Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a pivotal new carriage deal, effectively ending a months-long blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers. This resolution is a significant marker for the sports broadcasting landscape, as it ensures that fans can once again access their favorite local teams starting in early August.
For the past 16 months, Diamond Sports Group has been navigating the turbulent waters of Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. During this period, they pulled their channels off the air in early May, leaving many fans without access to local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, expressed optimism in a statement: "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."
Returning to the Game
Xfinity customers who subscribe to the "Ultimate TV" package will be able to watch live, local games. This package includes coverage of MLB, NBA, and NHL games, catering to a broad spectrum of sports fans. Notably, it provides in-market viewing options via the Bally Sports streaming app for Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, and Detroit Tigers fans. Meanwhile, fans of the Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins must rely on broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
Comcast boasts a strong presence in key markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami. Thus, the agreement will restore much-needed access to these areas, revitalizing the local fan experience. Xfinity customers have until August 30 to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package. As an added incentive, subscribers opting for this package will receive a free three-month trial, followed by a cost of $20 per month.
Addressing Broader Challenges
Despite this deal, the path ahead for Diamond Sports Group is complex. The company, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, is focused on solidifying agreements with the NHL and resolving ongoing negotiations with the NBA. Preschlack stated, "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA."
The urgency is palpable, with basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching. Preschlack highlighted the company's intent to move swiftly once these agreements are in place, stating, "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."
Beyond the Broadcasting Rights
Currently, Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, and the new deal with Comcast marks a crucial milestone in their broader restructuring efforts. The company aims to stabilize its operations and ensures that fans can continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to live sports.
The return of Bally Sports channels to Comcast will be a welcome relief for many sports enthusiasts. The integration of various viewing options, both through traditional broadcast and streaming via the Bally Sports app, is set to enhance the experience for fans, particularly in market-specific contexts.
As Diamond Sports Group navigates the final phases of its reorganization, the sports broadcasting industry will be keenly observing their efforts to solidify league agreements and present a comprehensive reorganization plan to the court. The coming months will be pivotal as they work to secure their position and continue delivering valuable sports content to their dedicated viewership.