DraftKings, MSG Networks to set fantasy broadcast first

DraftKings and US regional pay-television channel MSG Networks will today (Monday) set an industry-first with a dedicated fantasy sports broadcast.

MSG Networks, which owns two US regional sports and entertainment networks in MSG Network and MSG Plus, will partner the daily fantasy sports (DFS) firm to broadcast a ‘DraftKings Fantasy Live’ show in a parallel telecast and game call during the NBA basketball game between the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers.

The DraftKings Fantasy Live show will appear on the MSG Plus network and also feature on the MSG GO live streaming and video-on-demand platform.

The traditional Knicks telecast will be shown on the MSG Network as originally scheduled, while MSG Networks’ Knicks pre- and postgame shows will also be the same on both networks.

“We are always looking for new ways to engage our fans around our live games,” MSG Networks senior vice-president of marketing and content strategy, Kevin Marotta, said.

“And with the popularity of daily fantasy sites as well as our ongoing partnership with DraftKings, we felt a big game like this was a perfect opportunity to bring something new to our viewers.”

The move comes after DraftKings last week claimed another market-first by expanding its deal with Euroleague Basketball to begin live-streaming events to players in North America.

Ezra Kucharz, chief business officer of DraftKings, added: “DraftKings is committed to creating new opportunities through our partnerships to offer the most value to, and best experiences for sports fans everywhere,” said

“Through this broadcast, we hope to combine the best of fantasy and live sports content through a dynamic and entertaining program.”

Related article: DraftKings sets first with Euroleague streaming deal