rights to Italy’s Serie A in Latin America Through 2010

Hank Williams, Jr. Returns to ESPN’s Monday Night Football with Brian Setzer and New All-Star Band

ABC, ESPN and ESPN2 Combine to Deliver Every Little League World Series Game from Williamsport

ESPN Analyst and Championship Winning Crew Chief Andy Petree on Racing at Michigan International Speedway

ESPN.com’s PodCenter Sees Huge Gains Since Debut; Site to Relaunch with New Audio & Video Podcasts, Enhanced Features

Motorsports This Week on ESPN and ABC

Award-Winning Journalists J.A. Adande and Howard Bryant Join ESPN.com

ESPN Deportes’ SportsCenter and Fútbol Picante Expand

New Hires and Promotions at ESPN International

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup and NASCAR Busch Series at Watkins Glen International

The Bronx is Burning: Episode #5 - Caught!

ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN360.com, ESPN Classic, ESPN Mobile TV and ESPN Radio 2007 College Football Schedule

Field Set for O’Reilly All College Basketball Classic on ESPN2

Jimmy V Women’s and Men’s Basketball Classics Pairings Announced for Dec. 3 & 4

ESPN Chronicles Bonds’ Chase to All-Time Record 756th Home Run

The Contender to Return to ESPN September 4

New Programming Strategy for ESPN360.com Broadband Service: The Home For Live Sports Events Online Premier Broadband Service To Feature Multiple Channels of Live Sports; More Than 2000 Live Sports Events Scheduled In Next 12 Months

ESPN Analyst and NASCAR Cup champion Rusty Wallace on Racing at Watkins Glen International

Bud Collins Joins ESPN Will Debut on SportsCenter from US Open

Durant & Sobieski Promoted to Vice President at ESPN

NASCAR Countdown Previews: NASCAR NEXTEL Cup at Pocono Raceway, 1 p.m. ET Sunday on ESPN; NASCAR Busch Series at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal, 2:30 p.m. ET Saturday on ESPN2

ABC and ESPN 2007-08 NBA Schedule

ESPN Magazine on Sale Now ** Prince Fielder –The Brewers 23 Year-Old Star and MVP Contender is Making a Name for Himself – Despite Dirty Refs, Dogfighting and Doping **

ESPN2 Adds Bonds’ Game Thursday at 10 p.m. ET

Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Live on ESPN Saturday at 6 p.m.

ESPN Granted Unprecedented Access to Bobby Valentine and the World of Japanese Baseball for Bobby V in Japan

ESPN X Games Announces First Ever X Games Global Simulcast

The Bronx is Burning: Episode #4 - The Seven Commandments

ESPN2 Adds David Beckham’s First Match vs. Major League Soccer Team Sunday, August 5

ESPN Magazine on Sale Now Prince Fielder –The Brewers 23 Year-Old Star and MVP Contender is Making a Name for Himself – Despite Dirty Refs, Dogfighting and Doping

Cal Ripken, Jr. and Tony Gwynn to be Inducted
Eight Hours of Coverage, Starting at Noon Sunday