CBS Sports Network has netted a deal for coverage of the 2012 Major League Lacrosse season.
The deal, financial terms of which were not disclosed, encmpasses 14 live national contests for the eight-team circuit, as well as 18 episodes of 30-minute magazine show, Inside the MLL. The show, including behind-the-scenes video, provides fans with an inside look at the clubs, players, coaches and special guests, while providing analysis prior to each game.
MLL, comprising the Boston Cannons, Charlotte Hounds, Chesapeake Bayhawks, Denver Outlaws, Hamilton Nationals, Long Island Lizards, Ohio Machine and Rochester Rattlers, will face off its 12th season on April 28, with two more regular-season weeks than during the 2011 season. MLL concludes its campaign with a final four playoff format, followed by a championship game.
"We are thrilled to partner with the MLL, adding to our already robust lineup of lacrosse programming," said Ross Molloy, vice president, CBS Sports Network, in announcing the deal. "Lacrosse has long been a staple on our network and we look forward to showcasing the world's best lacrosse players while further increasing the national visibility of the sport."
Noted MLL commissioner David Gross: "We are extremely excited to add CBS Sports Network as a television partner. Having 14 live nationally telecast games on the network is a tremendous step forward for the growth of MLL and for lacrosse in general. Our hope is that through this agreement with CBS Sports Network, MLL will expose sports fans to not only the fastest growing sport in the country, but the fastest sport on two-feet. Additionally, our loyal fans have been campaigning for more nationally televised games and we're happy to announce that our partnership with CBS Sports Network will bring the total number of live, nationally televised games to 20 in 2012."
CBS Sports Network joins ESPN2 in providing national coverage for the league. As was the case last season, ESPN2 will air six live contests, with the All-Star game and the final, expected to be on the docket. MLL officials said the 2012 schedule had not been finalized.
Additionally, all games will be streamed live on ESPN3.com, except for the 14 contests on CBS Sports Network.
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