Kroenke Sports and Entertainment is overhauling its Nuggets broadcast team. Play-by-play voice Chris Marlowe, color analyst Scott Hastings, and reporter Chris Dempsey are all out, according to several reports.
What We Know: Marlowe spent 22 years calling Nuggets games after Altitude launched in 2004. He was named Colorado Sportscaster of the Year in 2023. Hastings joined Denver broadcasts in 1993 following an 11-year NBA playing career, including two final seasons with the Nuggets. Dempsey, a Boulder native and former Denver Post reporter, also served as a studio analyst for the network.
What They Said: KSE Media Ventures president Steve Smith (via The Denver Post): ““For more than a decade, Chris Marlowe, Scott Hastings and Chris Dempsey have been synonymous with Nuggets basketball, bringing energy, insight and a genuine love of the game to every broadcast. They have been part of many of the most memorable moments in franchise history, including the 2023 championship run, and have helped shape how generations of fans experience Nuggets basketball. Each has been an outstanding ambassador for our organization, leaving a lasting impact on our company, our fans, and the broader Nuggets community.”
Chris Marlowe (via X): “Hey Nuggets Nation! All good things must come to an end… I wanted to let you know personally that I will not be returning as the play-by-play announcer for the Denver Nuggets next season. Altitude Sports is moving in a different direction and decided not to renew my contract. It has been a wonderful 22 year run. I want to thank everyone who was there along the way, especially the fans. I’m not retiring and this is not goodbye— it’s just so long for now.”
What Remains Unclear: No replacements have been announced yet. Additionally, it’s unknown whether any of the talents released will land elsewhere in sports media.
What It Means: This is a significant reset for a broadcast team that covered Denver’s recent 2023 championship. However, Katy Winge and Vic Lombardi are staying, providing some continuity. Hastings will also continue co-hosting on Altitude Radio. Still, fans should expect a noticeably different look and sound next season.
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Fox News contributor and radio host Clay Travis brought a pointed argument to Capitol Hill today. He told lawmakers the NFL is violating the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961 by placing games behind streaming paywalls.
What We Know: The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust convened Wednesday to examine how the Sports Broadcasting Act has impacted the broadcast market for sports leagues. Specifically, the hearing focused on whether the antitrust exemption created by the SBA has been used by professional sports leagues to harm consumers and whether legislative remedies may be needed. The House Judiciary Committee also released a report this week. It claimed the NFL’s television rights structure and revenues is a house of cards built on an overstretched antitrust exemption. Notably, Commissioner Roger Goodell declined to appear, leaving Travis as the hearing’s most prominent witness.
What They Said: Clay Travis on the misnomer of the NFL’s 87% games on OTA television statement: “The NFL is going to argue that 87% of their games are still free. That still means that they’re violating the law with 13% of the games that they are putting behind streamers. It also means that the reality is, if you look at your individual constituents, none of them are getting 87%. Buffalo Bills, great new stadium opening, $850 million in taxpayer funds. Their very first home game is on a Thursday on Amazon. Most of the taxpayers in the state of New York who paid for that stadium are not able to watch for free a Buffalo Bills home opener. That’s wrong. You guys have an important responsibility and an opportunity to apply the law fairly, freely, and help fans everywhere across the entire nation pay less and get more.”
What Remains Unclear: Courts have previously ruled the SBA exemption does not apply to cable, satellite, or streaming. However, whether Congress will act to formally strip or restrict the NFL’s antitrust exemption remains an open question. FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez noted that any meaningful update to the Sports Broadcasting Act requires legislative action, not agency intervention.
What It Means: The NFL’s growing reliance on streaming is now firmly in Congress’s crosshairs. Travis’s Buffalo Bills example gave lawmakers a tangible, constituent-level illustration of the problem. If Congress agrees the 13% figure represents a legal violation of the SBA, the NFL’s entire media rights structure could face its biggest challenge in many years.
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The 2026 NBA Finals continues to be a television phenomenon. Through three games, ABC and ESPN are posting numbers the sport hasn’t seen in decades.
What We Know: Game 3 averaged 23.8 million viewers on ABC and ESPN, a 159% jump from last year’s Game 3. The audience peaked at 26.3 million viewers at 11:15 p.m. ET. That made it the largest TV audience since Super Bowl LX in February. Through three games, the series is averaging 19.1 million viewers — up 114% from last year — making it ABC and ESPN’s second most-watched NBA Finals ever.
What The Numbers Show: (all data courtesy of ESPN PR. Viewership data via Nielsen Big Data + Panel)
Game #
Average Viewership
Peak Viewership
% Change Year-Over-Year
1
16.93 million
19.63 million
+90%
2
16.43 million
19.42 million
+88%
3
23.8 million
26.3 million
+159%
What Remains Unclear: Can the viewership trend continue at this record setting pace. Also, could ESPN consider additional opportunities for viewing with additional alt casts to drive up the number more.
What It Means: There’s many factors driving these viewership numbers. The addition of Big Data + Panel cannot be ignored. A team from the top market in the country is involved. Also, one of the most popular young superstars also is playing in the NBA Finals. The matchup was a dream in the making for the NBA. The results continue to prove that dream is reality. The longer this series can go will prove to be one of the more watched NBA Finals since the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls era.
Record-setting audience of 23.8M tuned in for the '26 #NBAFinals Game 3 on ABC & ESPN 👏
🏀 Largest NBA Finals Game 3 audience since '98 🏀 Most-watched NBA Finals Game 3 EVER on ABC & ESPN 🏀 Up 159% from last year's Game 3 🏀 26.3M peak viewers
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CBS News has seen plenty of tumult in recent months. But that instability hasn’t altered the division’s revenue, according to new figures.
What We Know: A report from Variety’s Brian Steinberg quotes Guideline, an advertising tracking firm, which projects that the network has seen no real revenue damage since new Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss was installed last year. The figures between its major programs show a healthy revenue figure.
What the Numbers Show: Between 60 Minutes, CBS Evening News, CBS Sunday Morning, CBS Mornings, 48 Hours, and Face the Nation, the network earned $362 million in 2025.
What They Said: “CBS has held steady, having stayed at 22% share of dollars for the last five years. Halfway through this year, CBS is still at 22% of the dollar share.” -Guideline Chief Insights and Analytics Officer
What It Means: Through all the consternation and negative publicity the network has received in 2026, to see that it has virtually remained unchanged in the revenue category showcases the power of the brand. It is unclear how much political advertising has played a role in keeping that figure steady compared to the prior five years, however.
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NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt testified Wednesday before the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust. His message was direct: Congress should enforce the existing Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961, not expand it.
What We Know: The hearing, titled “Examining the Sports Broadcasting Act,” explored how sports distribution has shifted since the SBA passed 65 years ago. LeGeyt says the law’s antitrust exemption was always intended to cover broadcast television negotiations — not streaming deals. Critically, no league representatives appeared to testify. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was invited but declined. Leaving broadcasters as the dominant voice before the subcommittee.
NAB President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt calling on Congress to enforce the language of the current Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961: “Live sports on free broadcast television has served the American public for generations. Together, we have built shared national moments, strengthened communities, expanded fan bases and supported local journalism. But that model is now at risk. Fans are paying more and receiving less. Meanwhile, local stations are competing against global technology platforms that can subsidize sports rights with revenue from entirely different businesses. In 1961, Congress was right to put fans first, and NAB is not asking to eliminate the Sports Broadcasting Act. But this Committee should reaffirm that the SBA applies only to league-wide negotiations with media companies. Ones that will distribute games through broadcast television, not lock games behind streaming paywalls.”
Curtis LeGeyt says the NAB’s position is not to scrutinize how the NFL does business: “The committee needs to reaffirm the scope of this act which was enacted by Congress. We’re not here to scrutinize the NFL’s business practices. We’re here to affirm that if they want to take advantage of an antitrust exemption granted to them by this body. There are certain public interest obligations that went along with that. There’s a clearly defined scope [to live up to the spirit of the law]. I believe that this committee is uniquely positioned to deliver that message. I believe that the law needs to be properly enforced.”
Curtis LeGeyt on how the NFL could be violating the anti-trust exemption they’ve been given: “As the NFL is now looking ahead to maybe a more global marketplace, they are clearly diversifying their the options that they’re going to use to reach other consumers. I would just affirm for this committee that they’re making that business determination. But this antitrust exemption, which was granted to them. It enables them to pool rights in a way that would clearly be a violation of our antitrust laws, but for Congress’s action was intended only to govern those negotiations with broadcasters. The benefit to fans was that free access. The balance is off if suddenly that act is going to be misused. In order to enable negotiations with Amazon, Netflix, or YouTube.”
Curtis LeGeyt believes streaming platforms don’t have constraints that broadcast networks do: “By expanding the pool of media entities negotiating for these rights, the sports leagues are creating a broadened marketplace. We know that these global streamers, who have a number of other businesses as well, don’t have the same financial constraints when it comes to bidding for sports rights. So, that’s driving up the price for everyone.”
What Remains Unclear: Whether the subcommittee will act on LeGeyt’s recommendations remains uncertain. Furthermore, with no league representation present, Congress heard only the broadcast perspective Wednesday. Congress is also examining whether the NFL stretched the SBA’s antitrust exemption beyond its original purpose, to the detriment of American consumers.
What It Means: The hearing reinforces that the NAB is mounting a focused, strategic campaign. Not seeking repeal, but demanding enforcement. If Congress reaffirms the SBA’s original scope, leagues could potentially lose antitrust protection for streaming-only rights deals. For fans, the implications are significant. More games may return to free, over-the-air television — or the pressure on Washington grows considerably louder.
The SBA does not clearly protect cable, satellite, streaming, or subscription products. In addition, the rising costs of which have drawn consumer complaints and government scrutiny. Currently, the DOJ, FCC, and Congress all examining the league’s broadcast practices simultaneously. The stakes of this fight extend well beyond just this hearing.
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Curtis Media’s Variety Hits WBBB 96.1 BBB in Raleigh has a new afternoon voice. Christy Brittain is joining the station, coming from afternoons at Kat Country 100.7 KATJ in Victorville, California.
What We Know: Brittain brings deep experience to the Triangle market. A Tennessee native, she spent thirteen years in middays at Country 95.1 K-Frog KFRG Riverside CA as ‘Christy McLeap.’ She also held a role at WTQR Winston-Salem before heading west. Notably, she previously worked as a paraeducator supporting autistic preschoolers. She steps into afternoons, succeeding Program Director Sammy Simpson in that slot.
What They Said: Brittain made clear that her passion for the medium runs deep. “I was 17 years old when the radio bug hit me and I still love doing it,” she said. “Radio has always been about companionship and community, and I look forward to spending afternoons with the incredible people of the Triangle.” Simpson added that her experience, authenticity, and passion for connecting with listeners make her a perfect fit.
What Remains Unclear: Her official start date has not yet been announced. Additionally, it’s unclear whether Simpson will transition into a different on-air role or focus solely on programming duties going forward.
What It Means: This move makes a statement about what 96.1 BBB values in its talent. Brittain’s North Carolina roots give her an instant connection to Triangle listeners. Her time at WTQR means she already understands the market’s culture and expectations. Meanwhile, her listener-first approach aligns well with what great afternoon radio demands.
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iHeartMedia Country 99.1 WQIK Jacksonville is expanding its morning lineup. Chad “Chumley” Kerch joins John Scott, Megan Terry, and Scot “Froggy” Langley on the newly renamed “The Big Show! With Chumley, John, Megan & Froggy.”
What We Know: Chumley brings deep Jacksonville roots and serious iHeart tenure to the role. He has been with the company since 1998. And retains his position as Program Director and afternoon host at sister Rock station 107.3 Planet Radio WPLA-FM. He is also heard afternoons on Rock 101.1 WJRR Orlando and across multiple iHeartMedia Classic Rock stations nationally.
What They Said: Chumley called the opportunity a privilege. “WQIK has been the soundtrack of North Florida for generations,” he said. “John, Megan, and Froggy are legends for a reason, and I’m honored to add my voice to a team Jacksonville already loves.” PD Casey Carter praised the fit, calling Chumley a Jacksonville expert and “an overall great human being.” SVP/Programming Rick Everett added that Chumley brings fresh energy sure to deepen listener connection each morning.
What Remains Unclear: No official start date has been announced. It is also unclear how his expanded morning duties will affect his afternoon commitments at WJRR Orlando and other affiliated stations.
What It Means: WQIK is strengthening an already popular morning show with a proven local voice. Rather than replacing talent, the station is building on existing chemistry. That approach signals confidence — both in the show’s foundation and in Chumley’s ability to add without disrupting. For Jacksonville listeners, the morning routine just got a little more familiar.
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The NFL declined an invitation to testify at Wednesday’s Congressional subcommittee hearing on the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961. NFL Executive Vice President Jeff Miller shares the league’s reasoning for the decline framing the hearing was slanted and unbalanced from a witness standpoint.
What We Know: Today, the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust convened a hearing titled “Examining the Sports Broadcasting Act.” The hearing examines the SBA’s effect on the modern broadcast market for major sports leagues. Specifically how professional sports distribution has evolved since the law’s passage 65 years ago. Witnesses testifying include OutKick Founder Clay Travis, and Tailgators Pub and Grill founder Jim Hallers. Also National Association of Broadcasters CEO Curtis LeGeyt, and Anna Gomez, Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission. Yet, no league representatives were present for the hearing. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was invited to testify. However, he declined participation last week.
What They Said: NFL Executive Vice President of communications, public affairs and policy Jeff Miller on why the NFL declined to testify at a Congressional hearing on the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961 (via CBS 58 Milwaukee):
“This panel, led by Congressman [Scott] Fitzgerald, who’s right there in Wisconsin, has witnesses solely on one side of the issue. There is no effort. We’ve offered many witnesses, and there’s no effort to have a balanced group.
We’ve talked to the committee numerous times about our policies. They, as represented in the report that they issued yesterday [Monday], have a totally slanted and biased view of the Sports Broadcasting Act. Many of the issues raised in there are not even relevant to the antitrust exemption that’s covered. So, we know where the committee is coming from on this. I don’t know why a subcommittee chairman who represents the people of Wisconsin would be interested in doing arm to the Sports Broadcasting Act. But that’s where we are.”
What Remains Unclear: According to the New York Times, NFL General Counsel Ted Ullyot previously told House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan that Commissioner Roger Goodell would not appear “due to ongoing litigation related to the topic of the hearing.” Still, it remains unclear whether the league’s absence strengthens or weakens its position as lawmakers consider legislative changes. Congress is also examining whether the NFL stretched the SBA’s antitrust exemption beyond its original purpose, to the detriment of American consumers.
What It Means: The NFL’s no-show signals a deliberate strategy. Instead of engaging a subcommittee it views as one-sided, the league opted to make its case publicly. Instead of through sworn testimony. The SBA does not clearly protect cable, satellite, streaming, or subscription products. In addition, the rising costs of which have drawn consumer complaints and government scrutiny. Currently, the DOJ, FCC, and Congress all examining the league’s broadcast practices simultaneously. The stakes of this fight extend well beyond just this hearing.
NEW: A House subcommittee is holding a hearing today on the Sports Broadcasting Act in the wake of more games moving to streaming.
NFL EVP Jeff Miller says Roger Goodell won't be there bc Chair @RepFitzgerald "has witnesses solely on one side of the issue. There is no effort." pic.twitter.com/Evw5gYiUZ0
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The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) is mourning one of its own. Former executive George Hyde has died.
What We Know: George Hyde served as the Executive Vice President of Training and Conferences during his time with the RAB. After originally joining in 1989, he exited the organization in 2009.
What They Said: “A broadcaster’s broadcaster, George served as Executive Vice President of RAB for many years, helping shape our organization through his leadership, sales training expertise and the development of the signature RAB Sales & Management Conference. The smile in this photo is exactly how we will always remember him — warm and genuine. His contributions to RAB and the radio industry will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.” – an RAB statement following Hyde’s death
What Remains Unclear: No cause of death has been announced.
What It Means: George Hyde was widely respected within the industry. Many viewed Hyde as a class act and the embodiment of the best of radio. He will be sorely missed.
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Former MLB executive David Samson says Pat McAfee will sign ESPN’s reported $60 million extension. In addition, he also warns that more money means less independence.
What We Know: ESPN is reportedly in talks to extend McAfee’s contract, with the deal around $60 million a year. McAfee hasn’t publicly floated the idea of going independent or exploring other options, and remains very loyal to ESPN. Meanwhile, his recent State of Sports special drew modest numbers. The two-hour primetime special averaged just 278,000 viewers.
David Samson believes the more money Pat McAfee takes from ESPN means the more beholden he will be to the business of the company: “The deeper the relationship with the parent company financially and in years, the more beholden you are to that company. Pat McAfee can sit and claim all he wants, and he will when he signs the extension. That he is an independent trailblazer that he can drop F-bombs and wear shorts and sleeveless shirts. But the more money that his company gets, the more they will have to toe the line. That is not an indictment of Pat [McAfee]. It’s not an indictment of Disney. It’s the reality of the relationship that exists between the people who pay and the people who get paid.”
David Samson believes the low viewership that McAfee’s “State Of Sports” special on ESPN didn’t help McAfee: “Word came out yesterday that only 278,000 people watched that two hour show that started at 8pm Eastern. Think about that. That means that the Pat McAfee show, it turns out on regular ESPN, is not exactly the juggernaut that people would assume.”
David Samson believes Pat McAfee won’t turn down ESPN’s reported offer: “This is a deal that will make sense for McAfee, no matter how much he says that he may want to go independent. That he’s going to look around, maybe at gambling companies, different networks. Maybe he’ll have his own network. It will be impossible for him to turn down the guaranteed money that will come from Disney.”
What Remains Unclear: No official timeline exists for when an extension between ESPN and McAfee could be finalized. It also remains unknown whether McAfee has received competing offers from companies or other networks. Additionally, the specific contract terms beyond the reported $60 million figure remain unconfirmed by ESPN.
What It Means: Samson’s experience in business provides a unique perspective. If ESPN were to invest more in McAfee, it will be interesting to analyze how his program could change to fit the ESPN viewing experience. In addition, it would be hard to imagine that ESPN would just continue letting McAfee do his program as is for such an increased price tag. Reports of McAfee’s first deal with ESPN are $15 million a year for five years. To reportedly quadruple that figure would have to come with some understanding on both sides of the agreement.
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