ABC has a long history of broadcasting the games of all major sports leagues, but in recent years, the network has lost several high-profile sports contracts. For instance, in 2014, ABC announced the end of coverage of the American Le Mans Series, which moved to NBC Sports. In 2015, ESPN took over the rights to broadcast the NBA, and in 2016 CBS acquired the rights to broadcast NASCAR. Despite the many problems with its programming, the networks have retained an impressive list of high-profile shows and series.

The channel first began broadcasting the NFL games in 1960, but its lineup changed to reflect the changing sport scene. In 1961, Wide World of Sports was broadcast from 5 to 7 p.m. Eastern Time, a time slot that hasn't changed since. By the 1970s, the network's lineup has included the play-by-play announcer Frank Gifford, a former NFL player and current television analyst Don Meredith. The NFL also has its own prime-time show, "The Game," with Don Meredith as its host.

In 1997, ABC sold Capital Cities-ABC to Capital Cities Communications. In 1995, ESPN signed a similar television rights deal with ABC. Since then, ABC has produced Major League Soccer games and NBA games. In 2002, the network has also begun airing the MLB and NFL Finals. The network will also continue to air reruns of Roseanne and The Wonder Years. There is one major difference between ABC Sports and ESPN. In terms of content, ABC is more focused on sports and entertainment. It does a good job of this, and many viewers have come to expect that.

In 2006, the network will begin to air some college basketball games on its own. The network has a more traditional sports format, while ABC will be focusing more on basketball and hockey. It will also carry some NFL games, but will still rely on the ABC broadcaster's name, graphics, and production. This does not mean that ABC won't carry an event. Most sporting events are governed by contractual agreements between the networks.

In 2007, ABC's Sunday afternoon block was reduced to one hour in the absence of a major sporting event. On the other hand, ABC had been able to rebroadcast the game on its own despite the fact that the network is not a major sports network. In addition to its broadcasting schedule, ABC also produces specials about different sports. For example, in the summer, it aired a Little League World Series game on its network.

After the 1972-73 season, ABC lost the rights to the NBA to CBS. This lasted until May 10, 1973, when Arledge was named vice president of ABC Sports. During this period, Arledge was the top executive at ABC. However, he didn't gain the title of president until four years later, as Scherick became the network's vice-president of programming. This left the network with two big sports shows: the NBA and Monday Night Football.