Athletes Unlimited has secured a multi-year deal with ESPN for pro softball and lacrosse. Under the agreement, at least 90 Athletes Unlimited events will be televised on linear networks over the two years, including 34 on ESPN or ESPN2 and 56 on ESPNU.
The third season of Athletes Unlimited Softball will run from July 29 to August 28, 2022 at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois. Additionally, Athletes Unlimited will host its inaugural competition from June 13, 2022 through June 25, 2022. ESPN will also broadcast the Athletes Unlimited Softball Draft on May 4, 2022 during the espnW Summit.
Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse is also set to return this summer. However, Athletes Unlimited has not announced dates or locations for this year’s run.
“We are proud to collaborate with ESPN to solidify Athletes Unlimited Softball and Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse as two of the major pro sports leagues in the U.S. This deal establishes our presence as a major force in the pro sports landscape in the U.S., while serving as yet another reminder of ESPN’s commitment to women’s sports,” John Patricof of Athletes Unlimited said in a press release.
“ESPN is excited to expand its relationship with Athletes Unlimited and be part of their innovative approach to women’s professional sports. We are looking forward to showcasing these world class softball and lacrosse athletes as part of our longstanding commitment to women’s sports,” ESPN President Burke Magnus added.
It's Official ?
You can catch every AU game this summer on the @espn platforms ?? pic.twitter.com/KSAC1GlQih
— Athletes Unlimited (@AUProSports) April 27, 2022
