In a significant development for sports fans, Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have successfully negotiated a new carriage deal, ending a protracted blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers. This resolution will allow fans to once again access broadcasts of their favorite local teams starting in early August.
This agreement marks a crucial milestone for Diamond Sports Group, which has 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, had pulled their channels off the air at the beginning of May, leaving a void for many sports enthusiasts.
Restoration of Local Sports Coverage
As per the new deal, Xfinity customers subscribing to the "Ultimate TV" package will gain access to live, local games for Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), and National Hockey League (NHL). This includes critical regional markets like Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami.
Diamond Sports Group's streaming app further supplements in-market viewing by providing access for Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers fans. Meanwhile, fans of the Braves and Twins will need to tune into their local broadcast channels for game coverage.
Opportunity for Fans and Subscribers
Xfinity customers have until August 30 to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package, which not only restores access to Bally Sports channels but comes with a complimentary three-month trial period. Post-trial, the package will be available for an additional $20 per month.
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, commented on the importance of this agreement: "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." This sentiment underlines the pressing need for consistency in the distribution of sports broadcasting.
Focus on Future Negotiations
Diamond Sports Group’s focus is now set on finalizing agreements with the NHL and continuing negotiations with the NBA. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," Preschlack added.
The urgency is palpable as the basketball and hockey seasons rapidly approach. "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," stated Preschlack.
Bankruptcy and Future Plans
Since filing for Chapter 11, Diamond Sports Group has been under immense pressure to stabilize its operations. The company holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams and has been actively seeking to present a comprehensive plan of reorganization. The successful navigation of these agreements has significant implications for the future of sports broadcasting in the affected regions.
As the dust settles on the carriage dispute, fans can look forward to the reinstatement of their local sports coverage and the broader implications of Diamond Sports Group's restructuring efforts. With the end of the blackout, a sense of normalcy returns, along with the excitement and passion that comes with live sports broadcasting.