The Varsity USA Sports’ Digital Glow-Up
Dec 14, 2025
Matt Hong, President of USA Sports and former COO of Turner Sports, discusses the digital transformation following the spin-off from Versant. He highlights significant investments in women's sports like volleyball and the WNBA, emphasizing their growth potential. Matt explores how NASCAR is poised for a resurgence and defends the continued relevance of linear TV in a digital age. The conversation also dives into innovative programming strategies that intertwine volleyball and WNBA events, showcasing a multifaceted approach to sports broadcasting.
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Why Matt Joined Versant
- Matt recounts being skeptical about returning to TV until Mark Lazarus sold him on a transformational plan.
- He quickly joined when he heard the team Mark was assembling and the vision for investing in digital adjacencies.
Linear TV As A Startup Foundation
- Versant will treat its legacy linear networks as a foundation while building adjacent digital businesses.
- Golf's Golf Now and Golf Pass show how a vertical can be 50% linear and 50% digital revenue for sustained growth.
Twins Turned College Roommates
- Versant and NBC will be legally separate after the spin but remain collaborative on programming and talent where it makes sense.
- Rights and talent contracts were split to preserve continuity for fans while allowing independent deals going forward.