It’s been another busy week in sports media. We’re here to recap the biggest news and events that took place and share some of our best work from the week that was. Without further adieu:
ESPN will reportedly undergo “significant” layoffs in the coming months – March 6th
ESPN will have to lay off a number of “recognizable staff” according to Sports Illustrated’s Richard Deitsch. The network is reportedly attempting to shed tens of millions in salary and will pursue buyouts, a rarity at ESPN.
Reports: Cardinals and Pirates will play ‘Sunday Night Baseball’ game in Williamsport – March 6th
The St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates will play in Williamsport, at the home of the Little League World Series. ESPN, who’s long covered the LLWS, will pick up the game and air it as a part of ‘Sunday Night Baseball.’
Wichita State head coach Gregg Marshall calls out CBS bracketologist Jerry Palm – March 6th
After CBS bracketologist Jerry Palm claimed #21st-ranked Wichita State faced a must-win scenario in the MVC title game, despite their 27-4 record, Shockers coach Gregg Marshall had some strong words regarding his comments.
Report: ESPN layoffs will be limited to on-air talent – March 7th
Following up Deitsch’s report, The Hartford Courant’s Dan Haar reports the cuts will exclusively focus on on-air and online talent. Employees behind the scenes aren’t expected to see any job loss.
CBS to cut NCAA Tournament Selection Show by a half-hour to 90 minutes – March 8th
After trying – and failing – to stretch the NCAA Tournament Selection Show to two hours in 2016, CBS and Turner will cut the show down by 30 minutes. CBS promised brackets will be revealed quicker.
CBS is going to use Luther Vandross’ ‘One Shining Moment’ in 2017 – March 9th
Turner Sports received backlash after using two different versions of David Barrett’s’ ‘One Shining Moment” (The iconic version from Luther Vandross and one from Ne-Yo) during the NCAA tournament last year. According to TMZ, in 2017, CBS will stick with the more popular Vandross version of the iconic song.
