Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have struck a new carriage deal, ending a months-long blackout that left Bally Sports channels unavailable to Comcast customers. The resolution means fans will once again be able to watch their favorite local teams starting at the beginning of August, a welcome piece of news for many sports enthusiasts.
Impact on Local Sports Fans
This new agreement is significant, as it restores access to a vital source of regional sports coverage. Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, had previously pulled their channels off the air at the start of May, creating a void for fans of local sports teams. Comcast, known for having a strong market presence in cities like Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami, has now managed to resolve this issue to the benefit of its subscribers.
Xfinity Customers Rejoice
Xfinity customers who are subscribed to the "Ultimate TV" package will now be able to enjoy live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. As a special offer, those who upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package by August 30 will receive a free three-month trial period, after which the package will cost an additional $20 per month.
Bankruptcy and Reorganization
The deal comes at a pivotal time for Diamond Sports Group, which has been navigating Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings for the past 16 months. The company is working hard to finalize agreements with the NHL and NBA, aiming to present a plan of reorganization to the court. CEO David Preschlack noted the importance of this new deal with Comcast.
"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 said.
Streaming Options and Broadcast Channels
In addition to traditional broadcast options, the Bally Sports streaming app continues to offer in-market viewing for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers. However, fans of the Braves and Twins will need to use broadcast channels for their local game coverage. This hybrid approach ensures that more fans can access the content through their preferred method.
Future Agreements and Strategic Plans
Diamond Sports Group is keenly aware of the approaching basketball and hockey seasons, and Preschlack emphasized the urgency of finalizing agreements with team and league partners.
"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."
The company currently holds the linear broadcasting rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, which underscores the importance of these negotiations and the impact they have on the sports broadcasting landscape.
In summary, the new carriage deal between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group marks a significant step for both the companies and sports fans. By restoring access to Bally Sports channels, they ensure a broader audience can enjoy live coverage of local teams, paving the way for a smoother reorganization process for Diamond Sports Group as they navigate through their bankruptcy proceedings.