Fans of the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming NBA season, not only for the on-court action but also for changes in how they will watch their favorite teams. Both franchises are making a significant shift by leaving their regional sports networks owned by Diamond Sports, according to a recent bankruptcy court filing. This move raises questions about where local games will be aired and what this means for fans accustomed to tuning into these channels for live broadcasts.
While the Mavericks and Pelicans have not officially announced new broadcast partners for the upcoming season, reports indicate that both teams have a history of working with local broadcasters to televise their games. The Pelicans are said to have reached a preliminary agreement with Gray Television to broadcast their games this season, expanding on a previous partnership that saw 10 matchups aired on Gray’s local stations. Similarly, the Mavericks, who made an appearance in last season’s NBA Finals, had a 13-game agreement with Tegna’s Dallas-Fort Worth stations. It remains to be seen how these new partnerships will impact the viewing experience for fans and what changes they can expect in terms of coverage and accessibility.
The decision by the Mavericks and Pelicans to move away from Diamond-owned regional sports networks aligns with a broader trend in the sports broadcasting industry. Diamond Sports, which has been grappling with financial challenges and bankruptcy proceedings for the past 18 months, has seen several NBA, WNBA, and NHL teams opt for local broadcasters over regional sports networks. This shift underscores the changing landscape of sports media consumption, with teams seeking alternative ways to reach their fan base and maximize exposure for their games.
As part of their terminations from the Diamond-owned networks, the Mavericks and Pelicans are required to make payments totaling $1.3 million and over $297,000, respectively, according to the court filing. These financial transactions underscore the complexities involved in transitioning broadcasting rights and the financial agreements that accompany such decisions. Additionally, Diamond Sports’ entry into new broadcast and streaming rights agreements with the NBA and NHL signifies a restructuring of its business operations as it navigates bankruptcy proceedings. These deals are contingent on court approval, highlighting the regulatory scrutiny that accompanies major changes in the broadcasting industry.
The evolving landscape of sports broadcasting, marked by the decline of cable and the rise of streaming services, presents both challenges and opportunities for companies like Diamond Sports. Despite efforts to launch a sports-only streaming service for some teams, the company’s substantial debt load ultimately led to its bankruptcy filing. Moving forward, Diamond faces pressure to develop a sustainable business plan that aligns with the changing preferences of viewers and the demands of the modern media landscape.
As the NBA and NHL seasons approach, the departure of the Mavericks and Pelicans from Diamond-owned networks signals a broader shift in how local games are broadcast and consumed by fans. The transition to local broadcasters represents a new chapter for these franchises, offering fans a fresh perspective on game coverage and potentially expanding the reach of their respective teams. While challenges remain for companies like Diamond Sports, the changing dynamics of sports media present opportunities for innovation and adaptation in an ever-evolving industry.