Here’s Why UConn is No Longer With Entercom

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Entercom’s WITC was the long-time home for UCONN sports (since 1991) until the two sides parted ways on Friday when the News-Talker in Hartford announced it would not be renewing its contract to broadcast UCONN Sports once the agreement expires at the end of this basketball season. Here’s what Market Manager Phil Zachary said about the breakup.

Market Manager Phil Zachary told the Journal Inquirer, “The school felt the conservative programming that WTIC airs is at odds with the best interest of the university. WTIC has a successful programming recipe. We’re not going to change it just to have two hours of sports programming at night.”

Zachary added that WTIC will continue to place a high priority on local sports coverage and will sharpen its focus on the Boston Red Sox, New York Giants and New England Patriots, all of whose games are broadcast on the station. He said he has the highest respect for UCONN Athletic Director David Benedict and his goals for the university. “Having grown up in Connecticut, there’s a special place in my heart for UCONN Basketball. However, I couldn’t justify what they were seeking when compared to more successful partnerships Entercom enjoys with elite Power 5 institutions.”

2 COMMENTS

  1. The original story offers a passing reference to IMG’s representation of the University. While the market manager points the finger at UConn, as a manager who has had the misfortune of watching my once mutual relationship with a local university turn to nothing but a ongoing headache as a result of IMG’s highhanded pressure tactics (they want the world along with the galaxy), I would be interested in learning the back story as to what degree the UConn athletic director was influenced by IMG.

    In short, IMG takes money out of radio’s pocket and, equally, undermines the one-to-one relationship with our collective colleges and universities decision makers. The institution loses as does radio.

    Maybe my experience with IMG is unique. But somehow, I doubt it. I would hope that some of you reading the article and this post would offer a comment or to.

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