In a significant development for sports fans, Comcast and Diamond Sports Group have reached a new carriage deal, bringing an end to a months-long blackout of Bally Sports channels. This resolution is a welcome relief for Comcast customers who can now look forward to watching their favorite local teams live once again. The deal will restore access to these channels starting at the beginning of August.
Back on the Air
Bally Sports channels went dark at the start of May when Diamond Sports Group, which owns 15 regional sports networks under the Bally Sports banner, pulled their channels off the air. This disruption primarily affected subscribers of Comcast’s "Ultimate TV" package, who depend on these channels for local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. The blackout left fans in major markets such as Atlanta, Minnesota, Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, and Miami without access to local sports broadcasts.
Diamond Sports Group's Financial Struggles
The new agreement is a critical milestone for Diamond Sports Group, which has been navigating bankruptcy proceedings under Chapter 11 for the past 16 months. David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, described the deal as a significant step forward in their restructuring efforts, highlighting the importance of restoring broadcasts for local sports fans.
"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 Preschlack.
Opportunities for Sports Fans
The restoration of Bally Sports channels provides a variety of viewing options for sports fans. Xfinity customers subscribing to the "Ultimate TV" package will once again be able to watch live, local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. Meanwhile, the Bally Sports streaming app offers in-market viewing for fans of the Marlins, Rays, Royals, and Tigers. However, fans of the Braves and Twins will need to rely on broadcast channels for their local game coverage.
Those who have not yet upgraded to the "Ultimate TV" package have until August 30 to do so. New subscribers will enjoy a free three-month trial period, after which the package costs an additional $20 per month.
Looking Ahead
With the carriage deal secured, Diamond Sports Group's focus now shifts to finalizing agreements with the NHL and resolving ongoing negotiations with the NBA. Preschlack emphasized the urgency of these matters, with the basketball and hockey seasons fast approaching.
"With certainty on our distribution, we are focused on finalizing an agreement with the NHL and resolving our ongoing negotiations with the NBA," Preschlack explained. "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."
A Path to Reorganization
As Diamond Sports Group works to complete these agreements, the company aims to present a reorganization plan to the court, a crucial step in its efforts to emerge from bankruptcy. Currently, Diamond Sports Group holds linear rights to 12 Major League Baseball teams, and securing deals with the other major sports leagues will be fundamental to its restructuring strategy.
Overall, the new carriage deal with Comcast represents a positive development for all parties involved—providing relief to frustrated fans, reinforcing Diamond Sports Group's restructuring initiatives, and enhancing Comcast's sports offerings. As the upcoming MLB, NBA, and NHL seasons approach, the renewed availability of Bally Sports channels will undoubtedly be welcomed by sports enthusiasts across the country.