The Arizona Coyotes have made a significant move by securing a four-year broadcast agreement with Scripps Sports. With this deal, the Coyotes will become the second NHL team to offer over-the-air game broadcasts, following in the footsteps of the Vegas Golden Knights. The partnership aims to reach approximately 3 million viewers in Arizona and Utah, expanding the team’s access to fans and attracting new ones. This decision comes shortly after Diamond Sports Net Arizona terminated its telecast rights agreement with the Coyotes, providing an opportunity for the team to explore alternative broadcasting options.
Coyotes President and CEO Xavier Gutierrez acknowledged the challenges associated with the regional sports model. The previous model had limitations in terms of the number of households that could access Coyotes games. This contradicted the team’s goal of serving its fan base and attracting new followers. By transitioning to a new broadcasting partner, the Coyotes hope to overcome this challenge and maximize their reach.
Diamond Sports Net Arizona, currently under Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, decided to terminate its telecast rights agreement with the Coyotes. This move allowed the franchise to seek alternative options for broadcasting their games. The company’s financial filing revealed an enormous debt of $8.67 billion, ultimately leading to the dissolution of their agreement with the team. The Coyotes’ decision to find new broadcasting partners aligns with their counterparts in the region, such as the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks, who have also pursued alternative broadcasting arrangements.
The majority of Coyotes games will now be available to viewers through the Antenna TV network on KNXV.2, channel 15.2, with the use of an antenna. Additionally, Cox cable subscribers will have access to the games. This shift ensures that fans can continue to enjoy the Coyotes’ broadcasts, including pregame and postgame coverage. However, recognizing the changing landscape of media consumption, the team is also exploring a streaming option for fans to watch their games.
Gutierrez expressed concern over the uncertainty in the current media landscape, particularly with regards to broadcasting agreements. Following the Phoenix Suns’ departure from Bally Sports Arizona and the Arizona Diamondbacks taking over their own broadcasts, the Coyotes found themselves as the last team under contract with Bally. This situation raised concerns about the team’s visibility within the local market. However, with the new deal in place, those worries have been alleviated, ensuring consistent game coverage.
The Arizona Coyotes have made a strategic decision by partnering with Scripps Sports for their broadcast needs. By offering over-the-air game broadcasts, the team aims to serve their existing fan base while attracting new supporters. The termination of their agreement with Diamond Sports Net Arizona provided an opportunity to explore alternative broadcasting options, ultimately leading them to Scripps Sports. With the expanded availability of games through the Antenna TV network and Cox cable, fans can continue to enjoy the Coyotes’ broadcasts. Additionally, the team’s effort to develop a streaming option demonstrates their commitment to adapting to the ever-evolving media landscape. As the Coyotes embark on a new season, their partnership with Scripps Sports marks a significant milestone in their broadcasting journey.
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