Comcast customers can finally rejoice as the months-long blackout of Bally Sports channels is set to come to an end. The resolution comes after a new carriage deal was struck between Comcast and Diamond Sports Group, the owner of the regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner. Starting on Thursday, the beginning of August, fans will have the opportunity to view their favorite local teams once again.
Diamond Sports Group, which has been navigating bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11 for the past 16 months, owns 15 regional sports networks. The company had pulled their channels off the air at the start of May, a move that disappointed many avid sports followers. However, with the new agreement in place, Xfinity customers subscribing to the "Ultimate TV" package can once again catch live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games.
Return of Local Games
The return of Bally Sports channels is particularly significant for fans in markets where Comcast has a strong presence, such as those supporting the Atlanta Braves, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers, Kansas City Royals, Tampa Bay Rays, and Miami Marlins. For fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers, Bally Sports' streaming app provides an additional in-market viewing option. Unfortunately, this is not the case for Braves and Twins supporters, who will need to stick with the broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
The "Ultimate TV" package is a key part of this new deal. Xfinity customers have until August 30 to upgrade to the "Ultimate TV" package, and doing so will grant them a free three-month trial period. Post-trial, the package will cost an additional $20 per month, a reasonable fee for avid sports fans wanting to stay connected to their teams.
Navigating Challenges
David Preschlack, the CEO of Diamond Sports Group, expressed optimism about the new arrangement. "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," he noted. This sentiment indicates the importance of the deal not just for the fans, but also for the company's restructuring efforts amid its bankruptcy proceedings.
Preschlack also highlighted that the company is making progress on other crucial negotiations. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," he shared. This is particularly pertinent as both basketball and hockey seasons are 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 added.
Looking Forward
The timeline for these negotiations is crucial as the sports seasons draw near. Diamond's ability to secure digital-rights deals with the NBA and NHL will play a significant role in its future operations and outreach. Currently, the company holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, indicating a strong presence in the sports broadcasting field.
The deal with Comcast not only relieves the immediate pressure on fans but also demonstrates resilience from Diamond Sports Group during their restructuring phase. As the company aims to finalize its agreements with major sports leagues, fans can look forward to uninterrupted sports entertainment. The new carriage agreement marks a pivotal step in Diamond's journey towards stabilizing its operations and continuing to provide high-quality sports coverage to fans across various markets.