LCS Spring Split playoffs to be broadcast on ESPN

Riot Games has announced a partnership with ESPN to broadcast the LCS Spring Split playoffs.

The coverage will start on Wednesday 8th April in the United States, with the remaining games streamed live across ESPN.com and ESPN2, and later available on the ESPN app.

The first match to air will be 100 Thieves vs TSM on 8th April at 4pm EST, on the ESPN app and ESPN.com.

John Lasker, vice president of digital programming at ESPN, said: “We’re excited to work with Riot Games to create innovative content opportunities around this amazing franchise system.

“Showcasing one of the most popular esports in the world with the LCS Spring Split playoffs allows ESPN to serve new audiences.”

The Spring Split playoffs are heading to ESPN (Picture: lolesports) 

Chris Greeley, Riot Games LCS commissioner, said: “Now more than ever, coming together to watch and enjoy elite competitive gaming has the power to unite us as a community.

“We’re thrilled to bring the very best of the LCS to new audiences and existing fans through this partnership and look forward to some high-skill games on the Rift as we crown a new Spring champion.”

It’s perhaps an example of esports being given an opportunity to shine as traditional sports are postponed or cancelled in wake of the coronavirus outbreak - leaving the TV schedules wide open. 

ESPN has previously aired esports events like the Overwatch League playoffs and the Madden NFL 18 Championship Series, along with the Street Fighter V World Championship - although this is the first time they’ve delved into League of Legends.

You can check out the schedule below.

• 100 Thieves vs TSM - 8th April at 4pm EST
• Evil Geniuses vs Cloud9 - 11th April at 4pm EST
• Flyquest vs winner match 4 - 12th April at 4pm EST
• Third place match up - 18th April at 4pm EST
• LCS Spring Split Championship - 19th April TBD