Linear Over Streamers: Decoding Oklahoma State's TV Inventory
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A look at the 2026-27 Big 12 television designations reveals a heavy lean toward linear networks over streaming outlets for the Cowboys.
Q: What is the primary takeaway from the release of Oklahoma State's 2026-27 basketball television designations?
A: As Sports Illustrated first reported, the significant trend is the prevalence of linear television over streaming. Out of 18 Big 12 conference games, 14 are scheduled for linear TV, while only four are designated for streaming outlets.
Q: Which networks are handling the Big 12 broadcast rights for Oklahoma State?
A: Sports Illustrated reports that ESPN and Fox serve as the primary rights holders. However, ESPN has sublicensed games to TNT, NBC, and CBS. The specific distribution for the Cowboys' conference games is as follows: - CBS Sports Network: 5 games - ESPN Networks (non-streaming): 4 games - Fox/FS1: 4 games - NBC Sports Network/Peacock: 2 games - ESPN+: 2 games - TNT: 1 game
Q: Which specific games are relegated to streaming-only platforms?
A: Per Sports Illustrated, only two conference games will be on ESPN+: a home matchup against Utah on Jan. 12 and an away game against Utah on Feb. 27. While two games are designated for Peacock, Sports Illustrated notes those will be simulcast on NBC Sports Network.
Q: How does the non-conference schedule differ in terms of valuation and placement?
A: The non-conference slate shows a heavier reliance on streaming for lower-profile matchups. Sports Illustrated lists several games on ESPN+ (including matchups against Incarnate Word, Queens (NC), Central Arkansas, Jackson State, Tennessee State, Grand Canyon, Oral Roberts, and Houston Christian) and one on SEC Network+ (at Texas A&M). However, high-value inventory remains on linear TV, such as the Dec. 12 Bedlam game against Oklahoma on ESPN2 and a Dec. 5 matchup against Saint Mary's on TNT.
Q: When does the conference linear television run begin for Oklahoma State?
A: As reported by Sports Illustrated, the linear conference schedule starts Jan. 2 with a 7 p.m. tip-off against Colorado on CBS Sports Network.