Pearson Broadcasting has reached an agreement with the Baker Family Trust to acquire 93.7 FM, a move that will significantly expand the reach of ESPN Arkansas. The company confirmed the deal in an April 10 release.
As part of the agreement, ESPN Arkansas will shift its programming to the 93.7 FM signal. Meanwhile, KISR — branded as Kisser 93 — will relocate to 93.1 FM while maintaining service to listeners across the River Valley.
The move gives ESPN Arkansas access to a 100,000-watt signal, dramatically increasing its coverage area. The station will now reach Fort Smith, Hot Springs, Northwest Arkansas, Harrison, Mountain Home and parts of eastern Oklahoma.
ESPN Arkansas General Manager Tommy Craft said the upgrade positions the brand for long-term growth.
“This is a true game-changer for us,” Craft said. “We’re excited to grow our footprint and bring our programming to more listeners across the state. Expanding our coverage means more fans can connect with our local shows and be part of the conversation.”
Craft added that sports remain a central part of daily life in Arkansas. He emphasized the importance of creating a platform where fans can engage with coverage of in-state teams and storylines. The deal also reflects a strategic shift for KISR, which will move to a slightly different position on the dial while sharpening its local focus.
Fred Baker, president of KISR, said the decision aligns with the station’s long-standing commitment to local programming. He noted that a previous tower relocation expanded signal reach but created new challenges.
“We’ve always believed in being live and local,” Baker said. “When your signal stretches across a wide region, it becomes harder to serve each community in a meaningful way.”
By transitioning frequencies, Baker said KISR can better tailor its content to its core audience while ESPN Arkansas takes advantage of the broader regional signal.
The transaction remains subject to FCC approval. Company officials expect the deal to close in early summer 2026.
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