The Orlando Magic, a team in the NBA, has announced a partnership with Gray Media to broadcast 70 regular-season games in Gainesville, Panama City, and Tallahassee during the 2026-27 season. This partnership will provide Magic fans in these regions with a direct connection to the team all season long. The games will be broadcast over-the-air on WTGB 34.3 in Gainesville, WJHG 7.6 in Panama City, and WCTV 6.3 in Tallahassee, all affiliated with the 365BLK network. Additionally, select games will air on Gray’s ABC, NBC, CBS, and MyNetwork stations in these markets.
Charlie Freeman, Magic president of business operations, expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing the direct connection it provides to fans. Sandy Breland, the chief operating officer of Gray Media, also highlighted the value of the partnership, noting Gray's successful NBA partnerships and its commitment to building on this relationship with the Magic.
This announcement comes on the heels of the Magic's agreements with other broadcasting partners, including WMOR-TV in Tampa and Cox Media Group in Orlando. The team has also announced a direct-to-consumer streaming partner, which will be revealed in the near future. The Magic's schedule includes eight national TV contests, which will be broadcast on various networks such as NBCSN, ESPN, and Prime Video.
The partnership with Gray Media is a significant development for the Magic, as it expands their reach and provides fans in these regions with a more accessible way to follow the team. This move is part of the team's strategy to engage with fans across various platforms and markets, ensuring a strong connection with their audience.
In my opinion, this partnership is a strategic move by the Magic to strengthen their fan base in these regions. By providing free, over-the-air broadcasts, the team is making it easier for fans to follow their games, which can lead to increased engagement and loyalty. This approach aligns with the team's goal of building a strong connection with fans across different markets.
Furthermore, the inclusion of select games on Gray’s ABC, NBC, CBS, and MyNetwork stations further enhances the team's visibility and reach. This multi-platform approach is a testament to the Magic's commitment to providing fans with a diverse range of viewing options, ensuring that they can follow the team wherever they are.
In conclusion, the partnership with Gray Media is a significant step for the Orlando Magic, expanding their reach and providing fans with a more accessible way to follow the team. This move aligns with the team's strategy to engage with fans across various platforms and markets, ensuring a strong connection with their audience. As the season progresses, fans in Gainesville, Panama City, and Tallahassee can look forward to a more direct and engaging connection with the Magic.
