Universal Sports Network has signed a multiyear, multiplatform distribution agreement with the National Cable Television Cooperative for the network’s exclusive Olympic, endurance and action sports fare.
Under the master agreement with NCTC, financial terms of which were not disclosed, the Co-op nearly 900 members can opt into the accord, which not only covers Universal Sports' high-definition, linear channel and authenticated TV Everywhere rights across myriad devices, but an array of video-on-demand contest as well.
Prior to the pact, Universal Sports had inked separate agreements with a number of NCTC members, including Google Fiber, Wave Broadband, GCI and Hawaiian Telcom.
Those Co-op members who opt into the master agreement will enable their subscriber bases to check out Universal's winter season sports, highlighted by top alpine skiing and figure skating competitions.
“We are excited to partner with NCTC on the distribution of our exclusive global sports programming as we continue to grow the reach of our network,” said Universal Sports president Scott Brown. “With a wide variety of sports and world-class events not available on other networks, Universal Sports fills a void and will provide NCTC members with additional value for their subscribers as operators continue to expand their sports offerings.”
“NCTC looks forward to a successful new partnership with Universal Sports Network. We are happy to offer our members the opportunity to showcase a unique variety of sports programming, including coverage of Olympic sports and athletes, and other exclusive events,” noted Judy Meyka, NCTC executive vice president of programming.
With the Co-op contract, Universal Sports, a venture between NBC Sports Group and Leo Hindery's InterMedia Partners, will look to expand its reach, The network, currently available to 62 million homes nationwide, currently counts DirecTV, Dish Network, Time Warner Cable, Bright House Networks, Cox Communications, Verizon FiOS and Google Fiber on its affiliate roster.
