ESPN Finds Lane for League of Legends
League of Legends is coming to ESPN, courtesy of a new deal that will see the network partner with Riot Games to serve as the official U.S. linear and authenticated streaming platform for the 2020 League of Legends Championship Series (LCS) Spring Split Playoffs. Matches will air live on ESPN2 or the ESPN app, with all matches available on demand in the ESPN app immediately following competition.
“We’re excited to work with Riot Games to create innovative content opportunities around this amazing franchise system,” said John Lasker, vice president of digital programming at ESPN. “Showcasing one of the most popular esports in the world with the LCS’ Spring Split playoffs allows ESPN to serve new audiences.”
The LCS Spring Split playoffs kicked off on April 3 and 4 with the top six teams and comprise of three rounds before culminating in a grand final on April 19 where a new champion will be crowned and go on to represent North America at the 2020 Mid-Season Invitational in July against teams from around the world.
“Now more than ever, coming together to watch and enjoy elite competitive gaming has the power to unite us as a community”, said Chris Greeley, LCS Commissioner, Riot Games. “We’re thrilled to bring the very best of the LCS to new audiences and existing fans through this partnership and look forward to some high-skill games on the Rift as we crown a new Spring champion.”
With 100 Thieves/TSM showcased today on the ESPN App, ESPN2 jump in the mix on April 11 at 4p with Evil Geniuses/Cloud 9, and subsequent matches on April 12, April 18 and April 19.
