Rumors of DraftKings bringing out its own free streaming channel have proven true with confirmation today that the DraftKings Network will air on Samsung TV Plus.
The development marks the first time a US sportsbook has launched a 24/7 free ad-supported TV service (FAST) on Samsung’s streaming TV and video on-demand platform.
DraftKings Network will deliver over 250 live channels, enabling bettors to get closer to the sporting action via a scrolling ticker at the bottom of the screen displaying up to the minute scores, odds and a QR code to direct them to specialized offers.
The network will be made available to owners of Samsung Smart TV Galaxy devices and Family Hub appliances, as well as to web users for free without any subscription or login required.
Takashi Nakano, Senior Director of Business Development and Content Acquisitions at Samsung Electronics, explained: “DraftKings brings a fresh and crisp look to modern day sports news and entertainment programming, which our collaboration will deliver to users across millions of devices in the US.
“Whether it’s a lean back experience on a Samsung Smart TV or a lean forward experience on a Samsung Galaxy device on-the-go, we are excited to work with leading operators like DraftKings to serve today’s sports fan.”
The DraftKings Network programming line-up will feature original shows anchored by The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz; national baseball voice, Jared Carrabis; Golic and Smetty with Mike Golic Sr. and Jessica Smetana; GoJo featuring Mike Golic Jr.; Ross Tucker’s Football podcast; and select VSiN programming like Follow the Money with Mitch Moss and Pauly Howard.
Furthermore, the network will debut two new Meadowlark Media produced shows. Ex-NFL player Andrew Hawkings will lead a weekly Journeyman show, a comedic take on life, sports and culture, while NBA analyst Amin El Hassan and sports personality Charlotte Wilder will feature in a new basketball centric program, aired every Tuesday-Friday.
“In bringing together some of the most authentic sports and entertainment voices under one umbrella, DraftKings Network is the destination for ‘In on the Action’ sports fans and content they love,” added Stacie McCollum, Vice President of Content at DraftKings.
“We look forward to reaching fans with our deep roster of independent, credible and relatable voices that resonate with sports fans and the sports betting community.”
It’s a move that should aid DraftKings in a bid to attain its first positive adjusted EBITDA year in FY2024, following several ‘surgical’ decisions taken in Q4 of 2022.
The run for profitability has already received encouragement this year with a strong performance in Q1, where the firm recorded revenue of $770m (up 84.5% YoY) and a net loss of $397m (down 15% YoY), helped by launches in Massachusetts and Ohio.
