In a significant development for sports broadcasting, Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a new carriage deal, putting an end to a prolonged blackout of Bally Sports channels for Comcast customers. This resolution promises to restore local sports broadcasts to fans at the beginning of August, reversing months of frustration for loyal viewers.
The prolonged blackout began in May when Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, pulled their channels off the air. This left many Comcast customers—particularly subscribers of the "Ultimate TV" package—without access to live local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. The disruption was especially impactful in key markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami, where Comcast has a strong presence.
Diamond Sports Group's Battle with Bankruptcy
Diamond Sports Group has been navigating a complex Chapter 11 bankruptcy process for the past 16 months. Despite these financial difficulties, the company has continued to manage linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams. Securing new agreements with distributors like Comcast is a critical component of their restructuring strategy.
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, expressed optimism about 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."
Returning Sports to Fans
This renewed access means that fans of local teams will be able to catch their favorite games once again. Xfinity customers subscribed to the "Ultimate TV" package will have access to a broad array of live sports, including MLB, NBA, and NHL games. Bally Sports' streaming app also provides an in-market viewing option for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers. However, fans of the Braves and Twins will need to tune into the broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
For those interested in upgrading, Xfinity customers have until August 30 to subscribe to the "Ultimate TV" package, which includes a free three-month trial period before transitioning to a cost of $20 per month.
Looking Toward the Future
With the carriage deal solidified, Diamond Sports Group is now focused on finalizing agreements with the NHL and NBA. Preschlack indicated the urgency of these negotiations, particularly with the basketball and hockey seasons looming. "With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," he said.
These agreements are essential for Diamond Sports Group as they seek to present a reorganization plan to the court. Establishing stable distribution channels and securing content rights are pivotal steps in this intricate process. Preschlack underscored the importance of timely resolutions, noting, "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."
As fans prepare for the return of their beloved local sports broadcasts, the new carriage deal with Comcast marks a hopeful chapter for Diamond Sports Group. This agreement not only rekindles the connection between viewers and their local teams but also propels the company forward in its quest for financial stability and operational success.
Stay tuned for further updates as Diamond Sports Group continues to navigate its reorganization and aims to secure long-term agreements that can satisfy sports enthusiasts nationwide.