Amazon Aiming To Score Big: Eyeing Entry Into Regional Sports Broadcasting Arena!

January 19, 2024

There’s good news for Harlem sports fans. There’s a proposed agreement that would ensure video coverage of local and regional sporting events.

While ESPN and the major TV networks cover the top national games, regional sports networks provide broadcasts of local and regional games.

Lately, however, those regional networks have struggled.

Under a proposed agreement, Amazon will partner with Diamond Sports as it emerges from Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Diamond owns 18 regional sports networks covering 37 pro teams in Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), and the National Hockey League (NHL). Some networks also cover local collegiate games in some markets.

What’s in it for Amazon? Plenty. 

Under the agreement, which is subject to approval by the bankruptcy court, the regional sports networks would be accessible through Amazon Prime – if viewers are members.

Currently, most regional sports networks are available through cable TV packages. Amazon may hope the agreement will boost Prime membership.


Under the proposed agreement, Amazon would take a small stake in Diamond Sports and sign a contract to carry regional sports content.

“Sports fans can watch their local teams …”

Sports fans can watch their local teams on Prime channels where Diamond holds the rights.

Cable providers, meanwhile, will also have access.

While the agreement was negotiated with Diamond’s creditors, the professional sports leagues are just now getting a look at the details.

Lawyers representing MLB and the NBA say they are still going over the agreement, especially the fine print.

However, there may be a strong incentive to sign off on the agreement since the alternative could be costly.

Last season MLB had to provide local coverage of the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres after Diamond was financially unable to do it.

Photo credit: Bball Harlem 2024. Tisdale Studio.


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
We're your source for local coverage, we count on your support. SUPPORT US!
Your support is crucial in maintaining a healthy democracy and quality journalism. With your contribution, we can continue to provide engaging news and free access to all.
accepted credit cards

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles