KC Sports Network and UMKC Athletics Announce Strategic Partnership
10/13/2026 12:30:00 PM | Athletics
This multi-platform collaboration includes targeted marketing campaigns, custom integrations, and development of the new "Roo Sports Network.”
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Tuesday, October 13 — KC Sports Network (KCSN) and UMKC Athletics today announced a comprehensive strategic partnership designed to expand the reach of Kansas City's university, amplify UMKC Athletics campaigns, and deeply engage local sports fans across the metro area.
Through this multi-faceted agreement running through the conclusion of the UMKC basketball season, KCSN will leverage its media footprint, digital distribution, and production capabilities to spotlight Kansas City Athletics events, ticket promotions, capital campaigns, and university academic programs.
As a centerpiece of the partnership, KCSN and UMKC Athletics are collaborating on the launch of the "Roo Sports Network," an original channel celebrating UMKC Athletics, student-athletes, coaches, and university leadership.
"This partnership with KC Sports Network represents a tremendous opportunity to elevate the visibility of Kansas City Athletics and strengthen our connection with the community we proudly
represent. As Kansas City's Division I university, we have a responsibility to tell our story, showcase the outstanding individuals within our department, and create meaningful opportunities for fans, alumni, and supporters to engage with our programs. The Roo Sports Network will provide an exciting platform to highlight our student-athletes, coaches, and athletic administrators while bringing our university closer to the city we call home." — Dr. Brandon Martin, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, UMKC.
"Partnering with UMKC Athletics allows us to lean into our core mission: telling authentic, high-quality Kansas City sports stories. Kansas City's Division I University deserves a platform that'll grow and one that'll feature their program in today's digital landscape. We are excited to utilize our network's reach and digital production capabilities to showcase the Roos to passionate fans across the region." — BJ Kissel, CEO of KC Sports Network.
Production for the Roo Sports Network podcast begins this fall, with promotional campaigns launching across the KCSN media network immediately.
About KC Sports Network
KC Sports Network (KCSN) is a digital-first media company dedicated to providing comprehensive, authentic, and engaging coverage of Kansas City sports. Through podcasts, video programming, live events, and digital content, KCSN covers the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, regional college athletics, and high school sports for a passionate local and national audience.
About UMKC Athletics
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Athletics department, home to the Roos, competes in NCAA Division I as a proud member of The Summit League. Representing Kansas City's university, UMKC Athletics supports student-athletes across 14 varsity sports, promoting academic excellence, competitive achievement, and community leadership across the Kansas City region.
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