Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a pivotal new carriage deal that resolves a prolonged blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers. This resolution comes as a significant relief to fans eager to view their favorite local teams, with broadcasts resuming at the beginning of August.
The blackout started in May, when Diamond Sports Group pulled their channels off the air amidst ongoing bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11, which have spanned the past 16 months. Diamond Sports Group, owner of 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, has been diligently working towards restructuring their operations and maintaining their broadcasting commitments.
Impact on Fans
Xfinity customers subscribed to the "Ultimate TV" package will be able to watch live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games once again. The deal is especially significant for markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami, where Comcast has a strong presence. Meanwhile, the Bally Sports streaming app continues to provide in-market viewing options for fans of the Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Kansas City Royals, and Detroit Tigers.
Some fans, however, such as those rooting for the Atlanta Braves and Minnesota Twins, will need to rely on broadcast channels for their local game coverage. Xfinity customers interested in upgrading to the "Ultimate TV" package have until August 30 to do so. The package offers a three-month trial period without charge, after which it costs an additional $20 per month.
CEO's Perspective
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, emphasized the importance of the new 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."
Preschlack highlighted that this deal provides a stable distribution framework, which allows the company to focus on finalizing agreements with other major sports leagues. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," he added.
Future Steps
The CEO acknowledged the time-sensitive nature of these negotiations, particularly with the basketball and hockey seasons on the horizon. "We are mindful that time is of the essence with basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching," Preschlack noted. "Once agreements with our team and league partners are complete, we intend to move expeditiously to present a plan of reorganization to the court."
Currently, Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams and is committed to securing the necessary agreements to continue delivering unparalleled sports content to its viewers. The successful resolution of these negotiations will form the basis of the company's reorganization plan, aiming to stabilize and grow their operations post-bankruptcy.
As these developments unfold, fans will be keenly watching to see how Diamond Sports Group navigates their remaining challenges and what the future holds for Bally Sports networks. For now, the resumption of local sports broadcasts marks a win for both Comcast subscribers and the sports community at large.