ESPN Unveils Visionary Campaign: "SPORTS FOREVER"
A New Era Begins This Fall
Fall 2025 marks a pivotal moment as ESPN rolls out its pioneering direct-to-consumer (DTC) initiative with the teaser campaign “SPORTS FOREVER.” Since its inception in 1979, ESPN has consistently redefined the sports experience for fans worldwide. This campaign isn’t just a reflection of its storied past; it boldly outlines ESPN’s commitment to serving sports aficionados for years to come.
The Launch: A Historical Celebration
Launched on June 5 during the highly anticipated Game 1 of the NBA Finals on ABC, the “SPORTS FOREVER” teaser encapsulates the essence of ESPN’s legacy. It begins with a nostalgic nod to its origin story, featuring the iconic words of Lee Leonard, the original SportsCenter anchor: “If you’re a fan… what you’ll see in the next minutes, hours, and days to follow may convince you you’ve gone to sports heaven.” This groundbreaking statement laid the foundation for ESPN’s mission: to deliver sports content anytime, anywhere.
A Journey Through Iconic Moments
The teaser captures breathtaking snapshots from decades of unforgettable sports history. It resonates deeply with fans by revisiting championship moments from the College Football Playoff and NBA Finals, along with legendary calls like Stuart Scott’s electrifying “BOOYAH!” and Mike Breen’s memorable “BANG!” These moments are not mere clips but cherished memories that solidify ESPN’s place in sports culture.
Tina Thornton, EVP of Creative Studio and Marketing at ESPN, aptly states,
“ESPN has been at the center of sports culture for more than four decades – delivering the moments and emotions that connect generations of fans. As we gear up for this next era with our direct-to-consumer offering this fall, we can’t wait to deliver even more unforgettable moments.”
Spotlight on Women’s Sports and Digital Innovation
Developed in partnership with Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners (BSSP), the campaign proudly emphasizes ESPN’s leadership in women’s sports and showcases upcoming enhancements to the ESPN App. New features like personalized alerts and innovative viewing options are designed to enhance the fan experience. Notable ESPN personalities, including Adam Schefter, Pat McAfee, and Malika Andrews, bring the campaign to life, alongside “Prime-time Player” Dick Vitale.
The teaser wraps up with the iconic “DADADA, DADADA” SportsCenter jingle, a melody that has become synonymous with ESPN’s commitment to delivering real-time breaking news and alerts.
Conclusion: The Future of Sports Awaits
As we look ahead, Fall 2025 promises to usher in a new age for sports fans worldwide. The “SPORTS FOREVER” campaign isn’t just a milestone; it’s a declaration of ESPN’s dedication and passion for sports. Fans can expect an exhilarating journey as ESPN continues to evolve and embrace the future of sports entertainment.
Learn More
For further details on ESPN’s direct-to-consumer offering, visit the official ESPN Press Room.
Credits and Acknowledgements
The success of the “SPORTS FOREVER” campaign is a collaborative effort including influential figures in the ESPN Creative Studio and its partner agencies. Here’s a brief overview:
ESPN Team:
- Tina Thornton – EVP, Creative Studio and Marketing
- Jo Fox – SVP, Marketing
- Seth Ader – VP, Brand Marketing
BSSP Agency:
- Sinan Dagli – Executive Creative Director
- Andrew Crawford – Associate Creative Director
- Production Partners:
- Omri Cohen – Director, division7
- Kyle Hollett – EP, The Herd
This team and many others dedicated to this campaign signify that the essence of sports lives on and evolves within every play, every fan, and every moment – forever.
