ESPN will launch a 24-hour television network devoted to University of Texas athletics, the network announced Wednesday.
ESPN has agreed to a 20-year, $300 million deal to operate the as-yet-unnamed network, which is set to launch in September. The University of Texas will receive “more than 80 percent of revenue” (businessweek.com, 1/19/11).
The network is scheduled to carry 200 sporting events annually, including at least one exclusive football telecast per year, and a minimum of eight men’s basketball games (ESPN, 1/19/11).
In addition to sporting events, the network will also air studio shows, documentaries, and even non-athletic programming. ESPN plans to “have an on-campus studio presence” in Austin, TX.
