In a major development for sports fans, Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have come to terms on a new carriage agreement, putting an end to a contentious blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers. As a result, fans will once again be able to enjoy broadcasts of their favorite local teams starting at the beginning of August.
Restoring Access for Fans
The newly inked deal marks a significant milestone for both companies, as it restores access to a wide array of sports content just in time for some of the most critical parts of the sports calendar. Comcast's Xfinity customers, particularly those subscribing to the “Ultimate TV” package, will soon have the ability to watch live, local Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), and National Hockey League (NHL) games once more.
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, expressed enthusiasm about the agreement, stating, "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."
Background and Impact
Earlier this year, in what appeared to be a drastic move amid financial strain, Diamond Sports Group pulled their channels off the air starting in May. This decision left many fans without access to their regional sports networks, creating widespread frustration and disappointment. The agreement with Comcast now effectively ends this months-long blackout, offering a much-needed resolution for fans, especially in key markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami.
Subscribers to the "Ultimate TV" package can look forward to a three-month trial period following by an additional $20 per month fee if they choose to continue with the package. However, they must upgrade by August 30 to take advantage of this offer.
Reorganization Amid Bankruptcy
The renewed carriage deal comes at a crucial time for Diamond Sports Group, which has been navigating Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings for the past 16 months. Preschlack underscored the importance of the Comcast deal for the company's ongoing restructuring efforts. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," he noted. Diamond Sports Group aims to present a plan of reorganization to the court once these critical agreements are in place.
As of now, Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights to 12 MLB teams and operates 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner. The company's streaming app provides in-market viewing options for fans of the Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, and Detroit Tigers, ensuring they won’t miss out on any home games. However, Braves and Twins fans need to rely on broadcast channels for local game coverage.
A Look Ahead
Looking ahead, the focus for Diamond Sports Group will be on solidifying agreements with the NHL and NBA, both of which have seasons fast approaching. "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," Preschlack emphasized.
This renewed carriage deal with Comcast not only restores vital sports content for fans but also signifies an essential step for Diamond Sports Group in their effort to emerge from bankruptcy and continue delivering the sports coverage their audience demands.