The Sinclair Broadcast Group subsidiary that contains the Bally Sports regional sports networks formerly owned by FOX is preparing for the late September launch of a direct-to-consumer streaming service that includes all 19 Bally Sports RSN brands.
How MVPDs respond could be intriguing, as this gives audiences yet another way to consume channels once an important component for cable TV service providers.
Coming September 26 is Bally Sports+, and Sinclair CEO Chris Ripley calls the rollout “a significant step for the RSN industry.”
Indeed, this new way to watch hometown teams not only encroaches on MVPDs such as Spectrum and Xfinity, but also DirecTV and DISH.
On that note, Ripley commented, “We view Bally Sports+ as a great complement to the incredible value our distribution partners provide our linear networks; and with both models, we are uniquely positioned to help our team partners grow their fan bases for years to come.”
Following the June introductory launch of Bally Sports+ in five regions (Bally Sports Detroit, Bally Sports Kansas City, Bally Sports Florida, Bally Sports Sun and Bally Sports Wisconsin), today’s announcement means fans residing in regions of the remaining portfolio of Bally Sports RSNs — Bally Sports Arizona, Bally Sports Great Lakes, Bally Sports Indiana, Bally Sports Midwest, Bally Sports New Orleans, Bally Sports North, Bally Sports Ohio, Bally Sports Oklahoma, Bally Sports San Diego, Bally Sports SoCal, Bally Sports South, Bally Sports Southeast, Bally Sports Southwest and Bally Sports West — will have a new option for watching their favorite local teams.
Michael Schneider, Chief Operating Officer and GM of Bally Sports+, said, “Launching a streaming service like Bally Sports+ across 19 different regions, all with unique content offerings, is an unprecedented undertaking. This full introduction marks a key moment in the evolution of RSNs, but it is also a great moment for local fans who now have another viewing option for their favorite teams.”
It’s also a statement that, in an environment where apps matter, the future could see apps usurp cable television channels altogether.
Bally Sports+ will be available to subscribers at $19.99 per month, or $189.99 per year, and includes the option for a seven-day free trial. Additional pricing options will be released when the service launches.
