About: Sports channels, specialty networks through cable and satellite, broadcast live sporting events and offer sports news and related programs when events aren’t airing. The first such channel launched in 1977 by Sports Channel networks, followed by ESPN in 1979. Today, numerous global channels focus on specific sports or regional teams, significantly expanding access to sports broadcasts. These channels cover most regular season games across major professional leagues and other sports, with major networks supplementing coverage during weekends and special events like championships and all-star games.