ESPN Launches 'Women's Sports Sundays' to Replace 'Sunday Night Baseball'

The network will feature top WNBA and NWSL games in primetime starting this summer.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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ESPN is debuting a new programming block called 'Women's Sports Sundays' this summer, which will feature 12 primetime games from the WNBA and NWSL. The move comes as the network has seen increased viewership for women's sports broadcasts in recent years, including a 6% ratings boost for WNBA games last season and a 22% increase in viewers for the NWSL championship match. The new franchise is part of ESPN's effort to give women's sports a bigger platform and reflect the growing popularity and cultural impact of these leagues.

Why it matters

The launch of 'Women's Sports Sundays' represents a significant investment by ESPN in women's sports programming. As 'Sunday Night Baseball' departs the network after 36 years, this new franchise provides a high-profile destination for showcasing top women's professional leagues like the WNBA and NWSL, which have seen increased viewership and momentum in recent years.

The details

The 'Women's Sports Sundays' series will run for nine weeks and include 12 primetime games, along with a studio show and coverage across ESPN's digital and social media platforms. The decision to focus more on women's sports comes as ESPN has seen a 6% ratings increase for WNBA games and a 22% viewership boost for the NWSL championship match in recent seasons.

  • The 'Women's Sports Sundays' series will debut this summer.
  • ESPN will no longer air 'Sunday Night Baseball' after this year, ending a 36-year run.

The players

Rosalyn Durant

ESPN Executive Vice President, Programming & Acquisitions.

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What they’re saying

“Women's sports are experiencing continued momentum, and Women's Sports Sundays is ESPN's next step in meeting that demand. This franchise is about more than showcasing games — it's about building a consistent, high-profile destination that reflects the passion, excellence and cultural impact of women's sports today, while giving athletes and leagues the stage they deserve.”

— Rosalyn Durant, ESPN Executive Vice President, Programming & Acquisitions (ESPN)

What’s next

ESPN plans to announce more details about the 'Women's Sports Sundays' programming, including the specific match-ups and talent, at a later date.

The takeaway

ESPN's launch of 'Women's Sports Sundays' represents a significant commitment to elevating women's professional sports leagues like the WNBA and NWSL, which have seen growing viewership and cultural relevance in recent years. This new franchise provides a high-profile platform to showcase these athletes and leagues, meeting increasing fan demand for women's sports content.