The Detroit Pistons have signed a multi-year deal with Scripps TV, bringing the team’s games back to free, over-the-air television for the first time in more than twenty years.
Beginning in the 2026-27 NBA season, WMYD TV20 Detroit will be the only local channel showing all Pistons games that are not nationally televised. Local fans will no longer need expensive cable subscriptions to watch these games.
What does the Pistons Scripps TV deal include?
This deal is a big win for fans who have faced high costs and technical issues with Regional Sports Networks. People in Detroit and across Michigan can watch games with a basic digital antenna, and the broadcasts will still be available on some cable and satellite providers.
This change comes after Main Street Sports Group, the previous rights holder, went out of business. The Pistons were one of 13 NBA teams looking for a more reliable and accessible way to show their games.
“This move is for our fans,” said Pistons Owner Tom Gores. He explained that the team’s recent success should be seen by as many people as possible, not limited by paywalls.
The team expects this deal will let them reach almost every home in the area, much more than traditional cable sports channels. WMYD TV20 will air the games, and their sister station WXYZ (ABC 7) will offer more news and extra programming about the Pistons.
Experts point out that Detroit is the first NBA team to work with Scripps Sports, which already partners with five NHL teams and the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces. This deal could lead the way for other NBA teams dealing with local TV challenges.
How the Pistons Scripps TV deal affects fans
For most fans, this deal means lower monthly costs and a more modern way to watch games. Besides live broadcasts, Scripps and the Pistons will also create a weekly half-hour show and launch a new streaming app for fans.
With both options, cord-cutters can pick between free traditional TV or a special digital platform to keep up with the team.
The Pistons Scripps TV deal is a big win for sports fans in a world where paywalls are common. It brings back a sense of community while also meeting today’s viewing habits.
With growing excitement about the Pistons’ future, free local games could help bring back family viewing traditions in southeast Michigan and beyond.