ESPN Buys Stake in Lacrosse League, Pointing to Strategy Shift

ESPN is acquiring a minority stake in the Premier Lacrosse League while also retaining its media rights, signaling a change in strategy during the streaming era.

The Walt Disney Co. network’s new five-year deal with the PLL starts after this season, according to the companies. The rights package and equity investment also include a stake in the PLL’s newly formed Women’s Lacrosse League. Terms weren’t disclosed.

“We believe very much in the future of the PLL, and we want to be a part of the growth that we’re already seeing,” said Rosalyn Durant, ESPN’s executive vice president of programming ...