As it was with HD and big screens, sports will be a big part of the market push behind 3D TV. HDTVs first began arriving at retail stores in 1999, but some analysts point to the debut of ESPN HD in 2003 as the turning point that gave HDTV significant momentum when its prospects were less than certain, and helped propel the format to majority status.

Even though ESPN 3D had already been announced earlier, now comes word that Directv will carry the channel when it premieres during the World Cup with 25 games in 3D during June and July. ESPN has indicated that at least 85 events will be produced in 3D during the first year, including the BCS Championship, X Games, and NBA games.

Directv will offer ESPN 3D, along with two additional 3D channels, free of charge. And Directv had previously indicated that most of their HD receivers will be automatically upgraded for 3D capability before those channels go live.

http://www.multichannel.com/article/...3D_Glasses.php

But, IMO the most interesting part of the cited article is that the 3D sports and other programming on the Directv 3D channel will include a wide range of program providers.

The satellite operator's N3D channel will include programming from partners AEG/AEG Digital Media, CBS, Fox Sports/FSN, Golden Boy Promotions, HDNet, MTV, NBC Universal and Turner Broadcasting System.
Fox Sports had already announced that the MLB All-Star game and post season will be produced in 3D. And CBS will use 3D cameras to televise this weekend's Final Four, with closed circuit screenings at 100+ movie theaters. Golden Boy Promotions has also committed to 3D production on its PPV boxing events. AEG, HDNet, NBC, and Turner all have rights to other high profile sporting events. With Directv's announcement, all of these 3D events now have an outlet -- one that doesn't cost extra for existing subscribers.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/2010-...ina-four_N.htm