In a major shake-up for the regional sports broadcasting landscape, the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago White Sox have announced their departure from NBC Sports Chicago to form their own network. This new venture, named the Chicago Sports Network (CHSN), is set to launch in October 2024, coinciding with the expiration of their current contracts with NBC Sports Chicago.
The newly formed CHSN will be a joint effort between the teams and Standard Media Group, with industry veteran Jason Coyle appointed as president. Coyle, who has a rich history in Chicago sports media, emphasized a fan-centric approach in designing the network. The aim is to optimize both in-game and studio production and expand distribution to as many platforms and markets as possible within their rights.
CHSN plans to broadcast over 300 games annually, alongside a variety of complementary programming. The network will operate from prominent studios located at the United Center, home to the Bulls and Blackhawks, and Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the White Sox. This move promises high visibility and engagement for the new network.
The network’s launch in October 2024 is strategically timed with the start of the Bulls’ and Blackhawks’ preseason games. The White Sox will transition to CHSN in 2025 after completing the current season on NBC Sports Chicago. The transition ensures a smooth shift of viewership and maintains fan engagement through the seasons.
Impact on NBC Sports Chicago and NBCUniversal
The departure of these teams marks the end for NBC Sports Chicago, significantly reducing NBCUniversal’s regional sports network (RSN) portfolio to just four remaining markets: Philadelphia, Bay Area, Boston, and California. This follows a trend of teams opting to create their own networks for greater control and revenue.
Previously, NBC Sports Chicago lost the Chicago Cubs, who formed the Marquee Sports Network, which also broadcasts games for the NFL’s Chicago Bears, the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, and the MLR’s Chicago Hounds. NBCUniversal has been gradually scaling back its RSN operations, even excluding them from the lower tiers of Comcast’s pay TV packages.
Future of Regional Sports Networks
The creation of CHSN reflects a broader shift in the sports broadcasting industry, where teams seek more autonomy and direct fan engagement through their own networks. This move allows for tailored content and potentially higher revenue from dedicated fan bases.
Standard Media Group has already secured substantial carriage deals for CHSN, ensuring widespread availability across various platforms. This strategic positioning aims to capture a significant share of the market and deliver comprehensive sports coverage to Chicago fans.
The establishment of the Chicago Sports Network marks a significant evolution in regional sports broadcasting in Chicago. By taking control of their media rights, the Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox are poised to offer more tailored and accessible content for their fans, setting a new standard for sports media in the region. NBC Sports Chicago’s closure, while marking the end of an era, highlights the shifting dynamics and future possibilities within the industry.
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