Arizona Coyotes partners with Kiswe and Scripps Sports for D2C streaming

The Arizona Coyotes has unveiled a groundbreaking media rights deal, signaling a pivotal shift in how local sports are consumed. In partnership with Kiswe, a frontrunner in direct-to-consumer (D2C) streaming technology, and Scripps Sports, the Coyotes are set to launch Coyotes Central, a dynamic new platform designed to bring every locally broadcast game directly to fans across Arizona. Starting February 16, 2024, fans will have unparalleled access to live games, on-demand replays, and exclusive content, all at their fingertips.

Coyotes Central emerges as a beacon of innovation in the sports media landscape, offering monthly subscriptions at $11.99 and a special rate of $24.99 for the remainder of the 2023-24 season. While season subscription details for the 2024-25 season will be revealed later, this initiative marks a significant milestone in the Arizona Coyotes’ strategy to enhance fan engagement and accessibility.

Arizona Coyotes President & CEO, Xavier A. Gutierrez, expressed his enthusiasm about the launch, highlighting the platform’s role in the team’s media strategy. “We are excited to launch Coyotes Central, a new streaming platform that allows Arizona Coyotes fans to watch Coyotes games and original content at their convenience,” Gutierrez stated. “This innovative direct-to-consumer option is a key component to our overall media strategy, and this partnership with Scripps Sports and Kiswe will enable us to deliver a flexible viewing option in our local broadcast market to our fans and ‘fans in waiting’.”

Glenn Booth, CEO of Kiswe, also shared his excitement about the partnership, emphasizing the shift towards the ‘beam and stream’ model for local sports distribution. Booth’s remarks reflect a broader industry trend towards leveraging technology to meet evolving consumer preferences for sports content consumption.

The collaboration between the Arizona Coyotes, Kiswe, and Scripps Sports exemplifies the transformative potential of D2C streaming in broadening access to sports. By offering a flexible and immersive viewing experience, Coyotes Central aims to connect more fans with the excitement of live hockey, reinforcing the bond between the team and its supporters.

Brian Lawlor, President of Scripps Sports, underscored the initiative’s focus on accessibility. “Scripps Sports is focused on helping teams reach their fan bases, and this is another way in which Coyotes’ supporters can watch their team’s games,” Lawlor said. “The goal is accessibility. This partnership is all about extending the reach.”

As the Arizona Coyotes continue to innovate both on and off the ice, this deal not only enhances the fan experience but also sets a new standard for local sports broadcasting. With its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the Coyotes are pioneering a future where every fan has the opportunity to engage with their favorite team in new and exciting ways.

The Arizona Coyotes’ partnership with Kiswe and Scripps Sports represents a strategic move that aligns with the growing demand for more personalized and accessible sports content. This D2C streaming service is a testament to the evolving landscape of sports media, offering fans a more connected and engaging experience. As the industry continues to embrace digital transformation, initiatives like Coyotes Central could pave the way for how teams across various sports leverage technology to meet the changing needs of their audiences.