The Press Box A Readout on ESPN’s Deals With the NFL and WWE. Plus: NBA Mouthpiece Summer and the New York Post Comes to L.A.
Aug 7, 2025
The hosts kick off with a discussion about threats to the Voting Rights Act and Texas redistricting. They delve into ESPN's significant new deals with the NFL and WWE, exploring the implications for broadcasting rights and viewer access starting in 2026. The conversation shifts to the evolving NBA media landscape, spotlighting Shams Charania's impact since Woj retired and the challenges LeBron James faces in maintaining his media influence. They wrap up by sharing insights on the New York Post's expansion into Los Angeles.
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Jesse Jackson's Voting Rights Warning
- Joel Anderson shared a personal story about attending a 2004 NABJ panel on the Voting Rights Act.
- Jesse Jackson warned then about threats to voting rights that are still relevant today.
ESPN's Major WWE Investment
- ESPN paid $325 million annually for WWE's 10 premium live events starting in 2026, surpassing Peacock's prior $180 million deal.
- Adding wrestling boosts ESPN's year-round app appeal with engaged fans.
NBA Media's Low-Key Summer
- Shams Charania’s NBA updates often provide very little new information yet get wide attention.
- The NBA media landscape feels like a low-energy era compared to past high-impact reporting.
