Gray Media Brings Ohio Valley Conference Basketball to Free Over-the-Air Television Viewers

Core Points - Gray Media has entered into an agreement with the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) to broadcast OVC basketball across 20 markets in five states [1] - The broadcast will be part of a multi-year contract with ESPN, allowing for national simulcasting on ESPN+ and availability through the ESPN app without digital blackouts [1] - Gray Media's Tennessee Valley Sports & Entertainment Network will specifically feature three Tennessee institutions, enhancing local engagement [2] Company Overview - Gray Media, Inc. is the largest owner of top-rated local television stations in the U.S., reaching approximately 37% of U.S. television households [9] - The company operates in 113 television markets, with 78 markets having the top-rated television station and 99 markets with the first or second highest-rated station [9] - Gray Media also owns Gray Digital Media, which provides advanced digital marketing strategies, and has various media properties including video production companies and studio facilities [9] Ohio Valley Conference Details - The OVC was founded in 1948 and is the eighth-oldest Division I athletic conference, known for its national championships in various sports [6] - The conference sponsors 19 championship sports and consists of 11 member institutions across six states [7] - OVC has a history of promoting sportsmanship and ethical conduct, having implemented a Sportsmanship Statement in 1995 [6]