When you're watching a WNBA game, few things are more iconic than that bright orange-and-white ball. Now, USA Network is bringing that signature look straight into its broadcasts in a fresh and creative way—and it's already turning heads.
In its first season as a WNBA broadcaster, USA Network has introduced a clever new free-throw graphic that uses a tiny version of the league's ball to track each shot from the charity stripe. When a player steps up for free throws, small ball-shaped icons appear at the bottom of the scorebug, paired with a fraction showing the number of attempts. Make a shot, and that icon lights up, shifting from a muted grey to the ball's unmistakable orange-and-white pattern. The fraction updates in real time too, going from an asterisk to something like 1/2 after a successful attempt.
Lead WNBA announcer Kate Scott gave fans a first look at the new feature during Sunday's broadcast, showing off the sleek design that makes it easy to follow the action at the line. Think of it as a little nod to the Three-Point Contest—except now it's for every free throw.
While USA Network shares the same scorebug template as NBC and Peacock (they're all part of the same corporate family), this small but bold addition gives USA its own visual identity. The bright orange in the graphic also ties perfectly into both the WNBA's and USA Sports' branding, creating a cohesive look that feels fresh and modern.
Sure, new broadcast elements can take a little getting used to. But often, when one network takes a risk like this, it sets a new standard for the entire industry. This move shows USA Network is thinking creatively about how to enhance the viewing experience for fans.
Scott and lead game analyst Sarah Kustok tipped off the season on Sunday with a marquee matchup between the defending champion Las Vegas Aces and the Los Angeles Sparks. USA Network will air the second-most regular-season games of any WNBA broadcast partner this year, following its split from NBC Universal under the new Versant banner. The network will also carry select postseason games and five of the seven WNBA Finals contests (which will also stream on Peacock).
The broadcast team is stacked with talent: Scott and Kustok lead the way, joined in the studio by Elle Duncan, Renee Montgomery, and Hall of Famer Chamique Holdsclaw. Active WNBA star Sophie Cunningham will also contribute throughout the season.
Whether you're a die-hard fan or just tuning in, this new free-throw graphic is a fun, visual way to follow every point. And for a sports apparel audience, it's a reminder that the WNBA's unique style—from the ball to the brand—is showing up everywhere, even on the scorebug.