Compass Media Networks will deliver full, exclusive national radio coverage of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, with play-by-play beginning Tuesday, March 10 at 4:45 p.m. ET and continuing through the championship matchup Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m. ET from the United Center in Chicago.
The six-day event stands as one of the most anticipated stretches on the college basketball calendar. Compass Media Networks executives believe the expanded tournament format will heighten that anticipation. They expect a more compelling lineup of games for affiliates nationwide. The added inventory should also deliver stronger engagement for listeners across the country.
With more programs entering the bracket, the stakes rise immediately. Compass Media Networks expects that urgency to drive tune-in. NCAA Tournament positioning will add further intrigue. Executives anticipate stronger interest from core fan bases. They also project increased sampling from casual listeners during championship week.
“We cannot wait for tip-off,” said Robert Blum, General Manager of Compass Media Networks/Sports. He noted that the tournament’s growth should translate into meaningful ratings opportunities for partner stations while delivering marquee matchups throughout the week.
“With the expansion of the Big Ten Tournament. The six days will be packed with extremely compelling games that will help power the ratings of our affiliates and dazzle our audience,” said Blum.
Compass has assembled a deep broadcast roster to anchor the coverage, blending veteran voices with high-profile basketball insight. Play-by-play duties will rotate among Gregg Daniels, Matt Smith, Jason Ross Jr., and Andy Masur. Analysis responsibilities will be shared by seven-time NBA champion Robert Horry, Mike Wozniak, Evan Turner, and Tre Demps.
Tim Cates will serve as studio host, guiding pregame, halftime and postgame coverage throughout the tournament’s run.
“The Big Ten Conference has talent as at least 8 schools will earn NCAA Tournament bids. We are looking forward to broadcasting these marquee matchups courtside from the United Center in Chicago,” said Horry.
From a business perspective, Compass Media Networks views the tournament as a valuable national platform for sponsors seeking engaged audiences during a peak listening window on the sports calendar. Paul Gregrey, President of Sales and Marketing, said the passion associated with the Big Ten fan base consistently delivers strong returns for advertisers and strategic partners, reinforcing the importance of the company’s ongoing relationship with the conference’s championship event.
“We are so appreciative of this special partnership and cannot wait for tip off,” said Gregrey.
All tournament broadcasts will air across more than 150 terrestrial sports radio affiliates nationwide, while also streaming through digital audio platforms, including the Varsity app and SiriusXM, expanding access for fans who prefer to listen on mobile devices or satellite radio.
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