Fans of the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans are in for a change as both teams are set to leave their regional sports networks owned by Diamond Sports. This shift comes at a crucial time as the NBA season is around the corner, with both franchises yet to announce where their local games will be aired. Historically, both teams have had their games broadcasted by local broadcasters, but this upcoming season brings a new chapter in their broadcasting journey.
The New Orleans Pelicans have reportedly reached an agreement with Gray Television to broadcast their games this season, although no official confirmation has been made by either party. This move follows a season where the Pelicans aired 10 of their matchups on Gray’s local stations, indicating a growing partnership between the two. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks, who made it to the NBA Finals last season, had a 13-game agreement with Tegna’s Dallas-Fort Worth stations. However, details on who will broadcast their local games this season remain undisclosed.
The decision by the Mavericks and Pelicans to part ways with Diamond-owned regional sports networks reflects a larger trend in the industry. With the decline of cable TV, companies like Diamond Sports have faced financial struggles, leading to bankruptcy filings. Despite efforts to launch sports-only streaming services, the burden of debt has proven too heavy to sustain operations. As a result, teams are seeking alternative broadcasting partners to ensure their games reach audiences effectively.
As part of the terminations with Diamond Sports, the Mavericks and Pelicans are set to repay substantial amounts, totaling over $1.5 million. These transactions are part of the bankruptcy process that Diamond Sports has been navigating for the past 18 months. The company’s agreements with the NBA and NHL for broadcast and streaming rights are pending court approval, marking a significant step towards resolving its financial challenges. Diamond Sports CEO, David Preschlack, expressed gratitude for the partnerships with the leagues, emphasizing the importance of these deals in the company’s path out of bankruptcy protection.
Looking ahead, Diamond Sports faces the task of devising a viable business plan to secure its future in the changing landscape of sports broadcasting. With pressure mounting to meet rights payments and adapt to evolving viewer preferences, the company must innovate and collaborate to stay competitive. The recent agreement to return networks to Comcast’s cable TV customers indicates a step in the right direction, but sustained efforts will be essential to ensure long-term success.
The shift in local NBA games broadcasts for the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans highlights the broader challenges facing the sports broadcasting industry. As teams seek new partnerships and platforms to reach fans, companies like Diamond Sports must adapt to survive in an increasingly digital and competitive environment. The upcoming season will be a critical test for all stakeholders involved, with opportunities for innovation and growth amidst the evolving landscape of sports media.