Sports broadcaster SEN acquire Bendigo Spirit

THE Bendigo Spirit WNBL side has been bought by Sports Entertainment Network, in a move the multi-platform broadcast group said will increase coverage, analysis and discussion of the team.

The two-time WNBL champions are the first elite women’s basketball team SEN has purchased, and the deal means all Spirit games will be broadcast within the SEN Bendigo app.

The license will last for 10 years, during which the team will continue to be known as the Bendigo Spirit and the Bendigo Stadium will continue to host all home games.

Bendigo Stadium Limited CEO Dennis Bice said the deal will help grow women’s basketball in Bendigo.

“We are committed to the success of Bendigo Spirit and this agreement will ensure the longevity of the team,” he said.

“Bendigo Stadium will continue to support elite women’s sport in Bendigo and the pathways it makes available for our younger basketball community.”

BSL held the WNBL licence for a period of four years and after a challenging 2021/22 season on and off court where the Spirit finished fifth, while head coach Tracey York announced her resignation last week.

CEO of Ballpark Entertainment, Rainmaker and Publishing at SEN, Richard Simkiss, said the acquisition, “Will deliver significant benefit to the team and the overall growth of women’s sport throughout the SEN network.

“We sincerely value being part of local communities throughout regional Victoria and remain committed to this connection via platforms including the SEN Bendigo app, where the Spirit will play a key role in providing engaging content to local fans,” he said.