Comcast and Diamond Sports Group Forge New Carriage Deal
Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have successfully reached a new carriage agreement, bringing an end to a prolonged blackout that has frustrated fans for months. This new deal ensures that Comcast customers will have access to Bally Sports channels once again, just in time for the start of August.
Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, had previously pulled their channels off the air in early May. The blackout affected a significant number of fans who rely on these networks to watch their favorite local teams, particularly those in Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), and the National Hockey League (NHL).
According to David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, "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."
Comcast has a notably strong presence in key markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami. As part of the new agreement, Xfinity customers who subscribe to the "Ultimate TV" package will be able to watch live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. This package offers a three-month free trial period, after which it will cost an additional $20 per month. Customers have until August 30 to upgrade to this package.
Bally Sports has also made substantial strides in enhancing its digital offerings. The Bally Sports streaming app provides an in-market viewing alternative for fans of the Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, and Detroit Tigers. However, fans of the Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins will have to rely on traditional broadcast channels to catch their local games.
The timing of this new deal is critical for Diamond Sports Group, which has been navigating bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11 for the past 16 months. The company currently holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams and is actively working to finalize agreements with the NHL and NBA. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," stated Preschlack.
Preschlack emphasized the urgency of these negotiations, given the proximity of the upcoming basketball and hockey seasons. "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," he said.
The new carriage deal with Comcast represents a significant step in Diamond Sports Group's ongoing restructuring efforts. By restoring access to Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers, the company aims to rebuild its relationship with both fans and teams. This move is expected to provide much-needed stability as Diamond Sports Group continues to sort through its financial challenges and secure its future in the competitive sports broadcasting landscape.
For fans, the resolution brings a welcome end to a frustrating period of uncertainty. Starting August, they can look forward to resuming their routine of watching live sports and supporting their local teams. The return of Bally Sports channels via Comcast is poised to reinvigorate the viewing experience for countless sports enthusiasts, reinforcing the enduring bond between fans and their hometown teams.