USA Sevens announces NBC live broadcast deal

USA Sevens has announced that NBC Sports and Universal Sports will broadcast eight hours of live coverage of the event in Las Vegas, the fourth leg of the 2010/11 HSBC Sevens World Series, on 12-13 February 2011.

This is the first time that the tournament has had live television coverage in the United States.

“Rugby Sevens is an exciting, fast-paced sport that is growing in global popularity, participation, and interest,” said NBC Sports executive vice president Jon Miller.

“NBC had the privilege of broadcasting the inaugural 2010 Rugby Sevens Collegiate Championship and is excited to expand its coverage of rugby by bringing the HSBC Sevens World Series to live network television for the first time.”

Rugby Sevens' status as an Olympic sport is allowing Rugby administrators in the USA to grow and leverage the sport's appeal like never before.

The non-stop action, speed, high scoring and athleticism also appeals to the American consumer.

“The global appeal of rugby is undeniable and this tournament is known for featuring the best-of-the-best in the rugby world,” said Dan Lyle, Tournament Director of USA Sevens Rugby.

“We look forward to sharing the electric atmosphere of the HSBC Sevens World Series with millions of viewers as we take this exciting step for the sport.”

The Cosmopolitan has been confirmed as the official hotel partner for the event, with additional hotel partners including the Palms, Tropicana, Hard Rock and the Boyd Gaming Corporation.

To purchase tickets or travel packages for the event, visit www.usasevens.com.

US Broadcast Schedule:
• NBC Sports: Live coverage, 3:30-6:00pm ET on February 12; 4:30-6:00pm ET on February 13
• Universal Sports: Live coverage, 2:00-3:30pm ET on February 12; 2:00-4:30pm ET on February 13
• NBC Mobile: Live simulcast, 3:30-6:00pm ET on February 12; 4:30-6:00pm ET on February 13
• Hulu.com: Full-event coverage available on-demand in HD quality video