Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a significant new carriage agreement, bringing relief to sports fans who faced a blackout of Bally Sports channels that lasted for months. As of the beginning of August, fans will once again have the opportunity to watch their favorite local teams live on TV and through digital platforms, marking an end to the prolonged absence of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers.
Restoration of Bally Sports Channels
Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, had pulled their channels off the air in May. This decision came amidst the company's Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, which have spanned 16 months. The new deal with Comcast, the third largest distributor for the channel, is a critical advancement in Diamond Sports Group's restructuring process.
"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. The move comes just in time for the reintroduction of live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games, which will be accessible to Xfinity customers, particularly those who subscribe to the “Ultimate TV” package.
Offerings and Market Focus
Comcast holds a robust presence in various markets, including Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami. Xfinity subscribers in these regions can look forward to a diverse array of live sports action once again. Moreover, the Bally Sports streaming app will provide in-market viewing options for Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers fans, enhancing the accessibility of their favorite sports content.
However, Braves and Twins fans will need to turn to the traditional broadcast channels for their local game coverage as the streaming app does not cover these teams. Additionally, Xfinity customers have until August 30 to upgrade to the “Ultimate TV” package, which offers a free three-month trial period. After the trial, this package will cost an extra $20 per month.
Diamond Sports Group’s Path Forward
While Diamond Sports Group currently holds linear rights to broadcast games for 12 Major League Baseball teams, the company is also actively working to secure agreements with other major leagues. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," Preschlack noted, highlighting the urgency given the imminent basketball and hockey seasons.
The company aims to present a comprehensive plan of reorganization to the court, pending the conclusion of these agreements. "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 added.
This deal not only marks a significant milestone in Diamond Sports Group's efforts to stabilize and reorganize but also ensures that sports fans are not left in the dark just as critical seasons approach. The carriage agreement promises to bring much-needed normalcy back to the viewing habits of dedicated sports viewers, reaffirming Comcast and Diamond Sports Group’s commitment to delivering top-tier sports content to fans nationwide.