The network's programming will be limited to overnight and weekend hours, so as not to interfere with any of the station's local shows. The Zone also will continue to broadcast the Dan Patrick and Jim Rome shows from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays.

ESPN programming was to begin Monday night after the broadcast of the Vanderbilt-Lipscomb men's basketball game.

"We've chosen to add ESPN Radio to our current product, not necessarily molding our product around ESPN Radio," said Brad Willis, program director for 104.5 The Zone. "We feel like it's a big upgrade from our current programming and will give listeners the most up-to-date information available in hours that we're not 'live and local.' "

106.7-FM The Fan carried ESPN programming until July, when the station changed formats.