USA Network debuts new free-throw graphic for WNBA broadcasts

TL;DR

USA Network introduces a new free-throw graphic for WNBA broadcasts, featuring the league's signature orange-and-white ball. The graphic displays icons and fractions indicating free throw attempts and successes.

Key points

USA Network debuts a new free-throw graphic for WNBA broadcasts
Graphic features WNBA ball icons and fractions for free throw attempts
Icons light up when a player makes a free throw
Kate Scott showcased the feature during a recent game

Credit: USA Sports

One of the most distinct visual elements of a WNBA game is its signature orange-and-white ball, and in USA Network’s inaugural season, airing the league’s games, it is integrating the ball into its broadcasts in a fascinating way.

When a player shoots free throws, small icons that look like the WNBA ball will appear on the bottom of the USA scorebug, along with a fraction indicating the number of foul shots. If a player makes a free throw, the icon lights up, going from dark grey to that signature orange and white. Likewise, the fraction goes from an asterisk to, for example, 1/2.

USA Sports’ lead WNBA announcer, Kate Scott, showcased the new feature on Sunday’s broadcast.

While USA is using the same scorebug as NBC and Peacock after previously living under the same corporate umbrella, this wrinkle will distinguish USA’s visuals. The WNBA and USA Sports both use a bright orange color in their branding.

Any time a new broadcast graphic element comes around, it can seem unusual at first. Often, when one network takes a risk, it sets a new norm for the industry.

Scott and lead game analyst Sarah Kustok tipped off the season on Sunday with a game between the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces and the Los Angeles Sparks. USA will broadcast the second-most regular-season games this year of any of the league’s broadcast partners after splitting from NBC Universal under the new Versant banner. USA will also air some postseason games and five of seven WNBA Finals games (though these will also stream on Peacock).

USA’s coverage is helmed by Scott and Kustok, along with Elle Duncan, Renee Montgomery, and Hall of Famer Chamique Holdsclaw in the studio. Active WNBA star Sophie Cunningham will contribute as well.

The post USA Network debuts new free-throw graphic for WNBA broadcasts appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Q&A

What is the new free-throw graphic introduced by USA Network for WNBA games?

The new graphic features icons resembling the WNBA ball and fractions indicating free throw attempts, with the icon lighting up when a shot is made.

Who showcased the new free-throw graphic during the WNBA broadcast?

Kate Scott, USA Sports' lead WNBA announcer, showcased the new feature during a recent broadcast.

How does the new free-throw graphic enhance WNBA broadcasts on USA Network?

The graphic visually integrates the WNBA's signature ball into broadcasts, providing viewers with clear indicators of free throw attempts and successes.