The longstanding blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers has finally come to a close. Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a new carriage agreement, ending months of frustration for fans. As a result, avid sports enthusiasts will once again be able to follow their beloved local teams starting from the beginning of August.
This welcome news arrives as Diamond Sports Group, owners of 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, continues to navigate bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11. David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, expressed relief and optimism about this development in the company’s restructuring efforts. "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," Preschlack stated.
Streaming and Broadcast Options for Fans
The new deal brings back live broadcasts of local MLB, NBA, and NHL games for Xfinity customers subscribed to the "Ultimate TV" package. Notably, this package offers a free three-month trial period, after which it costs an additional $20 per month. With Comcast's significant presence in markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami, a substantial number of fans are expected to benefit from the renewed access to Bally Sports channels.
Fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers can also turn to the Bally Sports streaming app for in-market viewing options. However, fans of the Braves and Twins will need to rely on traditional broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
Upcoming Agreements with the NHL and NBA
As Diamond Sports Group emerges from these challenging times, the focus is now on finalizing agreements with the NHL and NBA. Preschlack emphasized the urgency of these negotiations, recognizing the proximity of the basketball and hockey seasons. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," he noted. "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."
A Strategy for the Future
The carriage agreement with Comcast signifies a significant move in Diamond Sports Group's broader strategy to stabilize and strengthen their position in the sports broadcasting market. The company currently holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams and is firmly concentrated on securing similar arrangements for other major sports leagues. Once they finalize these critical agreements, they plan to present a comprehensive reorganization plan to the court, aiming to emerge from bankruptcy with a more resilient and streamlined operation.
Xfinity customers have until August 30 to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package to take advantage of the free trial period. This renewal of broadcasting rights is expected to be a boon not only for the fans but also for Diamond Sports Group, as they look to rebuild and gain certainty around their distribution channels moving forward.
Comcast's substantial market presence means that thousands of sports fans in major cities will now regain access to their favorite teams, bringing back the thrill of live sports into their homes. For Diamond Sports Group, this deal marks another essential step in their journey towards financial stability and operational efficiency.
As the sports world eagerly anticipates the upcoming basketball and hockey seasons, the renewed access to Bally Sports channels ensures that fans won't miss a moment of the action from their local teams, both on the diamond and the court. For now, the fans can breathe a sigh of relief and prepare to enjoy the games they love, as the broadcasting landscape moves towards a more stable and promising future.