Mobile ESPN has chosen a modified Sanyo MM-9000 clamshell, otherwise known as the Sanyo MVP, as the centerpiece behind America’s first large-scale niche mobile service. The MVP, which is powered by Sprint’s EV-DO network, is said to deliver ESPN content via wireless broadband at industry-leading speeds.

We all know that if you want ESPN in your cable package, you’re going to have to opt for something over and above the “basic” level, and if you want ESPN on your phone, you should expect much of the same, because the service ain’t cheap! Monthly service will set you back $64.99 (so I guess that means $80 with FCC crap thrown in there), and that gets you unlimited access to ESPN’s mobile content as well as 450 anytime minutes. There is a cheaper plan, but it pretty much sucks because you only get a measley 100 minutes. On the upside, nights and weekends are free, but only if you opt for the $64.99 plan or higher. Mommy, I’m confused.

If you’re an ESPN junky, you’ll actually get quite a few decent features for your money, among them:

• Voice mail, call waiting, 3-way calling, call forwarding
• Downloadable ringtones, screensavers, and games
• Wireless Internet Access (WAP)
• 100 SMS text messages included with plan
• Text messaging
• 1 year ESPN The Magazine and ESPN Insider subscriptions

If you’re into customization and sports info, then Mobile ESPN promises to provide an innovative platform for you to get your daily dose of sports news. From the Mobile ESPN website:

Mobile ESPN is the most comprehensive sports experience available in the wireless market today. You’ll get news, scores, stats, and headlines—all delivered by Mobile ESPN. Personalize your phone with your favorite five teams and 15 players so you’re always only one touch away from the information you want. Get updates on your fantasy team from the road and set up text and video alerts for the teams and games you care about. So no matter where you are, you’ll always know the latest.

Oh, and did I mention that the Sanyo MVP includes an MP3/AAC player as well as a 1.3 MegaPixel camera? Not too shabby. Overall, this definitely looks like a product tailored to consumers who know exactly what they want out of a mobile service. With all the data features placed at the forefront, is Mobile ESPN ahead of its time in America, or is it going to help lead the way in catching up to the tech-happy Japanese market?