SOUTHPORT, Conn. — A significant transformation is underway as the channels operated by Diamond Sports Group are set to be rebranded as the FanDuel Sports Network. This decision, announced on Friday, comes amidst Diamond’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings. Since the commencement of the Major League Baseball season in 2021, Diamond’s channels have carried the Bally Sports brand. The rebranding will take effect on October 21.
Details regarding the financial aspects of this agreement have not been disclosed. Currently, Diamond Sports is undergoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases in the Southern District of Texas, following its filing for financial protection back in March 2023. Reports from the previous year indicated that the company is strained with debts amounting to $8.67 billion.
The Bally Sports regional networks are vital in broadcasting games for a variety of sports teams, including eight in Major League Baseball, eight in the NFL, and 13 in the NBA. Beginning next week, the 16 regional sports channels owned by Diamond will be officially transitioned to the FanDuel Sports Network brand.
FanDuel TV, known for its array of programming like the “Up & Adams” show, which is hosted by Kay Adams, will also feature various betting shows along with content focused on horse racing and Euroleague basketball across Diamond’s regional sports networks. David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond, emphasized that this collaboration is poised to enhance the fan experience and provide increased value for their partners in teams, leagues, and distribution channels.
Mike Raffensperger, President of Sports at FanDuel, highlighted that this partnership will prominently place the FanDuel brand in front of a vast audience through the nation’s largest collection of regional sports networks, expanding their footprint in the competitive sports broadcasting landscape.