Sports USA Radio Network
Sports USA Media stands as the largest independent sports broadcasting radio network in the United States. By 2018, more than 450 radio stations across the country carried its live broadcasts of American football. The organization specializes specifically in NCAA football Division I-A and National Football League games. This massive reach distinguishes it from smaller regional networks that serve only local markets. The company built this infrastructure to deliver consistent coverage to a wide audience without relying on major national television contracts.
The network began broadcasting NFL games in 2002 with a unique agreement model. Sports USA broadcasts two games every Sunday during the regular season for a total of 36 games annually. These broadcasts occur by arrangement with individual home teams rather than through a central league contract. This strategy allows the network to secure specific matchups while maintaining independence from traditional league-wide deals. Home teams retain control over their own broadcast rights while gaining access to the network's extensive station list.
In February 2021, Sports USA reached a deal with NBC Sports to take over national hockey rights. NBC was phasing out both radio and hockey operations at that time. That season, the network aired two outdoor games along with selected early round playoff matches. Coverage extended to all games from the Stanley Cup Semifinals and Finals. Later in 2021, Sports USA renewed its rights until the 2024-25 season. Unlike other league championship coverage, this arrangement is not exclusive. Stations affiliated with participating Stanley Cup Finals team networks can still carry and stream the coverage.
Play-by-play announcers include the network's founder Larry Kahn who previously broadcast USC Trojans football. John Ahlers serves as the Anaheim Ducks broadcaster while Bob Fitzgerald calls Golden State Warriors games. Eli Gold appears on air as well after his work as the voice of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Analysts bring diverse backgrounds including former Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera. Brian Hayward worked as an NHL goaltender before becoming an Anaheim Ducks color commentator. Stephen Gostkowski holds the New England Patriots all-time scoring record and Charles Arbuckle played tight end for the Indianapolis Colts.
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Common questions
What is Sports USA Media and how many stations carry its broadcasts?
Sports USA Media stands as the largest independent sports broadcasting radio network in the United States. By 2018, more than 450 radio stations across the country carried its live broadcasts of American football.
When did Sports USA start broadcasting NFL games and how many does it air annually?
The network began broadcasting NFL games in 2002 with a unique agreement model. Sports USA broadcasts two games every Sunday during the regular season for a total of 36 games annually.
Why did Sports USA Media acquire national hockey rights from NBC Sports in February 2021?
In February 2021, Sports USA reached a deal with NBC Sports to take over national hockey rights because NBC was phasing out both radio and hockey operations at that time. That season, the network aired two outdoor games along with selected early round playoff matches.
Who founded Sports USA Media and what teams do they cover?
Play-by-play announcers include the network's founder Larry Kahn who previously broadcast USC Trojans football. John Ahlers serves as the Anaheim Ducks broadcaster while Bob Fitzgerald calls Golden State Warriors games.
Which former athletes work as analysts or commentators for Sports USA Media?
Analysts bring diverse backgrounds including former Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera. Brian Hayward worked as an NHL goaltender before becoming an Anaheim Ducks color commentator and Stephen Gostkowski holds the New England Patriots all-time scoring record.