NEC Should Expand Regional Sports Network Footprint to Chicago

The NEC released its 2026 ESPN+ and regional sports network schedule yesterday. The conference will have four games on ESPN+, with two being simulcast on the YES Network, NESN Nation, and Sportsnet Pittsburgh. NESN will air a single game. While the NEC only has a modest selection of games this year, it is clear that the league wants to use any medium for exposure.

The conference can expand its regional sports network footprint once Chicago State joins in football next year. The Chicago Sports Network, the television home of the White Sox and Blackhawks, lacks college athletics inventory.

Adding the NEC regional package is a win-win for both parties. The Chicago Sports Network gains live inventory and will not have to pay for production, while the NEC gains more exposure.

The fact that the NEC has not yet taken advantage of this partnership in Olympic sports is disappointing. It shows a lack of forward thinking in an ever-evolving college sports landscape.

The NEC has not included either Chicago regional sports network in its men’s and women’s basketball package since Chicago State joined the league in 2024.

Being on as many platforms as possible is the best way for the NEC to emerge from its overlooked reputation in the FCS. It will not catapult them into blueblood status immediately, but it will help reduce the apathy toward the league among much of the national media.

Although outdated, regional sports networks maintain some credibility in their association with major pro sports. This alone is a minor recruiting advantage.

Additionally, Chicago State has already scheduled marquee non-conference games. If the NEC is wise, they will take advantage of this and add them to their regional sports network package next year.

Chicago State hosts North Carolina A&T next season. Despite falling on hard times after moving to the Coastal Athletic Association, the Aggies remain a This game alone would elevate the NEC regional sports network package and actively engage the Windy City market.

Regional sports networks continue to be a dying medium. Most would welcome any live programming that it did not have to produce. The NEC’s omission of the Chicago Sports Network is inexcusable.

The league will remain stagnant without fully taking advantage of its markets. Hopefully, the conference will finally right this wrong when Chicago State joins the league in football in 2027.