It likely comes from the idea of "scooping" up a story before others, as if using a scoop to gather the latest information. The term has been used in this context since the early 20th century, when newspapers were in fierce competition to publish breaking news before their rivals.

/skup/ Add to word list Add to word list. to lift something or someone with your hands or arms in a quick movement: She scooped the children up and ran with them to safety. I scooped up my belongings into my purse.