Comcast and Diamond Sports Group Reach New Carriage Deal
In a significant development for sports enthusiasts, Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have successfully negotiated a new carriage agreement, marking the end of a prolonged blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers. Fans who subscribe to Comcast’s "Ultimate TV" package will once again have access to live, local games just in time for the MLB, NBA, and NHL seasons, beginning in early August.
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, expressed the importance of this agreement for 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," he noted.
Respite for Fans
This resolution offers a much-needed respite for sports fans in Comcast-heavy markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami. These regions experienced the blackout after Diamond Sports Group pulled their channels off the air in early May due to unresolved negotiations.
Diamond Sports Group, currently navigating bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11, owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner. The blackout had been both a challenge and an inconvenience for fans devoted to their local teams.
Subscribers to the "Ultimate TV" package can now watch live local MLB, NBA, and NHL games, regaining access to a crucial source of sports entertainment. Xfinity customers interested in this offering must upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package by August 30, with a free three-month trial period available before incurring an additional $20 per month.
Enhanced Viewing Options
The new agreement particularly benefits fans of local teams by offering various viewing options. Diamond Sports Group's streaming app provides in-market viewing for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers. However, those supporting the Braves and Twins will need to use traditional broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
Preschlack also emphasized the company’s next steps. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," he stated. "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."
Looking Forward
Moving forward, Diamond Sports Group is keen to finalize agreements with both the NHL and NBA, ensuring comprehensive coverage for a wide array of sports fans. This initiative is part of the company’s broader reorganization strategy, which they plan to present to the court once all agreements are solidified.
Currently, Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, further underlining the importance of securing deals with other major sports leagues. The emphasis on providing continuous and reliable access to sports content is central to the company's strategy during its bankruptcy proceedings.
As this new deal unfolds, fans and stakeholders alike will be closely monitoring the effects on local sports broadcasts and the overall market dynamics. For now, Comcast customers can celebrate the return of Bally Sports channels and prepare for an exciting upcoming sports season.