ESPN sues Verizon over tiered subscription service

ESPN on Monday filed suit against Verizon, alleging the communications giant violated its contract with the network by offering customers smaller, categorized subscription packages.

"We simply ask that Verizon abide by the terms of our contracts," ESPN said in a statement.

In a bid to lure cord-cutters and others interested in cheaper cable deals, Verizon debuted custom subscription plans this month that allow customers to purchase channels in genre-specific tiers, such as sports, entertainment, and kids. "Consumers have spoken loud and clear that they want choice, and the industry should be focused on giving consumers what they want," a Verizon spokesperson said in response to the suit, adding the company was "well within our rights under our agreements."

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