Gracenote vs Gray Media

CTV Show-Level Data Glut Fails to Deliver Optimization Control

While CTV buyers increasingly demand show-level transparency, a new IAB report shows 43% lack confidence in inventory. Despite progress in show-level reporting, true program-level optimization remains elusive. Publishers and exchanges offer data, but limitations persist: incomplete bidstream signals, "unknown" titles, and lack of scaled optimization solutions. Privacy laws like VPPA, combined with household-level data, complicate sharing. Linear TV offers program-level control by design, while CTV faces a gap between reporting and active optimization. Buyers can receive post-campaign reports but can't programmatically target individual shows at scale, except via programmatic guaranteed deals. The industry is working toward compliant, scaled optimization, but meaningful progress is still needed.

• 43% of CTV buyers have little or no confidence in the inventory they buy (IAB).
• Major exchanges do not offer scaled show-level optimization as a standard product.
• One top-five streamer's SSP integration prevents pulling show-level reporting.

Gracenote expands AI product roadmap with sports MCP server, entertainment SLM and agents

The expansion comes as companies adopt general-purpose LLMs to improve viewer experiences, guide content decisions and streamline operations.

Gracenote study: 85% of sports fans want TV home screens to show when and where to watch favorite teams

91% of survey respondents say centralized sports information would make it easier to find the games and events they want.

Cavaliers to Air 15 Free Games on Local TV

The Cleveland Cavaliers announced that 15 regular-season games for the 2026-27 season will be available free over-the-air, simulcast on Gray Media stations and streamed on DAZN. This move extends the NBA's broader trend of moving local games to broadcast television following the decline of regional sports networks. Fans in the Cleveland market can watch on WOIO, WUAB, and Rock Entertainment Sports Network, with other markets also carrying the games. The free games will have pregame and postgame coverage. The team's full local streaming package is available via DAZN subscriptions, with plans ranging from $19.99 monthly to $139.99 for a season pass. The Cavaliers join other teams like the Hornets, Magic, and Suns in offering free over-the-air viewing options.

• Cleveland Cavaliers will air 15 regular-season games free over-the-air on Gray Media stations.
• Games will also be streamed free on the DAZN app, requiring a free DAZN account.
• DAZN is the Cavaliers' streaming home, with season passes from $119.99 to $139.99.

Gray Sets Date for Second Quarter Earnings Release and Earnings Conference Call

Gray Media announced the date for its Q2 2026 earnings release and conference call on July 8, 2026.

Gray Media Completes Offering of $70 Million of Additional 7.250% Senior Secured First Lien Notes due 2033 and Repurchases $50 million of Series A Preferred Stock

Gray Media announced the completion of an offering of $70 million in additional 7.250% Senior Secured First Lien Notes due 2033 and repurchased $50 million of Series A Preferred Stock.