In my last post I mentioned that there are only a few (I said 3) events from the WSOP that will be televised this year. I have noticed something I think is a bit odd over the last few years, while there appears to be a growing interest in watching poker on television ESPN has decided to cover fewer events (in their defense they have expanded the coverage of the main event almost every year).

Now understand that I am just happy that any events are being covered, but with that being said there are 57 bracelet events (and a few special events) that could be covered. One reason I have heard as to why some events aren’t covered is that people don’t want to watch anything except no-limit hold-em. Personally I think this may be true because people don’t get exposed to the other games. Look back the coverage over the years – almost every event that has been covered is nlhe (no limit hold em), and only occasionally has any other game been covered (there was some coverage of horse events for a couple years, but even that has been changed to only show the final table and that will be nlhe).

I guess the point I am trying to make is that we repeatedly hear no one wants to watch anything else, but if you never give them the chance how do you really know? If you have only showed it to them briefly, you don’t have much of a comparison.

My opinion on the matter is this:

1. We need a full-time 24/7 poker channel that could have coverage of events that never get air time otherwise.
2. When major tournament stops are being televised, why not show some of the specialty events that occur at the same time?
3. If you’re going to show other games (beside nlhe) then take a minute to explain the rules of the game.
4. You will never get people interested in viewing other games if you don’t show them the other games.

I am under absolutely no illusions that this post is going to make a bit of difference to anyone. I just felt like getting it off my chest and out there for consideration.

On a related note, I am very disappointed in Charter. Supposedly they are going to be airing the new Poker stars sponsored show The Big Game late nights (I thought about the same time as Poker After Dark) on FOX, and yet I can’t find a listing for it anywhere. Sometimes I just hate only having one choice for cable.

More later…..