U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has scheduled a full committee hearing for May 6, 2025, to address changes in how Americans watch live professional sports. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senator Cruz aims to examine the move from traditional broadcasts to the prominence of digital platforms, subscriptions, and exclusive streaming.
The hearing, titled “Field of Streams: The New Channel Guide for Sports Fans,” will feature testimony from representatives of Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), and the National Hockey League (NHL). These leagues will discuss their strategies for navigating the evolving sports broadcasting and programming environment. Although invited, the National Football League (NFL) has declined to participate.
Senator Cruz remarked on the accessibility of sports, stating, “Catching your favorite team on TV shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. Games that used to be free or easy to find are now scattered across pricey apps and exclusive deals. This hearing will explore how leagues intend to keep sports accessible and affordable for the fans who make it all possible.”
The list of witnesses confirmed to testify includes Kenny Gersh, Executive Vice President of Media and Business Development for MLB; William Koenig, President of Global Content and Media Distribution for the NBA; and David Proper, Senior Executive Vice President of Media and International Strategy for the NHL. Further witnesses may be announced later.
The hearing will take place at the Committee Hearing Room, Russell 253, starting at 10:00 AM EST. It will be livestreamed on the Committee’s website. Reporters who wish to attend are advised to contact their media galleries to RSVP.
