Sports
Monumental Sports & Entertainment Rebrands its Media Platform
Monumental acquired former NBC Sports Washington from Comcast/NBC Universal in 2022; network will be available on the same broadcast channels across all cable and satellite providers
Last Updated on July 3, 2024 by Daily News Staff
Monumental Sports Network and Announces New Content and Programming for D.C. Sports Fans starting in the 2023-24 Season
WASHINGTON /PRNewswire/ — Today, Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) announced the official rebrand of its sports network, NBC Sports Washington, as Monumental Sports Network. The rebranding will take effect this September and will replace all instances of the NBC Sports Washington brand and logo. The rebranding will also extend to new on-air graphics, digital aesthetics, and more. Monumental will launch a brand awareness campaign this summer to inform fans of this transition, ahead of the 2023-24 NBA and NHL regular seasons.
When the new Monumental Sports Network brand goes live this fall, the network will launch a variety of new original and studio programs that overhaul the network’s 24-hour programming experience. This investment in programming will complement the hundreds of live games and pre- and post-game programs that the network already produces for the NHL’s Washington Capitals, the NBA’s Washington Wizards, the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, the G League’s Capital City Go-Go, the NBA 2K League’s Wizards District Gaming – all franchises owned and operated by Monumental. Monumental Sports Network holds exclusive local TV media rights to the NHL’s Washington Capitals, NBA’s Washington Wizards and WNBA’s Washington Mystics games. Additionally, the network will carry hundreds of hours of programming for local collegiate and high-school level games across D.C., Virginia and Maryland.
The programming additions include two new studio shows, behind-the-scenes team magazine shows, and coverage from D.C. native Rachel Nichols, the nationally recognized sportswriter, reporter and broadcaster.
“When we acquired NBC Sports Washington, we committed to building the best local sports network for our fans. Today’s announcement is the first of many which reflect significant investments that we are making back into our media platform that will greatly upgrade the everyday experience for D.C. sports fans and our various partners,” shared Zach Leonsis, President of Media & New Enterprises, Monumental Sports & Entertainment. “We’re incredibly excited to debut the many enhancements that we’ve developed over the course of this past year and believe that fans will genuinely appreciate the thoughtful approach that we’re taking to bring them closer to the teams and athletes that they love and admire.”
About the Rebrand:
The rebrand will replace all instances of the NBC Sports Washington brand and logo, and will extend to new on-air graphics, digital aesthetics, and more. Monumental, in partnership with renowned brand agency, HZ, developed the brand’s logo, upcoming campaign and extensions.
To build a brand that truly represents D.C. sports, the concept started with a focus on the heart of the organization: the fans. The naming and brand development process included deep market research, analysis, and multiple rounds of testing with focus groups and participants across the DMV. And while Monumental Sports Network is the existing namesake of the digital network which MSE launched in 2016, after several thoughtful rounds of examination, it rose to be the most suitable brand for the new station.
The testing included thousands of current season ticket holders for the Capitals, Wizards, and Mystics – the most loyal and enthusiastic fans who consume the brand most consistently. Participant groups were expanded to also include casual sports fans, community members, and those who live outside the DMV but still identify as D.C. sports fans. Of the six names tested, the one that resonated the most and felt the most authentic was Monumental Sports Network. Almost half of participants picked this as their front-runner over the other options presented.
With the name locked in, attention turned to the logo and brand development. With several unique logo options and multiple brand-looks, testing began with the various participant groups and they provided quantitative and qualitative feedback. The logo — “Monumental M”— was the clear winner, with favorability double that of other logo concepts. The subtle nods to the Washington Monument in the composition of the logo is unique and authentic to D.C. HZ also used the power of each team’s colors and identities in crafting the new Monumental Sports Network brand. D.C.’s architecture, textures, and symbols were also used as inspirations throughout the brand iconography. Participants overwhelmingly gravitated to that brand option over all others.
“The team at HZ that helped develop the brand is a unique combination of brand experts, DMV natives, and huge D.C. sports fans,” shared Katie Hooper, President, HZ. “It gave us a unique opportunity to craft a brand that we knew would truly resonate with the community. Leaning into the strengths of how iconic D.C. is and collaborating with fans, we found so much inspiration to push the brand forward and create something that only a D.C. sports network could own.”
About the New Content & Programming:
Monumental Sports Network is pursuing a significant overhaul of the network’s programming for the upcoming season including multiple new in-game enhancements, new original programming, alternate feeds of live games, and additional on-air talent including national media personality, Rachel Nichols.
Live game enhancements:
- Sideline reporters will travel and report on-the-ground for all games.
- Players and coaches will be mic’d up in-game, bringing fans closer to the action during broadcasts 40 Wizards and 40 Caps games per season.
- Point-of-view cameras will be positioned for announcers, capturing the most dramatic calls for all games.
- Unparalleled access and views for fans watching Alex Ovechkin’s chase of history to beat Wayne Gretzky’s all time goal scoring record.
- Unique crash box camera angles will be positioned during Washington Capitals games for ice-level game action and new access to behind-the-scenes and point-of-view cameras outside the Capitals’ locker-room for home games.
- Wireless cameras will be positioned for game production, capturing more in-arena excitement/reactions.
- There will be more opportunities to get to know players with longer-form, personality driven postgame interviews.
- The pregame and postgame shows will start the season being produced from Capital One Arena until the network’s new studios are delivered at the end of 2023/early 2024.
- Fans will also see more advanced analytics during broadcasts.
New original programming:
- Rachel Nichols Project: A new interview format series will feature award-winning journalist and sportscaster Rachel Nichols. Rachel will be telling the stories of her hometown’s top sports talent and celebrities.
- By the Book: In conjunction with Caesars Sportsbook, Monumental will re-launch the network’s marquee sports betting series for a third season. Highlights will include a new studio and cutting-edge graphics.
- Untitled Capitals Magazine: A new weekly series will highlight the best behind-the-scenes, off-ice stories with players, staff, and other Capitals fanatics stories, hosted by network presenter Alexa Landestoy.
- Untitled Wizards Magazine: A new weekly series will feature the best behind-the-scenes, off-court stories with players, staff and other Wizards fanatics stories, hosted by network presenter Wes Hall.
- Untitled Top 10 Series: Program will count down the greatest moments in Capitals and Wizards history in this new format series; episodes may include greatest goals, buzzer beaters, dunks, and comebacks.
- Classic Capitals and Wizards games: Fans will be able to relive classic Capitals and Wizards games and anniversaries tied to major rivalries and marquee matchups during the 2023-24 seasons.
- Other specials and limited series in development: Fans will gain behind-the-scenes access to Monumental’s sports teams’ players and coaches, there will be new studio specials celebrating important moments throughout the season, podcasts diving deeper into stories both on and off the court/ice, and new limited series focusing on fashion and the NBA.
Alternate Feeds:
- Fans can anticipate at least 100 games where there will be alternate feeds across both the Wizards and Capitals’ regular season games each year.
- Alternate feeds will be available on the network’s soon-to-be launched digital platform during game times when the Capitals and Wizards aren’t playing at the same time.
- Alternate feeds will feature rotating on-air talent including former players, team personnel, local media personalities, and more – but in a more casual, conversational setting while analyzing the game.
- Alternate feeds will also feature advanced data analytics and other data visualizations to enhance the on-screen experience.
- The network will pursue the production of alternate feeds upon opening its new state-of-the-art studio experience later in the 2023-24 NBA and NHL regular seasons.
All of Monumental Sports Network’s new programming enhancements will improve the game day experience for fans, creating a longer programming grid that builds up to the game itself, upgrade the current broadcast, and gives viewers more choices to enjoy their broadcast.
Additional Assets
In addition to the brand and programming notes, Monumental Sports Network will launch a new digital experience and newsletter.
The new digital experience will be home to live games for pay TV customers, exclusive digital content, and the latest news, schedules and stats from our teams.
The newsletter will keep fans up to date on all things Monumental Sports Network each week, presented in a quick and easy to consume format. Fans will get the latest schedule and programming updates, the best broadcast moments and the most interesting stories and news about the teams.
To see more, visit: https://www.monumentalsportsnetwork.com/coming-soon
“This brand personality conveys key pillars for our network: confidence, authenticity, iconicity, inclusiveness, and innovation” said Friday Abernethy, General Manager of Monumental Sports Network. “And we expect that the way we are programing the network, making investments in technology and the new production studio, and designing a seamless fan/user experience will set the trend for the entire industry.”
Today’s announcement of the network’s rebranding as well as new content and programming for the 2023-24 season and beyond will be followed by additional announcements about the network in the coming months. The full technical and operational change-over from former NBC Sports Washington to Monumental Sports Network will come this fall, ahead of the start to the NHL and NBA seasons. At that time, fans will see new logos and a new brand identity when they tune into the familiar station.
Audiences tuning into Monumental Sports Network will still see some legacy programming from NBC Sports Washington’s existing contracts. An announcement will be made later this summer on the launch date and schedule for the new broadcast line-up. Channel guides will continue listing the station as NBC Sports Washington until the full technical and operational changeover in the Fall.
The rebrand and programming line-up announcement is just the first phase in bringing Monumental Sports Network to fans, with exciting plans for an upgraded fan experience to be announced throughout the Summer and Fall of 2023.
About Monumental Sports Network
Monumental Sports Network is wholly owned and operated by Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE). The network holds exclusive local television media rights for the NHL’s Washington Capitals, NBA’s Washington Wizards and WNBA’s Washington Mystics games. Monumental Sports Network is also the TV and digital home to the NBA G League’s Capital City Go-Go and the NBA 2K League’s Wizards District Gaming as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes content and original sports and entertainment programming. The network also boasts the most comprehensive regional high-school and regional collegiate Division II-and-under sports programming in the greater Washington D.C. metro area. For more visit: https://www.monumentalsportsnetwork.com/coming-soon
SOURCE Monumental Sports & Entertainment
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Sports
Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play
Ace Pickleball Club launches a national Player Development Series with four training levels, plus free Intro to Pickleball clinics. Learn what’s included and how to sign up.
Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play
Pickleball keeps pulling in new players for one simple reason: it’s easy to start and hard to stop. But once the “first game” excitement wears off, a lot of people hit the same wall—How do I actually get better without guessing what to practice next? Ace Pickleball Club (APC) just rolled out a clear answer. On December 17, 2025, Ace Pickleball Club announced the nationwide launch of its new Player Development Series—a four-stage training pathway built to help players learn fundamentals, build consistency, and progress toward competitive play over time.A four-stage pathway built for real progression
APC’s Player Development Series is structured as a multi-tier program with four progressive levels of instruction, designed to meet players where they are and give them an obvious “next step.” Here’s how the series breaks down:- Starter Series (available now nationwide): An eight-session program focused on core fundamentals, guided drills, and confidence-building play.
- Essentials Series (select locations now; nationwide in early 2026): Built to help players develop consistency and prepare for intermediate-level games.
- Performance Series (rolling out first half of 2026): Focused on strategy, court awareness, and competitive growth.
- Precision Series (rolling out first half of 2026): The final stage, centered on fine-tuning technique and advanced shot-making.
Beginner-friendly entry point still available (and free)
Alongside the new series, APC will continue offering its Intro to Pickleball clinic at all locations at no cost. This is a smart move because it removes the most common barrier for new players: feeling unprepared. According to APC, the Intro clinic provides everything needed to step onto the court, including:- Paddles
- Balls
- A welcoming, skilled instructor
- A beginner-friendly introduction to rules, movement, and the spirit of the game
Why APC is betting on development right now
Pickleball’s growth is bringing in players with wildly different goals—some want a fun weekly workout, others want to climb into competitive brackets. Joe Sexton, President of Ace Pickleball Club, said the new series is designed to serve that full range: “Our Player Development Series gives every member a clear next step, whether they’re touching a paddle for the first time or working toward advanced competitive play.” He also emphasized that APC is aiming to strengthen the community-first culture that keeps people coming back.Included as part of the member experience
APC says the Player Development Series is included as part of the Ace Pickleball Club Member experience, reinforcing its mission to keep the sport accessible, fun, and growth-oriented across ages and skill levels.About Ace Pickleball Club
Ace Pickleball Club is a national pickleball franchise built around a member-focused model and all-inclusive pricing. APC promotes an “open play on demand” approach—meaning players don’t need to coordinate groups, plan far in advance, or reserve a spot just to get on the court. APC currently has 22 locations open nationwide, with more planned for 2026. Clubs feature professional-grade cushioned courts and a climate-controlled playing environment.How to learn more or sign up
To learn more or register for a Player Development Series session, visit:Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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Sports
Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball
Paddletek forms the Paddletek Group with ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow—plus a new performance paddle line coming next month.
Pickelball multi-ethnic female team with concentrated expression about to play in an outdoor court
Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball
Pickleball’s growth has been loud, fast, and impossible to ignore. Now the equipment side of the sport is starting to consolidate in a way that could shape what players swing next season. On Dec. 19, 2025, Paddletek announced the creation of the Paddletek Group, a new umbrella organization that brings together Paddletek, ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow under one platform. The goal: accelerate innovation in high-performance pickleball paddles (and padel rackets), expand athlete support, and build a bigger engine for growth as both sports continue to surge.What is the Paddletek Group?
At its core, the Paddletek Group is a multi-brand merger designed to unify product development, athlete partnerships, and go-to-market momentum across several recognized names. The announcement positions the new entity as a “unified platform” for:- Innovation in performance equipment for pickleball and padel
- Support for sponsored athletes
- Scaling growth as participation expands
Why this merger matters to players
Most players don’t wake up thinking about corporate structure. They wake up thinking about feel, control, pop, spin, and whether their paddle is helping or hurting them in tight points. This merger matters because it combines two distinct strengths:- Paddletek’s legacy in performance design and manufacturing
- ProXR’s performance-driven approach
A milestone moment for the brand (and the sport)
Curtis Smith, Founder of Paddletek, framed the move as bigger than a business headline. He said the formation of the Paddletek Group “marks an important milestone” for the brand and for pickleball and padel, adding that bringing the brands together “amplifies our ability to innovate to support both recreational and elite players.” That “recreational and elite” line is worth paying attention to. It suggests the group wants to build a product pipeline that spans:- approachable paddles for the everyday player
- high-performance models for advanced and tournament-level athletes
Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story — A Closer Look at the Documentary and Its Uncredited Voice
The numbers: one million paddles, made in the USA
Paddletek also highlighted a major manufacturing and brand milestone: more than one million paddles sold, with products “proudly made in the USA.” In a category where manufacturing origin is part of the brand story (and sometimes part of the buying decision), that’s not a throwaway detail—it’s a positioning statement. The release also notes that, with the merger, the Paddletek Group becomes the No. 2 paddle brand among advanced players, citing the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).What’s coming next: a new performance paddle line
The most immediate product news is this: the Paddletek Group says it will introduce a new performance paddle line next month, combining “the strength and expertise from both great brands.” While the release doesn’t share specs, pricing, or model names, it does set expectations that this won’t be a minor refresh. It’s being framed as a true “combined” line—likely the first public proof point of what the merger unlocks.Padel expansion is clearly on the roadmap
Pickleball may be the headline, but padel is not an afterthought here. The group says plans are underway to expand innovation into padel, which is seeing rapid growth globally. For equipment companies, padel represents a bigger international footprint and a different performance profile—meaning more R&D opportunity and, potentially, a broader athlete ecosystem.The leadership angle: Thirty-5 Capital steps into the spotlight
The release also spotlights Thirty-5 Capital’s role. Ron Saslow, Founder and Managing Partner at Thirty-5 Capital, is named CEO of the Paddletek Group. Saslow described the moment as “exhilarating” given the global growth of pickleball and padel, and said the group brings together “respected brands with complementary strengths, and tremendous technologies to create an even bigger, bolder, better company.” Private equity involvement doesn’t automatically mean “good” or “bad” for players—but it often means the company is gearing up to scale: more product launches, more marketing, more athlete signings, and more distribution.What to watch as this rolls out
If you’re a player, coach, or gear-head, here are the practical questions this announcement raises:- Will the new paddle line create a true performance leap, or mostly consolidate existing tech?
- How will athlete rosters evolve across Paddletek and ProXR sponsorships?
- Will “made in the USA” remain central as the group scales?
- How aggressively will the group push into padel, and will that influence pickleball R&D priorities?
Learn more
- Paddletek: https://www.paddletek.com/
- Thirty-5 Capital: https://www.thirtyfivecapital.com/
Disclosure: This article is based on a press release distributed via PRNewswire on Dec. 19, 2025. Sources: PRNewswire press release page: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/introducing-paddletek-group-advancing-the-future-of-performance-pickleball-302646989.html
The Sports section of STM Daily News is your ultimate destination for all things sports, catering to everyday fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. We cover a wide range of topics, from the thrill of amateur competitions to the excitement of semi-professional and professional leagues. Our content delves into physical and mental fitness, providing insights and tips that help individuals elevate their performance, whether on the field or in their personal wellness journeys. Stay informed and inspired as we explore the dynamic world of sports, celebrating both the passion of the players and the joy of the fans.
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Food and Beverage
White Castle’s House of Crave: The Ultimate White Elephant Gift Guide for 2025
White Castle’s House of Crave has the ultimate White Elephant gifts for 2025—from viral Crocs to nostalgic plush dragons. Find steal-worthy, laugh-inducing gifts that’ll win your holiday exchange. Free shipping Dec 10!
Last Updated on December 5, 2025 by Daily News Staff
White Castle crocs are just one of many items available at White Castle’s House of Crave online store. They make ideal white elephant gifts!
White Castle’s House of Crave: The Ultimate White Elephant Gift Guide for 2025
If you’ve ever been stuck staring at a gift table wondering which White Elephant present to steal, you know the struggle. The best gifts? They’re the ones that make people laugh, spark conversation, and get snatched up twice before the game even ends. This year, White Castle is stepping into the White Elephant arena with a lineup that’s equal parts hilarious and surprisingly practical. Their House of Crave online store is now stocked with holiday gifts that’ll have your friends and family fighting over who gets to take home the White Castle Crocs. Yes, you read that right. White Castle Crocs.What Makes a Great White Elephant Gift?
Before we dive into White Castle’s offerings, let’s talk strategy. The best White Elephant gifts hit three key notes:- Unexpected: Nobody sees it coming, and that’s what makes it memorable
- Conversation-starter: It gets people talking, laughing, or scratching their heads
- Steal-worthy: It’s so good (or so ridiculous) that people actually want it
Top White Elephant Picks from White Castle’s House of Crave
White Castle Crocs
Let’s start with the obvious winner. These aren’t just any Crocs—they’re White Castle Crocs. Cozy, comfortable, and guaranteed to turn heads at the grocery store or your next backyard BBQ. Perfect for the Craver in your life who takes their fast-food loyalty seriously. Why they’ll get stolen: They’re practical footwear with a sense of humor. Plus, Crocs are having a major moment right now.Willis the Dragon Plush
If you grew up in the ’80s, you might remember Willis the Dragon from White Castle’s kids’ meals. This plush green dragon is pure nostalgia wrapped in soft, huggable fabric. It’s the kind of gift that makes millennials and Gen Xers feel all the feels. Why they’ll get stolen: Nostalgia is a powerful thing. Plus, who doesn’t love a cuddly dragon?White Castle Craver Casserole Dish
Here’s where things get unexpectedly practical. This casserole dish is perfect for White Castle’s famous Slider-based stuffing (yes, that’s a thing), but it also works for any holiday meal. It’s functional, it’s branded, and it’s the kind of gift that’ll actually get used. Why they’ll get stolen: It’s useful and funny. The best White Elephant gifts walk that line perfectly.Annual Holiday Mug
Classic, festive, and perfect for sipping cocoa while you munch on Sliders. This mug is a no-brainer for anyone who loves seasonal drinkware or just needs another vessel for their morning coffee. Why they’ll get stolen: Everyone needs mugs. Bonus points if it becomes a yearly tradition.More White Elephant Gold from House of Crave
White Castle didn’t stop there. Their online store is packed with dozens of other gift-worthy items that fit perfectly into the White Elephant vibe:- Pickleball paddle set: For the competitive friend who’s always looking for their next match
- Classic tin lunchbox: Retro, practical, and perfect for packing Sliders (or, you know, regular lunch)
- Beanies, bucket hats, and T-shirts: Wearable Craver pride for the fashion-forward fast-food fan
- Beach towels and bathing suits: Because White Castle goes to the beach, apparently
- Pint glasses and tumblers: Perfect for toasting holiday cheer or your next Slider feast
- Tote bags: Practical, portable, and proudly Crave-forward
- Friendship bracelets: A sweet way to commemorate your fellow Cravers
Why White Castle’s White Elephant Strategy Works
Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle, put it perfectly: “White Elephant exchanges are where personality really shines. The House of Crave has dozens of items designed to bring a smile, spark a laugh or make someone feel like the Craver they truly are.” And that’s the secret sauce. White Castle isn’t just selling merchandise—they’re selling personality. These gifts work because they’re fun, affordable, and totally unexpected. Nobody walks into a White Elephant exchange expecting to leave with White Castle Crocs, but once they’re on the table? Game on.How to Shop White Castle’s House of Crave
Ready to snag your White Elephant gift? Head over to White Castle’s House of Crave online store and browse the full collection. With dozens of items to choose from, you’ll find something that fits your budget and your sense of humor. Pro tip: White Castle is offering free shipping on all House of Crave merchandise on December 10. Mark your calendar and save on shipping while you stock up on gifts.The Bottom Line: White Elephant Gifts That Actually Deliver
White Elephant exchanges are supposed to be fun, and White Castle’s House of Crave delivers exactly that. Whether you’re going for laughs, nostalgia, or something genuinely useful, this lineup has you covered. So skip the generic candles and boring gift cards. This year, bring the Crocs. Bring Willis the Dragon. Bring the casserole dish. Bring something that’ll make people smile, laugh, and fight over who gets to take it home. Ready to win your White Elephant exchange? Visit White Castle’s House of Crave and find your perfect gift today. Don’t forget—free shipping on December 10!About White Castle White Castle is America’s first fast-food hamburger chain, serving hot and tasty Sliders since 1921. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the family-owned business operates about 340 restaurants and has earned accolades including “Most Influential Burger of All Time” by Time magazine. Known for passionate fans (Cravers) and legendary team engagement, White Castle has been Great Place to Work® Certified for five consecutive
Source: White Castle Press Release – PRNewswire
Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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