Atlanta Braves fans could soon have a new way to watch their team, and it might come bundled with games from other Southeastern franchises. The Braves are actively exploring a direct-to-distributor model for their local broadcasts, a move that could lead to the launch of a regional sports network (RSN) encompassing the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA, the Memphis Grizzlies, and the Nashville Predators of the NHL. This potential shift comes as traditional sports broadcasting faces increasing uncertainty.
The team is currently in discussions with major cable and streaming providers, including Comcast, Charter, DIRECTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu, according to multiple sources. This new approach aims to secure a more stable broadcasting future for the Braves and potentially offer a comprehensive sports package to fans in the region. In the short term, the Braves are partnering with Gray Media to broadcast 15 spring training games across 26 Southern markets, including Atlanta’s Peachtree TV, as they develop a longer-term strategy.
Broadcast Landscape in Flux
The move comes at a critical time for regional sports networks. Main Street Sports Group’s FanDuel Sports Networks, which currently carries games for the Hawks, Grizzlies, and Predators, is facing a potential shutdown. Creditors could force liquidation before the end of the current season if the company doesn’t receive a last-minute financial injection, according to reports. This leaves the three teams searching for permanent broadcast homes beginning next season.
While the Braves’ network presents an emerging option, the path isn’t straightforward. Sources indicate the Hawks are likewise pursuing a separate distribution deal with Gray Media and Peachtree TV. The NBA has reportedly advised the Hawks and Grizzlies against entering into long-term broadcast agreements, potentially limiting deals to one or two years as the league explores creating a centralized streaming RSN, potentially through platforms like YouTube, Amazon, DAZN, or others, by the 2027-28 season.
Predators’ Position and Liberty Media Ties
The Nashville Predators, but, have not yet engaged in discussions with the Braves regarding the potential RSN. Bill Wickett, CMO of the Predators, confirmed the team has not spoken to the Braves about being part of the prospective network. The Hawks declined to comment, and the Braves and Grizzlies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Despite the lack of direct talks, a connection exists between the Predators’ ownership and the Braves. Predators owner Bill Haslam is believed to have ties to Liberty Media, the company that owns the Atlanta Braves, potentially opening a door for future collaboration.
Braves’ Proactive Approach
The Braves are moving forward with their plans, having already begun hiring sales personnel for the new network. The team intends to launch the network in time for the regular season, regardless of whether the Hawks, Grizzlies, and Predators ultimately join the venture. This proactive approach reflects a broader trend in the sports industry, as teams seek greater control over their media rights and revenue streams amid declining viewership on traditional cable networks.
The potential for a multi-team RSN highlights the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting. As cord-cutting continues and streaming services gain prominence, teams are exploring new ways to reach fans and secure their financial future. The Braves’ initiative could serve as a model for other franchises facing similar challenges.
What remains to be seen is whether the Hawks, Grizzlies, and Predators will align with the Braves’ vision, and how the NBA’s centralized streaming plans will impact the long-term broadcasting landscape. The coming months will be crucial as these teams navigate a rapidly changing media environment.
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