The Denver sports scene is undergoing a notable transformation this season, particularly for ardent followers of the NBA’s Denver Nuggets and the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche. Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, a significant player in the sports industry, is stepping up to address the modern viewer’s needs. With the rise of digital consumption, this partnership with Tegna, a broadcast station owner, signifies a shift in how fans can engage with their teams. The launch of a direct-to-consumer streaming service further marks a turning point in the accessibility of live sports broadcasts.
In a bid to cater to a shifting audience that is increasingly eschewing traditional cable packages, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment is making bold moves. By teaming up with Tegna, they’ve secured a platform for broadcasting 20 games each for the Nuggets and Avalanche over the air. Stations such as 9NEWS and My20 will showcase these games, making it easier for local fans to tune in without the need for a cable subscription. This decision reflects an industry-wide trend as both the NHL and NBA adapt to changing viewer preferences, focusing on broader accessibility rather than sticking strictly to exclusive cable partnerships.
The introduction of Altitude+, a direct-to-consumer streaming service, is another critical development in this landscape. With a subscription fee of $19.95 per month, this platform allows viewers within the Denver media market to watch all games for both franchises. This model not only meets the immediate demands of fans looking for flexible viewing options but also represents a strategic effort to regain audiences lost due to previous distribution struggles.
While this partnership seems promising, challenges remain. The ongoing absence of Altitude Sports on Comcast and Dish Network since a fallout in 2019 has left many fans frustrated. These platforms encompass a significant portion of the Denver market, and the lack of access has undoubtedly impacted game viewership. The recent lawsuit between Altitude Sports and Comcast highlighted the complexities of sports broadcasting rights. Even with a settlement reached in March 2023, the essential restoration of Altitude Sports on Comcast remains unresolved, leaving fans in a precarious position.
However, the collaboration with Tegna may bridge this gap. By diversifying their distribution strategy, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment aims to provide fans with reliable access to live games. Industry executives, including Steve Smith, have recognized the shift towards maximized exposure for both teams as a pivotal factor in this initiative. This commitment to accessibility is laudable and represents an understanding of the importance of fan engagement in contemporary sports.
The recent trends suggest a broader reevaluation of how sports content is delivered. The bankruptcy of Diamond Sports and the challenges faced by regional sports networks across the country have prompted teams to abandon traditional models in favor of more modern solutions. Several franchises have opted for streaming deals to ensure their games remain available to fans. For instance, the Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks are aligning with new streaming services like Victory+ for game broadcasts, indicating a significant shift away from reliance on regional networks.
The choices made by the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans to partner with local over-the-air broadcasters further exemplify this movement. It highlights a crucial pivot for professional teams that previously relied on established networks for their broadcasts. Such evolution underscores an urgent need for teams to adapt to an audience that increasingly favors streaming platforms over traditional cable.
Despite these exciting advancements, it’s essential to acknowledge the financial intricacies involved in transitioning to new broadcasting methods. Regional sports networks often depend on lucrative pay TV contracts that form the backbone of their revenue streams. As teams explore streaming options, they face the challenge of not undermining existing agreements that help maintain the financial framework supporting the broadcasting of their games.
The pricing strategies adopted for new streaming packages reflect the necessity of preserving harmony with pay TV distributors. This delicate balance will dictate the success of new offerings like Altitude+ and others that emerge in the future. Both teams and networks must strategize carefully to cater to shifting viewer habits without jeopardizing their financial viability.
The landscape of sports broadcasting is undeniably evolving, and for Denver’s Nuggets and Avalanche fans, the arrival of Tegna and Altitude+ signifies a new chapter in accessibility and engagement. As the industry continues to navigate this transformative period, stakeholders must remain agile, responding to viewer preferences while ensuring fiscal responsibility in an ever-changing arena.