ESPN.com and CNET.com Announce ESPN Tech Gear Guide Powered by CNET; C

    Business Editors/Sports Editors/Technology Writers

    SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 14, 2005--The recent popularity of new technologies like high-definition television, video highlights on mobile phones, portable music players, and a booming sports video game industry all signal that sports and technology are more closely linked than ever before. That connection between sports and technology is the foundation for ESPN Tech Gear Guide powered by CNET, a new special section of ESPN.com launched recently in cooperation with CNET.com, a trusted resource for people interested in enhancing their life with personal technology and a property of CNET Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq:CNET). The section will give fans a home on ESPN.com to learn about the latest technologies and products that give them a greater experience as fans and athletes, at home or at the game.
    "ESPN.com has an audience of passionate sports fans who have a tremendous interest in technology and desire to purchase high-tech products," said John Kosner, senior vice president, ESPN New Media. "Working together with a trusted leader like CNET allows us to serve fans' needs and offer them a convenient place to learn and easy access to buy."
    "Sports are a real-time phenomenon, and tech gadgets that give fans instant access to scores, stats, and video clips are now a must-have for die-hard enthusiasts," said Patrick Houston, editor-in-chief of CNET.com. "CNET is very excited to be working with ESPN.com to show consumers the hottest new gear for their favorite pastime. This new section also gives CNET great exposure in front of a broad new audience."
    According to research firm Mediamark Research Inc., ESPN.com fans are 28 percent more likely to say that technology is important to them, and are 39 percent more likely to purchase new technology products and services.
    Under the agreement, the ESPN Tech Gear Guide powered by CNET will be hosted by ESPN.com, with CNET.com handling all e-commerce functions and providing the editorial content for the section, which will include:

CONTACT: CNET Sarah Cain, 415-344-2218 sarah.cain@cnet.com or ESPN Paul Melvin, 860-766-9581 paul.melvin@espn3.com

KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: COMPUTERS/ELECTRONICS SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT INTERNET E-COMMERCE PRODUCT MARKETING AGREEMENTS SOURCE: CNET

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