In a bold move that has caught the attention of many in the radio industry, iHeartMedia has officially shut down its statewide "The Game" network throughout Wisconsin, following the significant programming shift of its Milwaukee station, WRNW, from Sports to Adult Contemporary in October. This transition highlights the ever-evolving landscape of sports radio broadcasting.
Previously, iHeartMedia had been committed to delivering twelve hours of sports programming daily to various affiliated stations across Wisconsin, including their own outlets such as "1070 The Game" in Madison and "98.7 The Fan" in Eau Claire. Additionally, listeners could stream content in Milwaukee via their online platform. However, after the closure of WRNW, several affiliates belonging to Midwest Communications—including 1440 WNFL in Green Bay and 93.9 WRIG in Schofield—have transitioned to Audacy’s Wisconsin Sports Network, marking a significant shift in local sports broadcasting.
With the dismantling of the network, the popular morning show previously hosted by Bill Schmid and Armen Saryan will now welcome former afternoon host Drew Olson for a fresh program titled "The Huddle," set to air on both "Fox Sports 920" WOKY Milwaukee and WTSO from 5 to 8 am. Throughout the rest of the day, both stations will feature national programming from Fox Sports Radio, ensuring listeners still receive quality sports content.
This restructuring brings an end to the "DND" show, which was hosted by Doug Russell, Nick Bruesewitz, and Dave Gasper between 10 am and 2 pm, as well as the afternoon show led by Olson and Hunter Baumgardt, following the recent departure of Kevin ‘KB’ Brandt.
It's worth noting that iHeartMedia initially launched the statewide network back in November 2020, aiming to enhance sports talk radio across Wisconsin. Now, as this chapter closes, it raises questions about the future of local sports programming and how these changes will impact listeners and advertisers alike. What are your thoughts on this shift? Do you think this move will ultimately benefit or hinder sports radio in Wisconsin?
