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DraftKings launches free streaming channel on Samsung TV Plus

Streamers who don't have a Samsung device can also watch DraftKings Network through a dedicated website.

Streamers who don't have a Samsung device can also watch DraftKings Network through a dedicated website.

A still frame from a DraftKings Network broadcast. (Graphic by The Desk)
A still frame from a DraftKings Network broadcast. (Graphic by The Desk)

Sports betting service DraftKings has launched a new streaming channel through Samsung’s TV Plus platform, the companies announced on Wednesday.

The new DraftKings Network is available on supported Samsung devices, including its Android phones and tablets and Tizen-powered smart TVs, through the Samsung TV Plus app. It is the first time a U.S.-based sportsbook has launched their own free, ad-supported streaming television, or FAST, channel.

“DraftKings Network is a new destination for passionate fans and bettors to get all-in on sports and celebrate the thrill of the action,” a spokesperson for DraftKings said in a statement. “Comprised of top talent  and trusted personalities across sports media, DraftKings Network will provide fans with  engaging content featuring a diverse set of leading voices across sports and entertainment.”

“DraftKings brings a fresh and crisp look to modern day sports news and entertainment programming, which our collaboration will deliver to users across millions of devices in the U.S.,” Takashi Nakano, the senior director of business development and content acquisitions at Samsung, said on Wednesday. “Whether it’s a lean back experience on a Samsung Smart TV or a lean forward experience on a Samsung Galaxy device on-the-go, we are excited to work with leading operators like DraftKings to serve today’s sports fan.”

The new DraftKings Network will feature a litany of sports betting and related programming, including a new comedy show called “Journeyman” featuring former NFL player Andrew Hawkins and a forthcoming basketball-themed show with sports personalities Amin El Hassan and Charlotte Wilder.

“In bringing together some of the most authentic sports and entertainment voices under one umbrella, DraftKings Network is the destination for ‘In on the Action’ sports fans and content they love,” Stacie McCollum, the vice president of content at DraftKings, said. “We look forward to  reaching fans with our deep roster of independent, credible and relatable voices that resonate with sports fans and the sports betting community.”

Streamers who don’t have access to a Samsung device can watch DraftKings Network as a free stream through the DraftKings website.

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About the Author:

Matthew Keys

Matthew Keys is an award-winning journalist with more than 10 years of experience covering the business of television and radio broadcasting, streaming services and the overall media industry. In addition to his work as publisher of The Desk, Matthew contributes regularly to StreamTV Insider and KnowTechie, and has worked for several well-known news organizations, including Thomson Reuters, McNaughton Newspapers, Grasswire, Comstock's magazine, KTXL-TV and KGO-TV. Matthew is a member of IRE, a trade organization for investigative reporters and editors, and is based in Northern California.

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