NBC Sports Group’s Premier League Announcers and 2013 Broadcast Plans

April 17, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nbc-sportsARLO WHITE NAMED LEAD PLAY-BY-PLAY VOICE WORKING WITH LEE DIXON AND GRAEME LE SAUX; WILL CALL GAMES FROM THE U.K.

LEGENDARY GARY LINEKER TO SERVE AS SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR TO PREMIER LEAGUE TELECASTS

FORMER JAMAICAN NATIONAL TEAM PLAYER ROBBIE EARLE AND FORMER ENGLISH FOOTBALLER ROBBIE MUSTOE TO SERVE AS STUDIO ANALYSTS WITH HOST REBECCA LOWE

 

NEW YORK – April 16, 2013 – NBC Sports Group has announced on-air talent for its coverage of Barclays Premier League soccer, starting in August.

  • Arlo White will serve as the lead play-by-play voice for NBC Sports Group’s Barclays Premier League coverage beginning in August, calling games on-site from the U.K.;
  • Former Premier League stars Lee Dixon and Graeme Le Saux will join White, on-site in the U.K. as analysts on NBC Sports Group’s Premier League coverage;
  • Legendary U.K. footballer and presenter Gary Lineker will serve as a special contributor to NBC Sports Group’s Premier League coverage, and occasionally host on-site studio coverage in the U.K.;
  • Former Jamaican National Team player Robbie Earle and former English footballer Robbie Mustoe will serve as studio analysts, alongside studio host Rebecca Lowe from NBC Sports Group’s Premier League studio in Stamford, Conn.

ARLO WHITE – PLAY-BY-PLAY: White, who spent the last two seasons as the play-by-play voice for NBC Sports Group’s MLS coverage, and was NBC’s voice of soccer for the 2012 London Olympics, will relocate back to the U.K. to call Premier League matches on-site for NBC.

Prior to joining NBC, White was the play-by-play voice of the Seattle Sounders FC of MLS on television and radio. He previously spent nine years with BBC Radio Sport in England where he was part of the BBC Radio 5-Live announcing team for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. White also served as a host on BBC Radio 5 Live and hosted the station’s flagship Premier League Football show, Saturday 5 Live Sport, as well as the Monday Night Club alongside BBC football commentator John Motson. From 2002 to 2005, White was part of the 5 Live Breakfast program on the BBC, where he covered, among other events, the 2003 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, the 2004 Athens Olympic Games and various Champions League football matches.

LEE DIXON – GAME ANALYST: Dixon will work alongside White on Premier League matches on NBC. A right back, Dixon was an English international earning 22 caps. He started his career with Burnley in 1982, playing for Chester City, Bury and Stoke City before joining Arsenal in January, 1988. He played for Arsenal for the rest of his career, retiring in 2002. He was part of four League Championships, three FA Cup wins, a European Cup-Winners’ Cup and a league cup. Dixon, who has worked as a color commentator for BBC, will continue his work for ITV.

GRAEME LE SAUX – GAME ANALYST: Le Saux will split time in the booth with Dixon working with White on NBC Sports Network’s Premier League matches. A left back and midfielder, Le Saux played 36 times for England, including the 1998 World Cup. He started his career with Chelsea in 1987, and also played with Blackburn Rovers and Southampton before retiring in 2005. He won the FA Cup in 2000 and also won a League Cup and European Cup-Winners’ Cup. Le Saux has worked for BBC as an analyst on Match of the Day 2, and as a color commentator.

GARY LINEKER – SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR/ON-SITE HOST: – Lineker will serve as a special contributor for NBC Sports Group’s Premier League coverage. He will also host some on-site coverage throughout the season. Lineker a forward, played 80 times for England, scoring 48 times, second most all-time for the Three Lions. He won the 1986 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot as top scorer with six goals and added four more in 1990. Lineker started his career with Leicester City in 1978 and played there until 1985, when he moved to Everton FC. He moved abroad with FC Barcelona a year later and after success in Spain, he moved to Tottenham Hotspur in 1989. He finished his career in Japan with Nagoya Grampus Eight in 1994. Lineker, one of the most respected presenters in the U.K, will continue to host Match of the Day, BBC’s flagship show.

REBECCA LOWE – STUDIO HOST: As previously announced, Lowe will relocate to the U.S. this summer, and will host Premier League coverage from NBC Sports Group’s new state-of-the-art International Broadcast Center in Stamford, Conn. Lowe joined ESPN UK in 2009 to co-host its Premier League matches as well as its FA Cup coverage, and co-anchor Between the Lines, a football debate and opinion program. Lowe co-hosted ESPN’s coverage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2011, in Germany, and its Euro 2012 coverage from Bristol, Conn. In May, 2012, Lowe became the first woman in UK history to host the FA Cup Final – a six-hour live broadcast from Wembley Stadium. Lowe will conclude her Premier League and FA Cup duties with ESPN UK in May.

ROBBIE EARLE – STUDIO ANALYST: Earle will work alongside Lowe and Robbie Mustoe as an analyst in NBC Sports Group’s Premier League studio in Stamford, Conn. A midfielder, Earle played 33 times for Jamaica, scoring eight times, including Jamaica’s first ever goal in a World Cup. English-born, Earle qualified to play for Jamaica thanks to his heritage. Earle started his career with Port Vale in 1981, before moving to Wimbledon in 1991. He played 10 seasons with Wimbledon before he retired. Earle has worked as a color commentator for NBC Sports Group’s MLS coverage and as an analyst for BBC, ITV, Sky, the Portland Timbers and ESPN.

ROBBIE MUSTOE – STUDIO ANALYST: Mustoe will join Earle and Lowe in the Premier League studio in Stamford, Conn. Mustoe, a midfielder, started his career with Oxford United in 1987. He moved to Middlesbrough in 1990 and played there for 12 seasons, before ending his career with Charlton Athletic and Sheffield Wednesday. He played in two FA Cup finals and one league cup final. Mustoe has worked with ESPN since 2008, working as color commentator on matches and as a studio analyst on ESPN Soccer Press Pass.

–NBC SPORTS GROUP–

NBC SPORTS GROUP’S 2013-14 PREMIER LEAGUE PROGRAMMING PLANS

Live Multi-Platform Coverage of All 380 Matches

Matches to Air Live on NBC, NBC Sports Network, Telemundo, Mun2, Premier League Extra Time, NBC Sports Live Extra and Other NBCUniversal Channels

All 10 Matches on Championship Sunday – May 11, 2014 – Available Live on an NBCUniversal Television Channel

More than 600 Hours of Original and Weekly Studio Programming on NBC Sports Network

New York – April 16, 2013 – All 380 games of the 2013-14 Barclays Premier League season will be presented live on NBC Sports Group’s television and digital properties as well as other NBCUniversal channels. NBC Sports Group’s schedule, which begins on Saturday, August 17, includes live matches on NBC, NBC Sports Network, Telemundo, Mun2, the Premier League Extra Time package of overflow television channels, the NBC Sports Live Extra website and app, and other NBCUniversal channels including CNBC and USA.

As previously announced in October 2012, NBCUniversal, via the NBC Sports Group, acquired the exclusive U.S. media rights to the Premier League through a multi-year agreement that begins with the 2013-14 season. Per the agreement, NBCUniversal becomes the exclusive English- and Spanish-language media rights holder to all 380 Barclays Premier League matches across all media platforms and devices in the United States.

Details of the 2013-2014 NBC Sports Group Premier League programming include:

  • All 380 matches presented live on television with studio pre- and post-game coverage;
  • All 380 matches streamed live via NBC Sports Live Extra;
  • Games not aired on a designated NBCUniversal channel will be made available to distributors via Premier League Extra Time, a package of overflow television channels available at no extra cost for each of their customers who receives NBC Sports Network;
  • Championship Sunday – May 11, 2014, when all 10 Premier League matches will be available live on a different NBCUniversal channel;
  • 76 Spanish-language telecasts, 10 on Telemundo, 66 on Mun2;
  • More than 600 hours of Premier League original programming.

NBC SPORTS LIVE EXTRA: Every Barclays Premier League match will be streamed live via NBC Sports Live Extra, the NBC Sports Group’s live streaming product for desktop, mobile and tablets and, in most cases, on the digital platforms of participating cable, satellite, telco and other video subscription services. The vast majority of Barclays Premier League matches will be streamed via “TV Everywhere,” available on an authenticated basis to subscribers of these services.

NBC Sports Live Extra provides a primary and second screen experience across mobile, tablet and desktop, delivering high quality video, match/player stats and video highlights while aggregating Premier League content from social media.

PREMIER LEAGUE EXTRA TIME: All games not aired on a designated NBCUniversal channel will be made available to distributors on Premier League Extra Time, a package of overflow television channels available at no extra cost for each of their customers who receives NBC Sports Network.

CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY: The biggest day on the Premier League schedule is the last day of the season when all 20 teams play at the same time. NBCUniversal will present each match of Championship Sunday live across a host of NBCU channels, including NBC, NBCSN, CNBC, USA, MSNBC, E! and more.

STUDIO AND ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING: NBC Sports Network will present more than 600 hours each year of studio and original programming surrounding Premier League. Shows include:

  • Premier League Countdown – A preview of the 2013-14 Barclays Premier League season;
  • Premier League Download – With the help of a number of high-profile celebrity supporters, comedians and journalists, Premier League Download will explore what it is that’s so intensely loved – and loathed – about England’s topflight league. Long-time supporters will enjoy the lively commentary, while new fans will learn the language of the only league that matters;
  • Premier League 36 – NBC Sports Network’s acclaimed 36 series that follows athletes for the 36 hours leading up to a game/match/race comes to the Premier League;
  • Premier League Goal Zone – A 30-minute program airing after the matches on Sunday with highlights of all the goals scored on Saturday and Sunday;
  • Game Cut-Downs – On Monday nights, NBCSN will present a two-hour show featuring cut-down versions of the Manchester United and Manchester City matches. On Tuesdays, a two-hour program will feature the Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Tottenham matches;
  • Match of the Day – A two-hour show featuring extended highlights with the natural calls of every game on Saturday. This show is modeled after the highly-regarded BBC show of the same name. Match of the Day will re-air on Sunday mornings;
  • Match of the Day 2 – A 90-minute show featuring extended highlights with the natural calls of every game on Sunday. This show is modeled after the BBC show of the same name;
  • Match of the Week – On Sunday nights, NBCSN will re-air the best match of the weekend in its entirety;
  • Barclays Premier League World – A weekly magazine show produced by Premier League;
  • Barclays Premier League Preview – A weekly show produced by Premier League that previews the upcoming week’s matches;
  • Barclays Premier League Review – A weekly show produced by Premier League that recaps all the matches from the past week.
GAMES BY PLATFORM (Subject to Change)
NBC 20
NBCSN 154
Premier League Extra Time 184
Telemundo/Mun2 76
Other NBCU Channels 22
NBC Sports Live Extra 380

TYPICAL WEEKLY PROGRAMMING GRID (All games live; All times ET)

Saturday Sunday Monday/Midweek
7 a.m. – NBCSN 8 a.m. – NBCSN 2:30 p.m. – NBCSN
10 a.m. – NBCSN 11 a.m. – NBCSN/Telemundo
12:30 p.m. – NBC

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com (http://nbcsportsgrouppressbox.com)

–NBC SPORTS GROUP–

Filed Under: NBC, Soccer

More Than 11 Hours Of Formula One™ Chinese Grand Prix Coverage On NBC Sports Network This Weekend

April 12, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nbc-sports-networkChinese Grand Prix – Live Sunday at 2:30 a.m. ET; Encore at 1 p.m. ET

Qualifying Coverage – Saturday at 2 a.m. ET

F1 36 Featuring Sebastian Vettel Premieres at 12 a.m. ET on Saturday

NEW YORK – April 10, 2013 – NBC Sports Network presents more than 11 hours of Formula One™ coverage this weekend highlighted by the Chinese Grand Prix live on Sunday, April 14 at 2:30 a.m. ET from Shanghai with an encore presentation at 1 p.m. ET. The race will be preceded by F1 qualifying live on Saturday at 2 a.m. ET, practice on Friday at 2 a.m. ET with an encore on Saturday at 12:30 a.m. ET, and the premiere of F1 36 featuring defending Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel on Saturday at 12 a.m. ET. F1 Extra, NBC Sports Network’s post-race show, will air live after the Chinese Grand Prix at 5 a.m. ET.

NBC Sports Network’s Formula One Coverage This Weekend (subject to change):

Date Coverage Time (ET)
Fri., April 12 Practice 2 a.m.
Sat., April 13 F1 36: Sebastian Vettel 12 a.m.
Sat., April 13 Practice Encore 12:30 a.m.
Sat., April 13 Qualifying 2 a.m.
Sun., April 14 Chinese Grand Prix 2:30 a.m.
Sun., April 14 F1 Extra 5 a.m.
Sun., April 14 Chinese Grand Prix Encore 1 p.m.
Sun., April 14 F1 Extra 3:30 p.m.
Sun., April 14 F1 36 Encore 4 p.m.


F1 COMMENTATORS: Leigh Diffey will serve as lead announcer for this week’s Formula One race. Sharing the booth with Diffey will be former racecar driver David Hobbs and analyst Steve Matchett, a former race mechanic for the Benneton F1 team. Will Buxton, F1 insider and former journalist, will serve as the team’s on-site reporter from Shanghai.

F1 36 PREMIERE: Three-time defending Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel will be the first driver profiled in the first-ever episode of F1 36, airing Saturday, April 13 at 12 a.m. ET. Encore presentations of F1 36 will air on Sunday, April 14 at 4 p.m. ET.

F1 36 is the latest in the NBC Sports Group’s original behind-the-scenes 36 series, which gives viewers an all-access pass into the life of world-class athletes. For each episode, cameras will follow a F1 driver for 36 hours, providing a behind-the-scenes look at their on- and off-track activities. The all-access 36 series, which is produced by IMS Productions, also includes NHL 36, Fight Night 36, IndyCar 36 and MLS 36.

F1 EXTRA: NBC Sports Network’s post-race show, F1 Extra, will air live after the Chinese Grand Prix with an encore on Sunday, April 14 at 3:30 p.m. ET. The 30-minute wrap-up show will be handled by the F1 team of Diffey, Hobbs, Matchett and Buxton.

MOTORSPORTSTALK: MotorSportsTalk (@MotorSportsTalk) on NBCSports.com brings racing fans up-to-the-minute news, video and information on Formula One™, IZOD IndyCar Series, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and all other motorsports racing from around the world. The site also serves as the destination for all news, analysis and video from NBC and NBC Sports Network productions of IndyCar and F1, including contributions from on-air commentators.

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com.

–NBC SPORTS GROUP—

Filed Under: Formula One, NBC Sports Network

Boston Bruins Travel To New Jersey To Take On Devils On NBC Sports Network’s “Wednesday Night Rivalry” At 7:30 P.M. ET

April 10, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nhl_nbc_2NBC and NBC Sports Network Deliver Seven NHL Games Over Five Days

Blackhawks-Blues, Sunday at 12:30 p.m. ET on NBC

Red Wings-Predators, Sunday Night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network

NHL Live, Sunday Night-Wednesday Night

NHL Overtime, Monday-Thursday at 11:30 p.m. ET

NEW YORK – April 9, 2013 — Zdeno Chara and the Boston Bruins (54pts) travel to the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. to take on Bryce Salvador and the Devils (40pts) tomorrow on NBC Sports Network’s Wednesday Night Rivalry at 7:30 p.m. ET. The Bruins, who are in second place in the Northeast Division, have won four out of their last five games, and have beat the Devils in their last two meetings this season. The Devils, in fourth place in the Atlantic Division, are trying to break out of a recent losing streak and need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Emmy Award-winning play-by-play commentator Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick, analyst Eddie Olczyk and ‘Inside-the-Glass’ analyst Pierre McGuire will call the game.

Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET with NHL Live, NBC Sports Group’s NHL pregame show. Liam McHugh hosts NHL Live from Studio 2 at NBC Sports Group’s International Broadcast Center in Stamford, Conn., and will be joined by analysts and former NHL players Mike Milbury and Keith Jones.

DOC EMRICK ON BRUINS-DEVILS:
“This is desperation vs. comfort. Although no team wants to be viewed as ‘comfortable’ in this sport, and the Bruins are still in a war with the Canadiens and Penguins for the top spot in the Eastern Conference…Boston’s season will continue past April 27. No such assurance for the Devils. Everyone in a horns-and-tail jersey knows ‘we have to score’. The Devils will need to overcome offensive insecurity against one of the best defensive teams in the sport. Not easy, but nothing worthwhile is.”

PIERRE MCGUIRRE ON BRUINS-DEVILS:
“The Bruins and Devils are two teams that have a history of playing hard-fought games against each other. Wednesday night should be full of energy, passion, and extra effort. The biggest factor in the game might be the absence of Patrice Bergeron due to an injury, but the Bruins are still a strong squad. The team that wins the last battle should win the game. It should be that tight of a game.”

In addition to NBC Sports Network’s Wednesday Night Rivalry matchup between the Bruins and Devils, NBC and NBC Sports Network will also deliver coverage of seven other games over five days, beginning Thursday night: Pittsburgh Penguins-Tampa Bay Lightning at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; Philadelphia Flyers-Buffalo Sabres, Saturday at 3 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; Chicago Blackhawks-St. Louis Blues, Sunday at 12:30 p.m. ET on NBC; Detroit Red Wings–Nashville Predators, Sunday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; Dallas Stars-Chicago Blackhawks, Monday night at 8 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; New York Rangers-Philadelphia Flyers, Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; and Los Angeles Kings-San Jose Sharks, Tuesday at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network.

PENGUINS-LIGHTNING THURSDAY NIGHT
On Thursday, April 11, NBC Sports Network features a matchup between the Pittsburgh Penguins (58pts) and the Tampa Bay Lightning (34pts) at 7:30 p.m. ET. Kenny Albert (play-by-play) and Pierre McGuire (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game from the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa Bay, Fla.

FLYERS-SABRES SATURDAY
In bonus coverage on Saturday, April 13, the Philadelphia Flyers (37pts) travel to the First Niagara Center in Buffalo, NY. to take on the Sabres (38pts). Jim Jackson (play-by-play), Keith Jones (analyst) Steve Coates (reporter) will call the game at 3 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network.

BLACKHAWKS-BLUES SUNDAY
NHL on NBC coverage will continue on Sunday, April 14, at 12:30 p.m. ET with an exciting Western Division matchup between the Chicago Blackhawks (62pts) and St. Louis Blues (44pts). The league-leading Chicago Blackhawks, who started the season with a record-breaking 22-game point streak and now currently hold the top spot in the NHL standings, will visit the Saint Louis Blues, who are in second place in the Western Division. Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick (play-by-play), Eddie Olczyk (analyst) and Pierre McGuire (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the action from the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

RED WINGS-PREDATORS SUNDAY NIGHT
Sunday Night on NBC Sports Network, the Detroit Red Wings (43pts) will travel to Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn. to take on the Predators (38pts) at 7:30 p.m. ET. Dave Strader (play-by-play) and Brian Engblom (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game.

STARS-BLACKHAWKS MONDAY NIGHT
On Monday, April 15, the Dallas Stars (39pts) travel to the United Center in Chicago to take on the league-leading Blackhawks at 8 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. Kenny Albert (play-by-play) and Joe Micheletti (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the action.

RANGERS-FLYERS TUESDAY NIGHT
Tuesday, April 16, the Philadelphia Flyers host the New York Rangers (42pts) at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network in a critical game for both teams. Dave Strader (play-by-play) and McGuire (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game.

KINGS-SHARKS TUESDAY NIGHT
In bonus coverage on Tuesday night, the San Jose Sharks (47pts) will host the defending Stanley Cup Champion Los Angeles Kings (48pts) at 10 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. Randy Hahn (play-by-play), Drew Remenda (analyst) and Brodie Brazil (reporter) will call the game from HP Pavillion in San Jose, Calif.

NHL LIVE and NHL OVERTIME

NHL studio programming throughout the 2013 season will originate from NBC Sports Group’s new, state-of-the-art International Broadcast Center located in Stamford, Conn. NHL Live, NBC Sports Network’s pregame show, will air prior to every game, usually beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

NHL Overtime airs most weeknights at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. NHL Overtime is hosted by Bill Patrick and former NHL C Jeremy Roenick. NHL Overtime examines all NHL games played each night and features news, highlights, and analysis.

NBC Sports Network’s Upcoming Hockey Schedule (all times ET, subject to change):

DATE GAME TIME (ET) NETWORK
Wed., April 10 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., April 10 Boston at New Jersey 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., April 10 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN
Thurs., April 11 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Thurs., April 11 Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Thurs., April 11 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN
Sat., April 13 Philadelphia at Buffalo 3:00 p.m. NBCSN
Sun., April 14 Chicago at St. Louis 12:30 p.m. NBC
Sun., April 14 NHL Live 7 p.m. NBCSN
Sun., April 14 Detroit at Nashville 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Mon., April 15 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Mon., April 15 Dallas at Chicago 8 p.m. NBCSN
Mon., April 15 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 16 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 16 New York at Philadelphia 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 16 Los Angeles at San Jose 10:30 p.m. NBCSN

NHL VIEWERSHIP:
Through ten games, NHL coverage on NBC has drawn 1.6 million average viewers, up 23% from 2012 (1.3 million, excluding Winter Classic). Through 42 games, NBC Sports Network has drawn 419,000 average viewers, up 26% from the full regular-season average in 2012.

NHLonNBC ON TWITTER
Follow @NHLonNBCSports on Twitter for the most up to date news, scores, photos and videos around NBC and NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the National Hockey League. For all games on NBC and NBCSN use #NHLonNBC to follow the conversation around the broadcast. A special #RivalryNight is used for all Wednesday Night Rivalry Matchups on NBCSN.

NHLonNBC ON FACEBOOK
Facebook.com/NHLonNBCSports – The NHL on NBC Sports Facebook page provides news, photos and video from NBC and NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the NHL. The page aggregates all NHL on NBC-related content found within the NBC Sports digital network, including NBCSports.com, NHL Live Streaming, and ProHockeyTalk.com

NHLonNBC ON INSTAGRAM
Follow @NHLonNBCSports on Instagram for photos around NBC and NBCSN coverage of the National Hockey League.

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com

–NBC SPORTS GROUP–

Filed Under: NBC, NHL

Seven Hours Of Honda Indy Grand Prix Of Alabama Coverage On NBC Sports Network This Weekend

April 4, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nbc-sports-networkHonda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama – Sunday at 3 p.m. ET

Qualifying Coverage – Saturday at 5 p.m. ET

Firestone Indy Lights – Sunday at 2 p.m. ET

NEW YORK – April 3, 2013 – NBC Sports Network presents seven hours of the 2013 IZOD IndyCar Series coverage this weekend highlighted by the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama on Sunday, April 7 at 3 p.m. ET from Barber, Ala. The race will be preceded by IndyCar qualifying on Saturday at 5 p.m. ET and Firestone Indy Lights at Barber Motorsports Park on Sunday at 2 p.m. ET. An encore of the race will air on Monday, April 8 at 1 a.m. ET.

St. Petersburg Grand Prix winner and 2011 Rookie of the Year James Hinchcliffe aims to extend his stay on top of the podium this weekend against 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series champion and Andretti Autosport teammate Ryan Hunter-Reay. However, two-time Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama champion Will Power looks to claim his third consecutive career win at Barber.

COMMENTATORS: NBC Sports Network’s IndyCar booth is helmed by lead voice Leigh Diffey. He will be joined by race analyst and former NASCAR driver Wally Dallenbach, Jr. and IndyCar driver Townsend Bell.

Jon Beekhuis will report from pit road. Veterans Kevin Lee and Marty Snider will manage the pit, and will be joined by Robin Miller, the network’s IndyCar reporter.

DATE COVERAGE TIME (ET)
Sat., April 6 IndyCar: Barber Qualifying 5:00 p.m.
Sun., April 7 Indy Lights: Barber Motorsports Park 2:00 p.m.
Sun., April 7 Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama 3:00 p.m.
Mon., April 8 Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama Encore 1:00 a.m.


FIRESTONE INDY LIGHTS: NBC Sports Network will air a total of 12 one-hour telecasts of Firestone Indy Lights continuing with the 2.38-mile circuit at Barber Motorsports Park in Barber, Ala., on Sunday, April 7 at 2 p.m. ET.

Firestone Indy Lights is the premier ladder series for drivers and teams striving to compete in the IZOD IndyCar Series and the Indianapolis 500. Primarily run in conjunction with the IZOD IndyCar Series, the Firestone Indy Lights schedule features races on road courses/street circuits and ovals, including the famed 2.5-mile Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

MOTORSPORTSTALK: MotorSportsTalk (@MotorSportsTalk) on NBCSports.com brings racing fans up-to-the-minute news, video and information on the IZOD IndyCar Series, Formula One, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, and all other motorsports racing from around the world. The site also serves as the destination for all news, analysis and video from NBC and NBC Sports Network productions of IndyCar and F1, including contributions from on-air commentators.

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com.

– NBC Sports Group –

Filed Under: IndyCar, NBC Sports Network

NBC Sports Network Showcases Penguins and Rangers Tonight From Madison Square Garden

April 3, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nhl_nbc_2Penguins-Rangers on NBC Sports Network’s “Wednesday Night Rivalry” at 7:30 p.m. ET

NHL Live Begins at 6:30 p.m. ET

Coverage continues Wednesday night, from Madison Square Garden, with Penguins-Rangers on NBC Sports Network’s Wednesday Night Rivalry. Emmy Award-winning play-by-play commentator Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick, analyst Eddie Olczyk, and ‘Inside-the-Glass’ analyst Pierre McGuire will call the game.Coverage begins on both nights at 6:30 p.m. ET with NHL Live, NBC Sports Group’s NHL pregame show. Liam McHugh hosts NHL Live from Studio 2 at NBC Sports Group’s International Broadcast Center in Stamford, Conn., and will be joined by analysts Mike Milbury and Keith Jones.

EDDIE OLCZYK ON PENGUINS-RANGERS: “What better place than Madison Square Garden for these two teams to meet at this time. There’s so much buzz surrounding both teams, although not for the same reasons. The Penguins are obviously the team to beat in the East.”

KEITH JONES ON PENGUINS-RANGERS: “When you look at the Pittsburgh Penguins, there are virtually no holes in this team. The Rangers are offensively challenged and need to put some wins together to keep their playoff hopes alive. It sets up as an interesting Wednesday Night Rivalry matchup.”

DOC EMRICK, EDDIE OLCZYK AND PIERRE MCGUIRE PREVIEW PENGUINS-RANGERS:

http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2013/03/31/video-nbc-previews-pens-rangers-wednesday-rivalry-night-game/

Beginning Wednesday night, NBC and NBC Sports Network will deliver five other games over three nights: Minnesota Wild-San Jose Sharks at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; Calgary Flames–San Jose Sharks, Friday at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; St. Louis Blues-Detroit Red Wings, Sunday at 12:30 p.m. ET on NBC; New Jersey Devils–Buffalo Sabres, Sunday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; and Chicago Blackhawks–Minnesota Wild, Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network.

WILD-SHARKS WEDNESDAY NIGHT

In the late game on Wednesday night, the San Jose Sharks (42pts) host the Minnesota Wild (44pts) at HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif. The Wild are in a close race with the Canucks for the top spot in the Northwest Division and every game counts. Randy Hahn (play-by-play), Drew Remenda (analyst) and Brodie Brazil (reporter) will call the game at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network.

FLAMES-SHARKS FRIDAY NIGHT

In bonus coverage Friday night at 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network, the Calgary Flames (30pts) travel to the Shark Tank in San Jose, Calif. to take on the teal and black in a battle between the Northwest and Pacific Divisions. Hahn, Remenda, and Brazil will once again be on the call.

BLUES-RED WINGS SUNDAY

NHL on NBC coverage will continue on Sunday, April 7 at 12:30 p.m. ET with a Central Division matchup between the Detroit Red Wings (41pts), who are currently in second place in the division, and the St. Louis Blues (38pts). The Blues have won two of the three previous meetings between the two teams, and are just three points behind the Red Wings in the Central Division standings. Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick (play-by-play), Eddie Olczyk (analyst) and Pierre McGuire (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the action from Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Mich.

DEVILS–SABRES SUNDAY NIGHT

Sunday night on NBC Sports Network, the New Jersey Devils (39pts) will travel to the First Niagara Center in Buffalo, NY., to take on the Buffalo Sabres (32pts) at 7:30 p.m. ET. Dave Strader (play-by-play) and Brian Engblom (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game.

BLACKHAWKS-WILD TUESDAY NIGHT

Tuesday, April 9, the Minnesota Wild will host the Chicago Blackhawks (57pts) at 8 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. Both teams currently lead their respective divisions. Strader (play-by-play) and Engblom (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game from Xcel Energy Center in Minneapolis, Minn.

NHL LIVE and NHL OVERTIME

NHL studio programming throughout the 2013 season will originate from NBC Sports Group’s new, state-of-the-art International Broadcast Center located in Stamford, Conn. NHL Live, NBC Sports Network’s pregame show, will air prior to every game, usually beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

NHL Overtime airs most weeknights at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. NHL Overtime is hosted by Bill Patrick and former NHL C Jeremy Roenick. NHL Overtime examines all NHL games played each night and features news, highlights, and analysis.

NBC Sports Network’s Upcoming Hockey Schedule (all times ET, subject to change):

DATE GAME TIME (ET) NETWORK
Tues., April. 2 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April. 2 Buffalo at Pittsburgh 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April. 2 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., April. 3 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., April 3 Pittsburgh at New York 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., April 3 Minnesota at San Jose 10:30 p.m. NBCSN
Fri., April 5 Calgary at San Jose 10:30 p.m. NBCSN
Sun., April 7 St. Louis at Detroit 12:30 p.m. NBC
Sun., April 7 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Sun., April 7 New Jersey at Buffalo 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 9 NHL Live 7 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 9 Chicago at Minnesota 8 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April. 9 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN

NHL VIEWERSHIP:

Through nine games, NHL coverage on NBC has drawn 1.7 million average viewers, up 31% from 2012 (1.3 million, excluding Winter Classic). Through 38 games, NBC Sports Network has drawn 428,000 average viewers, up 29% from the full regular-season average in 2012.

NHLonNBC ON TWITTER

Follow @NHLonNBCSports on Twitter for the most up to date news, scores, photos and videos around NBC and NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the National Hockey League. For all games on NBC and NBCSN use #NHLonNBC to follow the conversation around the broadcast. A special #RivalryNight is used for all Wednesday Night Rivalry Matchups on NBCSN.

NHLonNBC ON FACEBOOK

Facebook.com/NHLonNBCSports – The NHL on NBC Sports Facebook page provides news, photos and video from NBC and NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the NHL. The page aggregates all NHL on NBC-related content found within the NBC Sports digital network, including NBCSports.com, NHL Live Streaming, and ProHockeyTalk.com

NHLonNBC ON INSTAGRAM

Follow @NHLonNBCSports on Instagram for photos around NBC and NBCSN coverage of the National Hockey League.

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com

–NBC SPORTS GROUP–

Filed Under: NBC Sports Network, NHL

NBC Sports Radio Launches Live 24/7 Today

April 1, 2013 By Leave a Comment

NBC-Sports-Radio– Network Debuts a Revamped Website–

– Introduces the NBC Sports Radio Mobile App –

NEW YORK, NY– April 1, 2013 – NBC Sports Radio goes live today with full, 24/7 sports-talk programming to entertain, inform and engage sports fans nationwide. In addition to a starting lineup of 257 affiliated stations, the network introduces a newly designed, revamped website at NBCSportsRadio.com and a customized NBC Sports Radio mobile app for Android and Apple devices.

NBCSportsRadio.com features a fresh, modern look with a number of new features — such as programming schedules, talent bios and photos, and a terrestrial radio station finder — plus added capabilities, including live streaming, station streaming and social media streaming.

The NBC Sports Radio mobile app, created by Abacast, showcases a branded home page with rotating sponsorship panels and an integration system that syncs audio ads and rotating display ads–a feature that will help advertisers extend their brands. Among its many features, the mobile app also delivers programming content, Facebook and Twitter promotion, and a station information page linking to phone request lines.

Chris Corcoran, Executive Vice President, General Manager, NBC Sports Radio, said “Game on! We are pumped and ready to take the field. When you combine our unmatched talent with our stations, our digital assets and our social media presence, it all adds up to an amazing listening and interactive experience for sports fans everywhere.”

Rob Simmelkjaer, SVP, NBC Sports Ventures, says “We couldn’t be more excited to be launching our 24/7 format today. In just a short time, NBC Sports Radio has become a relevant player in the market, and we’re looking forward to continuing our growth. Today we also launch new ways for listeners to hear our content, from our new online webpage to our mobile app. Audio content is now consumed in more ways than ever, and we’re pleased to provide multiple touch points for listeners.”

The complete lineup of NBC Sports Radio programming is as follows:

WEEKDAYS

- The Erik Kuselias Show, 6-9am ET

- The Brian Kenny Show, 9am-12noon ET

- Voices of the Game with Newy Scruggs, 12noon-3pm ET

  • Monday, TBD
  • Tuesday, Chipper Jones
  • Wednesday, Chris Mannix
  • Thursday, Bobby Valentine
  • Friday, Stan Van Gundy

- Under Center with McNabb & Malone, 3-7pm ET

- The Jon Stashower Show, 7-10pm ET

- Amani and Eytan, 10pm-1am ET

- The Dan Schwartzman Show, 1-6am ET

SATURDAYS

- The Safety Blitz with Rodney Harrison, 7-9am ET

- The Clay Travis Show, 9am-12noon ET

- The Anita Marks Show, 12noon-3pm ET

- The Brian Webber Show, 3pm-6pm ET

- TBA, 6-9pm ET

- The Jason Page Show, 9pm-1am ET

 

SUNDAYS

- The Rob Buska Show, 1am-5am ET

- The Jim Daniels Show, 5-8am ET

- Speaking of Sports with Rob Simmelkjaer, 8-9am ET

- TBA, 9am-12noon ET

- The Anita Marks Show, 12noon-3pm ET

- The Brian Webber Show, 3-6pm ET

- The Chris Mannix Show, 6-9pm ET

- The Jason Page Show, 9pm-1am ET

For more information on programming, please contact Dial Global at [email protected].

About NBC Sports Radio

NBC Sports Radio is a joint venture between NBC Sports Group and Dial Global. It provides sports talk programming to radio stations nationwide and is distributed by Dial Global. Content includes hourly sports news updates, daily features and long-form shows. On social media, join the NBC Sports Radio community on Twitter at twitter.com/nbcsportsradio. To listen live or to find a station, visit www.nbcsportsradio.com.

About Dial Global

Dial Global is the largest independent national audio media company in the U.S., delivering compelling, engaging, and fully-integrated audio content to over 8,500+ radio stations and digital media companies. Dial Global’s powerful portfolio of iconic media, sports and entertainment brands, combined with some of the most recognized live events in the world, provide strong and unique brand engagement to over 225 million consumers each week. For more information, visit www.dialglobal.com.

Filed Under: NBC Sports Radio

Montreal Canadiens And Boston Bruins Renew Classic Rivalry As They Battle For The Top Spot In Northeast On NBC Sports Network’s “Wednesday Night Rivalry” At 7:30 P.M. ET

March 27, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nhl_nbc_2Blackhawks, Red Wings, Penguins, Bruins and Canadiens featured in Five Games over Four Days and Nights

NHL Live, Sunday Night-Wednesday Night

NHL Overtime, Monday-Friday at 11:30 p.m. ET

NEW YORK – March 26, 2013 — In one of sports’ classic rivalries, Brian Gionta and the Montreal Canadiens (45pts) travel to TD Garden in Boston, Mass. to take on Zdeno Chara and the Boston Bruins (45pts) in a head-to-head battle for the top spot in the Northeast Division, on NBC Sports Network’s Wednesday Night Rivalry at 7:30 p.m. ET. Emmy Award-winning play-by-play commentator Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick, analyst Eddie Olczyk, and ‘Inside-the-Glass’ analyst Pierre McGuire will call the game.

Coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET with NHL Live, NBC Sports Group’s NHL pregame show. Liam McHugh hosts NHL Live from Studio 2 at NBC Sports Group’s International Broadcast Center in Stamford, Conn., and will be joined by analysts Mike Milbury and Keith Jones.

PIERRE MCGUIRE ON CANADIENS-BRUINS: “The Bruins will try to get physical against the quick and skilled Canadiens. Emotion usually plays a big role in this rivalry. Because of the intensity they bring to the arena, the fans for both teams help make this one of the best rivalries in all of sports. Even though the players change year to year, Montreal and Boston is always must-see TV.”

JEREMY ROENICK ON CANADIENS-BRUINS: “Montreal and Boston have emerged as the two best teams in the Northeast, but many are wondering if the Canadiens can remain in the top spot. There is never any love lost between these two teams, and the rivalry has become even more heated this season because of the physical nature of the Canadiens and Bruins previous meetings in 2013.”

In addition to NBC Sports Network’s Wednesday Night Rivalry matchup between the Canadiens and Bruins, NBC and NBC Sports Network will also deliver coverage of four other games over three days and nights, beginning Sunday: Chicago Blackhawks-Detroit Red Wings, Sunday at 12:30 p.m. ET on NBC; Boston Bruins–Buffalo Sabres, Sunday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; Colorado Avalanche–Detroit Red Wings, Monday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network; and Buffalo Sabres–Pittsburgh Penguins, Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network.

BLACKHAWKS-RED WINGS SUNDAY

NHL on NBC coverage will continue on Sunday, March 31 at 12:30 p.m. ET with a classic Central Division matchup between the league-leading Chicago Blackhawks (51pts), who started the season with a record-breaking 22-game point streak, and the Detroit Red Wings (39pts) who are currently in second place in the division. The Blackhawks and Red Wings have split their two previous meetings this season, with both games ending in 2-1 final scores. Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick (play-by-play), Eddie Olczyk (analyst) and Pierre McGuire (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the action from Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Mich.

BRUINS–SABRES SUNDAY NIGHT

Sunday night on NBC Sports Network, the Boston Bruins (45pts) will travel to the First Niagara Center in Buffalo, NY., to take on the Buffalo Sabres (30pts) at 7:30 p.m. ET. The Bruins are tied with the Canadiens for the top spot in the Northeast and will look to capitalize against the Sabres, who are struggling to remain in the playoff race. Dave Strader (play-by-play) and Brian Engblom (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game.

AVALANCHE-RED WINGS MONDAY NIGHT

Monday, April 1, the Detroit Red Wings will host the Colorado Avalanche (26pts) at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. Emrick (play-by-play) and McGuire (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the game from Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Mich.

SABRES-PENGUINS TUESDAY NIGHT

On Tuesday, April 2, Sidney Crosby and the surging Pittsburgh Penguins (50pts) will take the ice against the Buffalo Sabres at 7:30 p.m. ET. on NBC Sports Network. The Penguins have won 12 consecutive games and are chasing the Blackhawks for the top spot in the league. If the Penguins continue their current win streak, the team will enter its game against Buffalo having won 15 straight games, tied for second most in the history of the NHL (‘82-83 New York Islanders). A win against the Sabres could put Pittsburgh one game shy of tying the record for most consecutive wins in the history of the league (‘92-93 Pittsburgh Penguins – 17 games). Strader (play-by-play) and Engblom (‘Inside-the-Glass’) will call the action from the Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pa.

NHL LIVE and NHL OVERTIME

NHL studio programming throughout the 2013 season will originate from NBC Sports Group’s new, state-of-the-art International Broadcast Center located in Stamford, Conn. NHL Live, NBC Sports Network’s pregame show, will air prior to every game, usually beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

NHL Overtime airs Monday-Friday nights at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network. NHL Overtime is hosted by Bill Patrick and former NHL C Jeremy Roenick. NHL Overtime examines all NHL games played each night and features news, highlights, and analysis.

NBC Sports Network’s Upcoming Hockey Schedule (all times ET, subject to change):

DATE GAME TIME (ET) NETWORK
Wed., Mar. 27 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., Mar. 27 Montreal at Boston 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Wed., Mar. 27 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN
Sun., Mar. 31 Chicago at Detroit 12:30 p.m. NBC
Sun., Mar. 31 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Sun., Mar. 31 Boston at Buffalo 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Mon., April 1 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Mon., April 1 Colorado at Detroit 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Mon., April 1 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 2 NHL Live 6:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 2 Buffalo at Pittsburgh 7:30 p.m. NBCSN
Tues., April 2 NHL Overtime 11:30 p.m. NBCSN

NHL VIEWERSHIP:

Through eight games, NHL coverage on NBC has drawn 1.7 million average viewers, up 31% from 2012 (1.3 million, excluding Winter Classic). Through 34 games, NBC Sports Network has drawn 433,000 average viewers, up 30% from the full regular-season average in 2012. (Confirming updated numbers with the Research Department.)

NHLonNBC ON TWITTER

Follow @NHLonNBCSports on Twitter for the most up to date news, scores, photos and videos around NBC and NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the National Hockey League. For all games on NBC and NBCSN use #NHLonNBC to follow the conversation around the broadcast. A special #RivalryNight is used for all Wednesday Night Rivalry Matchups on NBCSN.

NHLonNBC ON FACEBOOK

Facebook.com/NHLonNBCSports – The NHL on NBC Sports Facebook page provides news, photos and video from NBC and NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the NHL. The page aggregates all NHL on NBC-related content found within the NBC Sports digital network, including NBCSports.com, NHL Live Streaming, and ProHockeyTalk.com

NHLonNBC ON INSTAGRAM

Follow @NHLonNBCSports on Instagram for photos around NBC and NBCSN coverage of the National Hockey League.

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com

–NBC SPORTS G

Filed Under: NBC Sports Network, NHL

Indycar & Formula One™ Notes & Quotes – Sunday, March 24

March 25, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nbc-sports-networkIZOD INDYCAR – HONDA GRAND PRIX OF ST. PETERSBURG NOTES & QUOTES

NEW YORK, NY – March 24, 2013 – Leigh Diffey (play-by-play), Wally Dallenbach, Jr. (analyst) and Townsend Bell (analyst) hosted NBC Sports Network’s coverage of the inaugural race of the 2013 IZOD IndyCar season – the Honday Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Fla.). Jon Beekhuis, Kevin Lee, Brian Till and Robin Miller served as reporters.

Following are notes and quotes from this afternoon’s coverage:

PRE-RACE COVERAGE

Defending IndyCar season champion Ryan Hunter-Reay to Kevin Lee: “Last year was great, but right now, we’re not thinking about last year anymore. This is what it’s all about – the IndyCar season opener.”

Three-time series runner up and pole sitter Will Power: “Imagine if I’d won the championship the last three years. I’d have no motivation.”

Dallenbach: “If I’m Will Power, I going to want to have this championship wrapped up by the time I get to Houston.”

Bell on female driver Simona de Silvestro, who has a new engine and finished third in qualifying: “There’s this wave building of support for Simona…the ultimate compliment in this paddock, her fellow drivers absolutely tell me across the board, ‘she is super fast.’”

Dallenbach on more teams stepping up performance: “This is going to be the most competitive IndyCar season in 10 or 15 years.”

Bell on the track: “At St. Pete, it’s all about the start, critical to get a good start. It’s so tough to pass at this track.”

RACE COVERAGE

Team owner David Letterman on Graham and Bobby Rahal being on same team: “I think it’s delightful. I love Bobby. I love Graham. Graham’s a tremendous racer. Bobby was in a class by himself. I think it provides great energy.”

Dallenbach on Dario Franchitti’s crash after pitting: “These cars are treacherous on cold tires. They are a handful.”

Franchitti to Beekhuis on his crash: “We’ve really struggled with the car. I was just saying to Chip, you know, I have to make it up somewhere, and I just stepped over the line there. Cold tires, hit a bump…totally my mistake, just pushing too hard.”

Beehuis: “You would expect that they would start the season as strongly as anyone, but they’re struggling.”

Dallenbach on restarts: “This is such a tightrope walk for these guys…making the decision, this is my only chance to really make passes, make positions here, but I’ve got to think championship, I’ve got to finish the race. Hardest part about this deal, first lap on a restart.”

Diffey on Helio Castroneves, who has had success at St. Pete and who is the current leader: “Helio just seems to find another gear around this 1.8 mile track.”

Bell on Hunter-Reay: “If there’s one thing that Ryan proved last year, it’s that, in the face of adversity, he doesn’t lose his cool. Don’t count this guy out.”

Dallenbach: “You have so much respect for Roger Penske and what he’s done in motorsports. He’s incredible.”

JR Hildebrand on contact with Will Power: “It was totally my fault.”

Diffey on Marco Andretti, who was battling de Silvestro for third place in the final laps: “This is the Marco Andretti Andretti autosport fans have been waiting for for some time – fighting until the end, vying for podiums, in the mix.”

Diffey on James Hinchcliffe’s win: “The Mayor of Hinchtown is now an IndyCar series winner.”

***

FORMULA ONE™ – MALAYSIAN GRAND PRIX NOTES & QUOTES

STAMFORD, CT – March 24, 2013 – Bob Varsha (play-by-play) filled in for Leigh Diffey, who was on-site calling IndyCar’s St. Pete race, and was joined by David Hobbs (analyst), Steve Matchett (analyst) and Will Buxton (on-site reporter) for NBC Sports Network’s live coverage of the second race of the 2013 Formula One™ season – the Malaysian Grand Prix.

Following are notes and quotes from this morning’s coverage:

PRE-RACE COVERAGE

Hobbs on drivers not wearing cooling vests in the car despite the heat in Malaysia: “Formula One is so obsessed with weight that it’s very difficult to get a real cooling system that works.”

Matchett on course necessitating high speeds followed by steep braking: “This track has everything.”

RACE COVERAGE

Matchett before race on whether teams should use medium or dry tires based on unpredictable weather: “That’s the conundrum the teams face.”

Matchett after Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso did not pit after the first lap despite damage to the car: “My best guess here would be the FIA will make a decision and show Alonso that flag to return to the pits.” Note: Immediately after this comment, Alonso wrecked due to the damage.

Matchett: “You could see it coming, guys, and now look what’s happened. Alonso going to be pretty much out of this Grand Prix. He had the opportunity to come into the pits. It was there for him. They could have put him onto slick tires. He is out of the race. That is a terrible faux pas and a drop of strategy by Ferrari. Don’t understand it.”

Hobbs: “You’re right. That sort of strategic thinking is just absolutely crazy.”

Varsha on Ferrari’s decision: “A huge faux pas from the greatest name in worldwide motorsport.”

Buxton: “I don’t believe for one moment that was a Ferrari decision. I’m standing right here by their pit box. They were ready and waiting for him. I think Fernando decided to stay out.”

Matchett on slow Force India pit stop: “A disaster for the team.”

Hobbs: “What a shame.”

Varsha after Lewis Hamilton went to wrong pit block: “Second weekend of the season and everyone looking a little under-rehearsed at this point.” (laughter)

Hobbs revisiting Alonso: “An incredible lack of judgment for one of the finest drivers out there…For him to make a mistake like that, it’s very uncharacteristic.”

Matchett on Force India retiring both cars: “Clearly they saw a design or an engineering error that could have affected the safety of both cars. So, it’s a very good call by in terms of safety by Force India.”

Matchett on Red Bull drivers Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel vying for the lead: “It’s hard to believe they are on the same team.”

Hobbs: “Another great win for Vettel. Red Bull still looking like their top of the heap.”

–NBC SPORTS GROUP–

Filed Under: Formula One, IndyCar, NBC Sports Network

Live World Series Of Fighting Returns To NBC Sports Network This Saturday, March 23, At 9:30 P.M. ET

March 22, 2013 By Leave a Comment

nbc-sports-networkFirst Show of New Multi-Year Partnership Between NBC Sports Network and World Series of Fighting

Main Event Features Heavyweights Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski vs. Anthony “Rumble” Johnson

Co-Feature Bout Includes Bantamweights Two-Time National Muay Thai Champion Marlon Moraes and Tyson Nam

NEW YORK – March 21, 2013 – World Series of Fighting (WSOF) returns to NBC Sports Network this Saturday, March 23, at 9:30 p.m. ET, the first show of a new multi-year partnership to deliver live, World Championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) programming.

The main event features heavyweights Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski (19-9) of Minsk, Belarus, and Anthony “Rumble” Johnson (15-3) of Boca Raton, Fla., at the Ovation Hall at Revel in Atlantic City, N.J. Arlovski, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, comes off a five-fight winning streak as he faces Johnson in a heavyweight showdown.

In the co-feature bout, Tyson Nam (12-4) of Portland, Ore., takes on two-time national Muay Thai champion and Jiu-Jitsu brown belt Marlon Moraes (9-4) of Jupiter, Fla., via Friburgo, Brazil.

NBC Sports Network’s World Series of Fighting broadcast team of Todd Harris (play-by-play) and mixed martial artist Bas Rutten (analyst) will call the action. Tina Dixon will report from the cage.

About World Series of Fighting: NBC Sports Network and World Series of Fighting agreed to a three-year partnership in January 2013. The agreement includes at least six events per year on NBC Sports Network beginning this year.

For more information about NBC Sports Group shows and properties, including press releases, photos, talent and executive bios and headshots, please visit NBCSportsGroupPressBox.com

– NBC Sports Group –

Filed Under: MMA, NBC Sports Network

Brian Kenny Premieres New Show On NBC Sports Radio

March 22, 2013 By Leave a Comment

NBC-Sports-Radio– The Brian Kenny Show to Debut 9-12n ET on Monday, April 1st –

– NBC Sports Radio Rounds Out the Roster for 24/7 Launch –

NEW YORK, NY, March 21, 2013 – NBC Sports Radio announced today that Brian Kenny, MLB Network and Showtime host, and formerly of ESPN, will host The Brian Kenny Show in the 9am-12n ET Monday-Friday slot, as the network completes its roster and rolls out 24/7 sports talk programming on Monday, April 1st.

A respected interviewer, Kenny will go one-on-one with some of the biggest names in sports. Additionally known for his adept skill as a “numbers cruncher,” he will also go beyond the scores and delve into the data, breaking down the analytics of the games.

A 25-year national television and radio veteran, Kenny hosts the popular Clubhouse Confidential on MLB Network and covers boxing for Showtime. Kenny formerly hosted The Brian Kenny Show on ESPN Radio. He also anchored SportsCenter and Baseball Tonight, and called play-by-play for ESPN’s Wednesday Night Baseball and the World Baseball Classic. Kenny was named “Media Personality of the Year” by SI.com in 2004.

Brian Kenny says, “I’m thrilled to be joining the team at NBC Sports Radio and Dial Global and I am excited to be back on the airwaves. We look forward to building a show that fosters intelligent sports conversation with in-depth analysis. It’s going to be a blast.”

Chris Corcoran, Executive Vice President, General Manager, Dial Global, adds, “I’ve always enjoyed Brian’s unique perspective on sports and his incredible interview skills. He’s going to make listeners think outside the box and will deliver one of the most intelligent national sports talk shows to the scene.”

Rob Simmelkjaer, SVP, NBC Sports Ventures, said “Brian and I have worked together in the past and I know he is a consummate pro who truly loves radio. He will be a great listen, day in and day out.”


NBC Sports Radio is launching 24/7 talk programming on April 1, 2013, with a complete roster of refreshing sports talk, candid conversations and expert analysis from an array of respected media and sports professionals.

The complete NBC Sports Radio schedule is as follows:

Weekday (Monday-Friday) Lineup

6am-9am, ET The Erik Kuselias Show

9am-12n, ET The Brian Kenny Show

12n-3pm, ET Voices of the Game with Newy Scruggs

3pm-7pm, ET Under Center with McNabb & Malone

7pm-10pm, ET The Jon Stashower Show

10pm-1am, ET Amani & Eytan

1am-6am, ET The Dan Schwartzman Show

Saturday Lineup

7am-9am, ET Safety Blitz with Rodney Harrison

9am-12n, ET The Clay Travis Show

12n-3pm, ET The Anita Marks Show

3pm-6pm, ET The Brian Webber Show

6pm-9pm, ET TBA

9pm-1am, ET The Jason Page Show

Sunday Lineup

1am-5am, ET The Rob Buska Show

5am-8am, ET The Jim Daniels Show

8am-9am, ET Speaking of Sports with Rob Simmelkjaer

9am-12n, ET TBA

12n-3pm, ET The Anita Marks Show

3pm-6pm, ET The Brian Webber Show

6pm-9pm, ET The Chris Mannix Show

9pm-1am, ET The Jason Page Show

For more information on programming, please contact Dial Global at [email protected].

About NBC Sports Radio

NBC Sports Radio is a joint venture between NBC Sports Group and Dial Global. It provides sports talk programming to radio stations nationwide and distributed by Dial Global. Content includes hourly sports news updates, daily features and long-form shows. On social media, join the NBC Sports Radio community on Twitter at twitter.com/nbcsportsradio. To listen live or to find a station, visit www.nbcsportsradio.com.

About Dial Global

Dial Global is the largest independent national audio media company in the U.S., delivering compelling, engaging, and fully-integrated audio content to over 8,500+ radio stations and digital media companies. Dial Global’s powerful portfolio of iconic media, sports and entertainment brands, combined with some of the most recognized live events in the world, provide strong and unique brand engagement to over 225 million consumers each week. For more information, visit www.dialglobal.com.

Filed Under: NBC Sports Radio
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