Disney's push into sports streaming with new ESPN service and app is expected to drive growth and profitability, reinforced by positive analyst outlook.

The sports network's first on-demand streaming platform is available with Disney+ and Hulu starting at only $29.99 per month.

By Lisa Richwine LOS ANGELES -Walt Disney's ESPN will deliver its full range of sports programming outside of pay TV for the first time starting on Thursday, when the network debuts an app designed to be a hub for live games and personalized news,

Disney Inc. (NYSE: DIS) shares rose more than 2% to $118.97 after the company officially launched its flagship ESPN streaming app, marking a major step into direct-to-consumer sports.

Tom Rogers, Former NBC Cable President and Newsweek Editor-at-Large, joins 'Closing Bell Overtime' with reaction to Disney's latest push into sports streaming with the ESPN app.

ESPN boss Jimmy Pitaro talks about balancing streaming vs. cable, the rise of sports betting, and diversity in the Trump 2.0 era.

Disney's profit and revenue climbed in its fiscal third quarter based on the strength of the entertainment company's streaming service and domestic theme parks.

Bob Iger, Disney CEO, and Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN chairman, join CNBC's 'Squawk on the Street' to discuss ESPN's new direct-to-consumer platform, how the success of the app will be measured, and much more.