In a significant advancement for regional sports broadcasting, Amazon is nearing a deal that would allow it to stream a majority of the content from Diamond Sports Group, the parent company of Bally Sports. This agreement, which has been anticipated for several months, could dramatically increase visibility for Bally Sports as it navigates bankruptcy proceedings.
The Details of the Agreement
According to reports, fans may soon be able to subscribe to Amazon Prime Video for around $20 per month to access a variety of regional sports teams. This deal would initially cover 27 teams from the NBA, NHL, and MLB for which Diamond Sports Group holds digital rights. Additionally, Diamond Sports also broadcasts games for seven other MLB teams, although these are currently only available through traditional broadcast methods due to digital rights complications.
Current Status of Diamond Sports Group
As Amazon approaches this agreement, Diamond Sports Group is making strides in its bankruptcy process. During a recent status conference in U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the company received approval for its deals with the NBA and NHL and is targeting November for a hearing on its reorganization plan. However, concerns remain, particularly regarding the MLB’s confidence in Diamond Sports’ ability to continue airing games into 2025.
Amazon’s Expansion into Local Sports
Before this potential deal with Diamond Sports, Amazon has steadily broadened its footprint in local sports streaming. The company has secured rights to broadcast games for teams such as the NHL’s Seattle Kraken and has an existing relationship with MLB’s New York Yankees. This growing portfolio positions Amazon as a key player among the top four major U.S. professional sports leagues.
Challenges for Bally Sports+
Currently, Diamond Sports offers local sports content through its Bally Sports+ streaming service, priced at $19.99 per month. However, this platform has faced significant technical difficulties, which may have limited its audience reach. In contrast, partnering with Amazon, known for its reliable streaming service, could provide a substantial boost in accessibility and viewership for Bally Sports content.
As the sports broadcasting landscape continues to evolve, this deal stands to reshape how fans engage with their favorite teams and leagues across various platforms.