April 9, 2010

BEAUMONT - Lamar University and KBTV FOX 4 have reached an agreement that makes FOX 4 Lamar's exclusive television station for live broadcasts of all Lamar athletic events.

"This is a historic event for FOX 4, and we are delighted to be the official new home of Lamar University athletics," said Darren Lehrmann, Beaumont general manager of FOX 4, as he joined a number of Lamar officials in announcing the agreement at a Friday morning press conference at FOX 4 headquarters in Parkdale Mall. "We are committed to providing our Southeast Texas viewers, and most importantly - the fans of Lamar sports - with exclusive live coverage of college football, basketball and baseball throughout each year.

"I would like to extend a special thanks to Lamar President Dr. Jimmy Simmons, Director of Athletics Billy Tubbs and Vice President for Finance and Operations Bob Lovitt for granting FOX 4 this exclusive opportunity to partner with Lamar University athletics."

Pursuant to the agreement, all games will air live on FOX 4 and will include 30-minute pre- and post- game shows. Production and on-air talent will be at the control and expense of FOX 4 with input from Lamar University athletics.

Additionally, FOX 4 will produce a 30-minute prime-time special previewing the upcoming athletic season. The station will also produce a postseason special.

Also, FOX 4 will feature a segment on the latest in Lamar athletics every week from August through the end of the College World Series in June on its expanded Sunday night sports show.

"All of us at KBTV FOX 4 and Nexstar Broadcasting are excited to be a part of the next level of Lamar University athletics," said Brian Jones, executive vice president and COO of Nexstar Broadcasting Group.

LAMAR