Jan. 10, 2008

AMHERST, Mass. - An agreement in principle has been reached between the University of Massachusetts Athletic Department and CBS3 Springfield (WSHM-TV) on a new partnership for coverage of UMass Athletics. As part of the agreement, CBS3 will produce and air the Travis Ford Basketball Show, which is set to return later this season.

"We are very happy to have a new partner in CBS3," said Associate Athletic Director for Media Relations Jason Yellin. "The Travis Ford Show has been very well received over the last few years and with our basketball team off to a tremendous start we are looking forward to getting the program back on the air. CBS3 puts great value in UMass Athletics and that is important to us, as we continue to build winning programs which represent the University and our supporters in Massachusetts."

CBS3, which is owned by Meredith Corporation, is equally thrilled about the relationship. "Partnering with UMass is very a exciting opportunity for CBS3 Springfield," said John Hesslein, the station's general manager. "It is a real privilege for CBS 3 Springfield to continue the long broadcast history of the UMass Coach's show for everyone in Western Massachusetts."

The show will air on Friday nights at 11:15 p.m. The actual start date will be announced later this month. The Voice of the Minutemen Bob Behler will serve as the show's studio host with Coach Ford. CBS3 Sports Director Scott Harris will produce and cover feature segments for the broadcasts.

The Travis Ford Basketball Show will return to NESN and CSTV as well, once CBS3 begins production as well. Those air dates are still to be announced.