From CNBC: 2024-08-26 14:21:05

Fans of both the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans are anticipating new ways to watch local games this upcoming NBA season as both teams exit their regional sports networks owned by Diamond Sports. While neither franchise has announced where their games will be aired, the Pelicans have reportedly reached an agreement with Gray Television to broadcast games this season.

Last season, the Pelicans aired 10 games and the Mavericks entered a 13-game agreement with Tegna’s Dallas-Fort Worth stations. Both teams are moving their games from their Diamond-owned regional sports networks, under the Bally Sports brand, as Diamond Sports tries to navigate out of bankruptcy.

Diamond Sports will receive payments from the Mavericks and Pelicans as part of the terminations, totaling over $1.5 million. Meanwhile, Diamond is entering broadcast and streaming rights agreements with the NBA and NHL for the upcoming season as part of its bankruptcy process, subject to court approval.

Despite facing financial challenges, Diamond Sports recently reached a deal to return its networks to Comcast’s cable TV customers, marking a significant milestone for the company. The NBA and NHL seasons are approaching, putting pressure on Diamond to prove a viable business plan as it navigates through bankruptcy protection.



Read more at CNBC: Mavericks, Pelicans games leave local networks amid Diamond bankruptcy