Diamond Sports Nears Naming-Rights Deal Amid Bankruptcy Struggles
MLB, NBA, and NHL express doubts over Diamond's viability as it negotiates with Comcast and rebrands its regional sports networks.
- Diamond Sports Group is close to finalizing a new naming-rights deal for its 18 regional sports networks, likely with FanDuel.
- The company is in Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and faces significant financial challenges, including a projected $46.5 million deficit over the next three months.
- Negotiations with Comcast have stalled, affecting the distribution of sports content, particularly for MLB, NBA, and NHL games.
- MLB, NBA, and NHL have raised concerns about Diamond's ability to continue operations and meet broadcasting commitments for the upcoming seasons.
- A court hearing to confirm Diamond's reorganization plan has been postponed to late July, adding urgency to the company's negotiations and planning.