Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have forged a new carriage agreement, concluding a lengthy blackout period of Bally Sports channels for Comcast subscribers. This resolution brings an end to months of frustration for fans eager to watch their local teams. Starting at the beginning of August, they will once again have access to these eagerly awaited broadcasts.
Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, has been navigating bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11 for the past 16 months. In a significant move during this period, the group pulled their channels off the air in early May, leaving many viewers in limbo. However, this new agreement with Comcast, as noted by Diamond Sports Group CEO David Preschlack, represents a "critical step forward in our restructuring effort."
Impact on Sports Fans
For Comcast customers, particularly those subscribed to Xfinity's "Ultimate TV" package, this new deal comes as a welcome relief. Subscribers will now have the chance to watch live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. The importance of this development is particularly evident in markets where Comcast has a significant presence, such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami.
Fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers will find an additional benefit in Bally Sports' streaming app, which offers an in-market viewing option. Conversely, followers of the Braves and Twins will need to tune into the broadcast channels for their local game coverage. The renewed access underscores Diamond Sports Group's commitment to delivering sports content to dedicated fans, evident in Preschlack's statement, "We are pleased that fans will again be able to access broadcasts of their local teams through Xfinity."
Subscription Details and Deadlines
Current Xfinity customers have until August 30 to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package if they are looking to catch their favorite teams in action. This package comes with a free three-month trial period, providing ample opportunity for fans to decide if the additional $20 per month cost is worth the investment in the long run.
Future Plans and League Agreements
As Diamond Sports Group continues to navigate through its bankruptcy reorganization, reaching this agreement with Comcast, its third largest distributor, marks a notable milestone. Preschlack highlighted the focus on resolving ongoing negotiations with major sports leagues, particularly the NHL and NBA, stating, "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA."
With the basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching, Diamond Sports Group recognizes the pressing nature of these negotiations. "We are mindful that time is of the essence," Preschlack emphasized, underlining the urgency of completing agreements with team and league partners to present a reorganization plan to the court.
Currently, Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, showcasing the significance of finalizing these crucial agreements to ensure continuous and comprehensive coverage for sports fans across the nation.
This renewed partnership between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group marks a positive turn in a challenging period for both companies and the fans they serve. Through strategic restructuring and dedicated efforts to finalize league agreements, Diamond Sports Group is poised to deliver uninterrupted sports entertainment, a testament to their resilience and commitment to sports enthusiasts.