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CBS Sports Network exists in the shadow of ESPN when it comes to televising college lacrosse, but the network has re-upped its commitment to providing an outlet for the NCAA's best spring sport for the next few seasons. The package isn't gigantic, but it does confirm that that Patriot League Tournament -- one of the best in Division I -- will remain a national affair on a go-forward basis. To the press release!
The Patriot League and CBS Sports Network announced Monday a multi-year television deal in which the Network will air Patriot League men's and women's basketball and men's lacrosse as well as a variety of other sports, extending their 13-year relationship.
The deal provides for a minimum of 24 total live events in each year of the agreement, and maintains the League's presence on CBS Sports Network for tournaments in men's basketball, women's basketball and men's lacrosse. CBS Sports Network will televise the semifinals and championship of the Patriot League Men's Basketball and Men's Lacrosse Tournaments as well as the championship game of the Women's Basketball Tournament.
(Emphasis added.)
This is good news, especially considering that ESPN -- the market mover for lacrosse -- experienced flat ratings for Championship Weekend this past May (only 242,000 viewers absorbed a frantic Semifinal Saturday at Lincoln Financial Field). CBS Sports Network may exist in its own universe, but it's still nice that lacrosse will continue to have a home somewhere on your television.