The Detroit Lions have signed a contract with Entercom Detroit to move the team’s radio network to that company and have 97.1 The Ticket in Detroit serve as the flagship radio station. The move ends a five-year run with WJR-AM serving as the radio home of the Lions.
All of the Lions Radio Network’s familiar programming, including live game broadcasts, pre- and post-game shows and exclusive player interviews, will appear on 97.1 in Detroit. The station served as the longtime broadcast home of the Lions before a rift with the critical tone of the station forced a move five years ago. Entercom will also own the distribution rights for affiliate stations in Michigan and Ohio.
“The Lions are synonymous with the city of Detroit and this is a great opportunity to leverage our position as the unrivaled leaders in sports radio and deliver dynamic Lions content, both on game days and throughout the year,” said Debbie Kenyon of Entercom Detroit, via a statement. “This partnership now makes 97.1 The Ticket the flagship station for all four professional sports teams in the Motor City, giving fans a one-stop destination for all of their favorite local teams.”
There is no immediate word on any personnel changes to the radio network, but popular play-by-play man Dan Miller is expected to remain with the team.