Get ready for a game-changer in Cleveland sports broadcasting! Rock Entertainment Group and iHeartMedia Cleveland are teaming up to bring your favorite teams to every corner of the city—but here’s where it gets exciting: this partnership is about more than just radio waves.
In a bold move, Rock Entertainment Group has inked a deal with iHeartMedia Cleveland to broadcast all their franchises across iHeart’s extensive network of stations. This means Cleveland sports fans are in for a treat, with every game, every play, and every thrilling moment more accessible than ever before. But what does this mean for you? Let’s break it down.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, the city’s beloved NBA team, will continue to dominate the airwaves on two powerhouse stations: Rock 100.7 WMMS and News/Talk 1100/106.9 WTAM. Whether you’re tuning in for the high-energy commentary or the post-game analysis, you won’t miss a beat. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
For hockey enthusiasts, the Cleveland Monsters of the American Hockey League are sliding into a new home on Sports Radio 99.1 (W256BT/WMMS-HD2). This station, which launched just last month, is already a go-to destination for sports fans, airing Fox Sports Radio programming around the clock. But here’s the twist: as part of this deal, select Rock Entertainment Sports Network programming will also simulcast on 99.1, blending local and national sports coverage like never before.
And let’s not forget the Cleveland Charge, the city’s NBA G-League team, who will be making waves on Hip Hop Real 106.1 (W291BV/WAKS-HD2). From slam dunks to three-pointers, every game will be available to stream on the iHeart app, ensuring you can catch the action no matter where you are.
But here’s where it gets controversial: With iHeartMedia’s unparalleled reach—covering over 90% of the market—some critics argue this partnership could overshadow smaller, independent sports broadcasters. Is this a step toward monopolizing sports media, or a necessary evolution in fan engagement? We’ll let you decide.
Michael Conley, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Rock Entertainment Group, emphasized the fan-first approach: “Providing a robust new platform for our community to connect and support our teams helps us continue to elevate how fans engage with Cleveland sports. Our collaboration with iHeartMedia demonstrates our shared commitment to accessible, high-quality coverage and innovative experiences.”
Keith Hotchkiss, Area President for iHeartMedia, echoed this sentiment: “It’s an honor to continue our decades-long partnership with the Cavs Operating Company, and we’re excited to bring this innovative new partnership to life with Rock Entertainment Group. Together, we’re making it easier than ever for fans to share their passion for Cleveland sports.”
And this is the part most people miss: This partnership isn’t just about broadcasting games—it’s about creating a community. By combining Rock Entertainment’s local expertise with iHeartMedia’s massive reach, fans will have more ways to connect, discuss, and celebrate their favorite teams. But is this enough to satisfy the die-hard fans who crave more than just play-by-play commentary?
As we look ahead, one thing is clear: Cleveland sports are about to get a whole lot louder. But we want to hear from you—is this partnership a slam dunk, or are there potential pitfalls we’re not seeing? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going!
