In a significant development for sports fans and the broadcasting landscape, Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a new carriage agreement. This resolution brings an end to the prolonged blackout of Bally Sports channels that affected Comcast customers, offering a sigh of relief to countless viewers nationwide.
“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,” said David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group. With this new agreement in place, Comcast customers will finally be able to watch their favorite local teams starting at the beginning of August.
End of a Prolonged Blackout
The blackout, initiated by Diamond Sports Group in May, saw fans deprived of Bally Sports channels for months. This disruption was particularly impactful, given that Diamond Sports Group owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner. Fans of MLB, NBA, and NHL teams were left scrambling for alternative viewing options during this period. With the new agreement, Xfinity customers subscribing to the "Ultimate TV" package will once again have access to live broadcasts of local MLB, NBA, and NHL games.
The renewed partnership comes at a crucial time as Diamond Sports Group continues to navigate bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11, a process they have been undergoing for the past 16 months. The importance of this carriage deal cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in the company's restructuring efforts.
A Broader Reach for Comcast
Comcast, with strong market presence in major cities such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami, will see a significant boost from this deal, ensuring that thousands of sports enthusiasts in these regions can stay connected with their local teams. While the Bally Sports streaming app will provide in-market viewing options for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers, those cheering for the Braves and Twins will need to rely on the broadcast channels for their game coverage.
Xfinity customers interested in witnessing their favorite teams live will need to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package by August 30. Subscribers will benefit from a complimentary three-month trial period, after which the package will cost an additional $20 per month.
Challenges and Road Ahead
David Preschlack further emphasized the importance of this agreement amid ongoing negotiations, stating, “With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA.” With the basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching, the pressure mounts for Diamond Sports Group to finalize these crucial agreements swiftly.
Preschlack highlighted the urgency, 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.”
Diamond Sports Group's current portfolio includes linear rights to an impressive 12 Major League Baseball teams, further underscoring the significance of these ongoing negotiations. The company remains focused on solidifying its partnerships and presenting a comprehensive plan of reorganization, ensuring a stable future for its regional sports networks and the fans they serve.
As Diamond Sports Group navigates these turbulent times, the new carriage deal with Comcast marks a positive step forward. For the multitude of sports fans affected by the blackout, the return of Bally Sports channels represents the restoration of a cherished pastime. The resolution provides a beacon of hope as Diamond Sports Group works towards stabilizing its operations and continuing to deliver premier sports content to its loyal viewership.