NEW ORLEANS (WLBT) – Gray Media has announced the launch of The Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network, a new 13-station network that will provide access to sports and entertainment for 9.7 million viewers across the Gulf South region, including WLBT-TV in Jackson.

On September 17, Gray Media, in partnership with the New Orleans Pelicans, announced a transformative media rights deal that would bring the Pelicans NBA games to capital city households and 4.1 million total.

Based out of Gray Media’s WVUE-TV in New Orleans, The Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network will air 75 of the 82 regular season New Orleans Pelicans games.

“This strategic collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering engaging content to our viewers and supporting local sports,” a press release stated.

The Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network will debut its first Pelicans game Tuesday, October 15, with the preseason finale against the Houston Rockets at 7 p.m.

The regular season begins Wednesday, October 23, at the Smoothie King Center as the Pelicans host the Chicago Bulls with tip-off at 7 p.m. The Pelicans and Bulls game will simulcast on WVUE FOX 8.

The network will be available free over-the-air with an antenna in all affiliate markets, including WLBT-TV, ensuring broad access for all fans. Viewers can look forward to seeing broadcasts in markets including:

Louisiana Gray Media markets:

• Alexandria – KLGC Channel 25.2
• Baton Rouge – WAFB Channel 9.3
• Lake Charles – KGCH Channel 32.1
• New Orleans – WVUE Channel 7.1
• Monroe – KCWL Channel 24.1
• Shreveport – KSLA Channel 12.2

Mississippi Gray Media markets:

• Biloxi – WTBL Channel 51.3
• Hattiesburg – WLHA Channel 18.2
• Jackson – WLBT Channel 3.3
• Meridian – WOOK Channel 15.5

Alabama Gray Media markets:

• Mobile – WALA Channel 10.5
• Birmingham – WBRC Channel 6.3
• Montgomery – WSFA Channel 12.3

In addition to over-the-air availability, The Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network will soon be accessible on multiple cable, satellite, and other services, providing even more ways for fans to connect with their favorite teams and entertainment content.

“Gray is committed to bringing local sports and entertainment to our over-the-air viewers,” said Sandy Breland, Gray’s Chief Operating Officer. “We are excited to launch The Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network as the new home of the New Orleans Pelicans. Now, Pelicans fans across the Gulf Coast will have an opportunity to enjoy the games and cheer on their team.”

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