NBC Sports Group, Poker Central launch programming partnership

(PRESS RELEASE) -- NBC Sports Group and Poker Central have forged a media rights agreement in which NBC Sports Group will present Poker Central's world-class poker programming across its linear and digital platforms, both parties announced yesterday.

Poker Central programming will debut on NBCSN (NBC Sports Network) on Monday nights as early as summer 2017 with the Super High Roller Bowl — the biggest buy-in poker tournament of the year — along with other events to be announced that will feature captivating high-stakes poker action.

"With our large slate of premier tournaments combined with our experienced team of content creators, Poker Central is creating a comprehensive platform that truly stands out in a crowded content space," said JR McCabe, Chief Digital Officer of Poker Central. "Partnering with the distinguished NBC Sports Group allows us to distribute our content to a platform agnostic audience."

Poker Central's partnership with NBC Sports Group is the latest move toward bringing high-stakes poker entertainment to a larger audience. As the relationship expands, additional poker programming will roll out with an expansive roster of events lined up for fall 2017 and beyond.

"NBCSN is thrilled to present Poker Central's high-stakes action," said Gary Quinn, Vice President, Programming, NBC Sports Group. "Partnering with Poker Central allows us to continue to deliver high-quality programming, while creating a destination for both existing and new poker fans alike."

Featuring the largest buy-in of the year at $300,000, the 2017 edition of Poker Central's Super High Roller Bowl hosts top poker players from around the world and one surprise celebrity player yet to be announced. After selling out in less than a day earlier this year, Poker Central expanded the field to 56 players who will all compete for their share of the $16.8 million prize pool — one of the year's largest — with the top finisher going home with $6 million.

NBCSports and the NBC Sports app — NBC Sports Group's live streaming platforms for desktops, mobile devices, tablets and connected TVs — will provide streaming coverage for its Poker Central content.