Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) have announced the purchase of WNBL side, the Bendigo Spirit.

The multi-platform content and entertainment group will utilise their network to benefit the team and support the growth of women’s sport, they will also broadcast all Spirit games on the SEN Bendigo app.

Commenting on the announcement, Sports Entertainment Network CEO, Richard Simkiss, said: “The WNBL is one of the fastest growing leagues in Australia, and we are confident our acquisition of the Bendigo Spirit will help promote the game to new and existing audiences.”

“We sincerely value being part of local communities throughout regional Victoria and remain committed to this connection via platforms including the SEN Bendigo app, where the Spirit will play a key role in providing engaging content to local fans,” he said.

Bendigo Stadium Limited chief executive officer, Dennis Bice, added: ““We are committed to the success of Bendigo Spirit and this agreement will ensure the longevity of the team. Bendigo Stadium Limited will continue to support elite women’s sport in Bendigo and the pathways it makes available for our younger basketball community.”

The acquisition of the Spirit adds to SEN’s growing ownership portfolio, who previously purchased a 100% stake in NBL side, the Perth Wildcats and the men’s and women’s sides of the NZNBL’s Otago Nuggets.

Additionally, SEN previously owned a 25% stake in Melbourne United before they made the Wildcats purchase.

The announcement comes after head of the WNBL, Christy Collie-Hill, told Ministry of Sport about the league’s growth plans.