A+E Networks has "purchased an equity stake" in the NWSL, which it will use to "broadcast weekly matches on Lifetime," according to Sam McDowell of the K.C. STAR. The companies also unveiled "plans to launch NWSL Media, which will oversee live streaming of all matches." The three-year TV agreement with Lifetime will "put games on the station" every Saturday at 4:00pm ET, the "top broadcast arrangement in the league's history." NWSL Media will "serve as the commercial branch for the league, overseeing its broadcast and sponsorship rights." It will also "administer a new website and phone app" (KANSASCITY.com, 2/2). VARIETY's Oriana Schwindt notes Lifetime as part of the deal will become an official sponsor of the NWSL and an official broadcast partner. Lifetime will be "featured on all official jerseys with a patch on the right sleeve." Meanwhile, NWSL Media is "currently negotiating live streaming deals." Schwindt writes the deal is the latest to "bring some sports-related diversity to Lifetime." Last April, the net "signed a three-movie pact" with Ronda Rousey (VARIETY.com, 2/2). In Philadelphia, Jonathan Tannenwald notes Univision will air seven of its MLS games during the 4:00pm ET time slot this year, while ESPN will "air three MLS games during that window in other weeks." That "means the NWSL and MLS will go head-to-head at least 10 times this year." That will be "more fuel for those fans who question whether having Lifetime as the NWSL's main outlet will attract soccer fans who'd be more likely to watch games on traditional sports channels" (PHILLY.com, 2/2).
