Minnesota Timberwolves fans in four additional television markets will receive 15 games free over the air through a Gray Media distribution agreement with TEGNA and DAZN announced October 7.
The package extends to Rochester, Duluth and Mankato, Minnesota, and La Crosse–Eau Claire, Wisconsin. TEGNA’s KARE 11 leads distribution in Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota.
In Minnesota’s three additional markets, games will primarily appear on the North Star Sports & Entertainment Network through KXLT 47.2 in Rochester, KBJR 6.3 in Duluth and KEYC 7.3 in Mankato. Wisconsin viewers will find the package on WECX 14.1. Selected games will also air on Gray’s primary network affiliates.
Free Television Alongside Paid Streaming
The first scheduled telecast is October 28 against Golden State at 7 p.m. Central. Channel assignments and the schedule remain subject to change.
The free package covers 15 games, not the full season. Gray says all Timberwolves games, except national blackouts, are available through DAZN.
The RNN Question
Can expanded free access produce sustainable revenue for local stations while supporting paid streaming? Advertising inventory, affiliate economics and audience information will help determine whether this distribution model benefits broadcasters as well as fans.