Colorado Basketball Fans Score Big Win: WNBA Games Remain Free Over-the-Air in Pikes Peak Region
Colorado sports enthusiasts and basketball families will continue enjoying free access to professional women's basketball as the WNBA extends its partnership with ION Television, reaching over 128 million households including the Colorado Springs and Denver metro areas through local over-the-air broadcasts.
The announcement comes at a crucial time for Colorado's growing women's basketball community, as viewership of WNBA Friday Night Spotlight games has surged an impressive 133% in 2024. Local basketball programs and youth sports organizations across the Centennial State are celebrating the extended coverage, which provides young Colorado athletes with more opportunities to watch professional women's basketball.
Impact for Colorado Families
For Colorado Springs and Denver area residents, the partnership means continued free access to professional women's basketball through local ION affiliate stations, according to FCC public records. This accessibility is particularly valuable for military families stationed at Peterson Space Force Base, Fort Carson, and the Air Force Academy who rely on over-the-air television.
"The WNBA's partnership with Scripps has already delivered great results in expanding the league's reach and visibility," said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. "This new multi-year agreement reflects the growing excitement surrounding the league and the rising demand for WNBA games."
Record-Breaking Growth
The extended coverage comes amid unprecedented growth for women's basketball, with the WNBA reporting:
- 23 million unique viewers watched ION's games and wrap shows in 2024
- League attendance reached its highest point in 22 years with 2,353,735 fans
- Overall attendance increased 48% from 2023
For Colorado's aspiring young athletes and their families, the partnership ensures continued access to weekly doubleheaders and the league's first-ever dedicated studio show, providing inspiration and professional role models for the next generation of Colorado basketball stars.
The extended broadcast agreement maintains ION's position alongside ESPN and CBS Sports as official WNBA broadcast partners, ensuring Colorado viewers have multiple ways to follow their favorite teams and players throughout the season.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
