Amazon Secures Bally Sports RSN Streaming

In a bid to bounce back from bankruptcy, Diamond Sports, parent company of Bally Sports RSNs, struck a deal in January that ropes in Amazon as a minority investor. This pact thrusts Amazon into the spotlight as the new hub for Bally Sports streaming services, catering to direct-to-consumer packages.

David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports, expressed gratitude for Amazon’s backing and creditor support, emphasizing the company’s commitment to emerge from bankruptcy stronger. The focus now is on implementing the restructuring plan to benefit stakeholders and millions of sports enthusiasts.

Under the agreement, Americans gain access to live MLB, NBA, and NHL games via Amazon’s Prime Video channels, limited to markets where these teams operate.

But when can viewers expect to catch Bally Sports games on Amazon’s platform? According to Bally Sports’ website, the commencement of streaming hinges on final approval. Once greenlit, Bally Sports+ will be up for grabs on Amazon’s Prime Video Channel platform for an extra fee, leaving existing pay TV subscribers unaffected.

In a twofold victory, Diamond Sports also clinched a deal to retain Bally Sports’ naming rights until the end of the 2024 MLB season at no charge. However, post-2024, the partnership dissolves, spelling an end to the Bally Sports moniker.

The deal garnered overwhelming support, with 85% of first lien debt holders, over 50% of second lien debt holders, and more than 66% of unsecured bondholders rallying behind it. Nonetheless, judicial approval remains pending.

While lacking in fireworks, this strategic maneuver signifies a pivotal moment for both Diamond Sports and Amazon, reshaping the landscape of sports streaming. With Amazon’s backing, Diamond Sports is poised to revolutionize the viewing experience, offering unparalleled access to premium sports content and enhancing consumer choice.