Gray Media announced a multi‑year broadcast agreement that makes its Portland station KPDX (FOX 12 Plus) the exclusive local home for the Portland Fire and the Portland Thorns. All Fire games will air on KPDX, with select contests simulcast on KPTV (FOX 12). The deal extends the Thorns’ existing local coverage by expanding match clearance and adding new studio programming that will feature pre‑game analysis, post‑game interviews, and fan‑generated content.
Under the agreement, Gray Media and the teams will launch a direct‑to‑consumer streaming platform built with Kiswe. The platform will provide live game streams, original programming, and interactive fan experiences such as real‑time statistics, social media integration, and virtual reality features.
The partnership fits into Gray Media’s broader strategy of expanding its sports rights portfolio. The company has recently secured rights to the Phoenix Suns and Mercury, the Atlanta Braves, and the Mountain West Conference, and it is positioning itself as a leading broadcaster of women’s professional sports. Portland’s reputation as a hub for women’s athletics—bolstered by the upcoming opening of the Kaiser Permanente Performance Center—adds further value to the deal.
The Portland Fire will begin play in May 2026, and the Thorns have maintained a local broadcast presence since 2021. By securing rights to both teams, Gray Media is creating new audience segments, diversifying its revenue streams, and strengthening its foothold in a market that is experiencing rapid growth in viewership and sponsorship interest.
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, but the multi‑year nature of the deal signals a long‑term commitment to women’s sports and positions Gray Media to capture both advertising and subscription revenue from a dedicated fan base.
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