Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have successfully reached a new carriage agreement, marking the end of a prolonged blackout for Bally Sports channels. This resolution ensures that Comcast customers can once again access broadcasts of their favorite local teams starting this August.
Months-long Blackout Comes to an End
In the wake of this new agreement, fans who have been yearning to watch their local MLB, NBA, and NHL games will finally see a return to normalcy. The blackout, which began in early May, left many frustrated and eager for a resolution. This new deal means that Xfinity subscribers with the "Ultimate TV" package can tune in live to regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner.
"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.
Navigating Through Bankruptcy
The road to this new agreement has not been without hurdles. Diamond Sports Group has been navigating Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings for the past 16 months. Preschlack and his team have been diligently working to stabilize the company while ensuring ongoing negotiations with their league and team partners are successful.
Despite these challenges, the company has managed to retain linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams and operates 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner. This new carriage deal with Comcast stands as a testament to Diamond Sports Group's resilience and commitment to their audience.
The CEO highlighted the importance of these 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."
Opportunities for Fans
For fans in key markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami, this deal is particularly significant. It allows them to access their local team broadcasts via Xfinity’s platform. The Bally Sports streaming app is also available, providing in-market viewing options for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers.
However, there are some nuances fans need to be aware of. Those who follow teams like the Braves and Twins will need to stick to traditional broadcast channels for their local game coverage, as those are not featured on the Bally Sports streaming app.
Special Offers for Subscribers
Xfinity is sweetening the deal for its customers by offering a free three-month trial period for those who opt to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package. After this period, the package will cost an additional $20 per month. Subscribers have until August 30 to take advantage of this offer, making it an opportune time for fans to enhance their viewing experience without immediate added cost.
Future Plans and Finalization
As Diamond Sports Group moves forward with its plans, the company remains focused on solidifying its agreements with the NHL and NBA. This focus is driven by the impending start of the basketball and hockey seasons, as acknowledged by Preschlack. "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," he added.
This proactive approach ensures that Diamond Sports Group remains a pivotal broadcaster for regional sports, even amid financial restructuring. As they finalize agreements and prepare to submit their reorganization plan, fans can look forward to uninterrupted coverage of their beloved local sports teams.
In conclusion, the new carriage agreement between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group is a beacon of hope for fans who have been eagerly awaiting the return of their local sports broadcasts. With a strategic plan in place and a keen focus on meeting crucial deadlines, Diamond Sports Group is set to navigate its way through financial restructuring while continuing to deliver valuable sports content to its dedicated audience.