Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have successfully negotiated a new carriage deal, marking the end of a prolonged blackout that left many Comcast customers without access to Bally Sports channels. As a result of this resolution, fans will once again be able to tune in to their favorite local sports teams starting at the beginning of August.
The blackout, which began at the start of May, kept sports enthusiasts in the dark for several months. "Entering a new carriage agreement with Comcast, our third largest distributor, is a critical step forward in our restructuring effort, and we are pleased that fans will again be able to access broadcasts of their local teams through Xfinity," said David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group.
Resumption of Broadcasts
Comcast's strong market presence in key areas like Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami means a significant number of sports fans will benefit from the renewed access to live local Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), and National Hockey League (NHL) games.
Specifically, Xfinity customers with the "Ultimate TV" package can enjoy this content, with the package including a free three-month trial period. After this trial, the package comes at an additional cost of $20 per month. Fans have until August 30 to upgrade to this package if they wish to take advantage of the offering.
Streaming and Alternatives
The return of Bally Sports channels to Xfinity packages will also boost the Bally Sports app, which provides an in-market viewing option for fans of the Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, and Detroit Tigers. However, fans of teams like the Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins will need to rely on broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
Paramount Amid Restructuring
This renewed arrangement comes at a crucial time for Diamond Sports Group, who have been navigating bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11 for the past 16 months. Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, recognises the importance of these deals in stabilising their operations. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," Preschlack noted.
The urgency to conclude agreements with major sports leagues cannot be overstated, particularly with the basketball and hockey seasons on the horizon. Diamond Sports Group's plans extend beyond merely securing distribution; the company aims to develop a comprehensive reorganization strategy to present to the court. As Preschlack outlined, "We are mindful that time is of the essence with basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching, and once agreements with our team and league partners are complete, we intend to move expeditiously to present a plan of reorganization to the court."
Diamond Sports Group currently holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, further highlighting the importance of these relationships in the broader sports broadcasting landscape. The company's leadership is evidently committed to ensuring a seamless transition for fans and stakeholders alike by stabilizing and potentially growing their content offerings.
Final Thoughts
As Diamond Sports Group works through its restructuring phase, the new carriage deal with Comcast stands out as a pivotal achievement. It not only reinstates live local sports for many fans but also marks a significant step in the company's ongoing efforts to solidify its market presence and operational stability. With the prospect of finalized agreements with the NHL and NBA, Diamond Sports Group seems poised to emerge from its Chapter 11 proceedings with a more robust and resilient business model.
For sports fans and stakeholders, the restoration of Bally Sports channels on Comcast marks a welcome return to normalcy and a hopeful outlook for the future. The sports world will be keenly watching how Diamond Sports Group navigates these crucial next steps, ultimately shaping the viewing experience for millions of fans nationwide.