With the dynamic landscape of sports broadcasting shifting rapidly, the Denver sports scene is undergoing a significant transformation, especially for fans of the NBA’s Denver Nuggets and the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche. In a revolutionary partnership, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) is moving to expand the accessibility of their games by collaborating with Tegna, a broadcast station owner. This comes as more viewers abandon traditional cable packages in favor of modern, on-demand solutions. As the 2023/24 season approaches, local fans can expect a fresh array of viewing options that align with their preferences.
This season marks a pivotal moment for local sports fans. KSE has unleashed a dual strategy aimed at enhancing visibility for both the Nuggets and Avalanche. The partnership with Tegna will result in 20 games for both teams being broadcasted for free via local over-the-air channels, namely 9NEWS and My20. This innovative approach not only addresses the accessibility issues fans have faced but also acknowledges a seismic shift in viewership habits. As the allure of streaming coexists with traditional broadcasting, KSE’s initiative is designed to entice back those who may have felt neglected by the absence of their teams on popular cable services.
Moreover, the impending rollout of Altitude+, a direct-to-consumer streaming service, stands to revolutionize the way fans consume live sports in Denver. For a subscription fee of $19.95 per month, subscribers will gain access to all Avalanche and Nuggets games, bringing the thrill of live sports directly into their homes without the need for cumbersome cable contracts. This initiative perfectly embodies the movement towards more individualized viewing experiences, catering to the evolving desires of today’s audience.
The backdrop to this strategic maneuver has been fraught with challenges, particularly concerning distribution rights. Since 2019, Altitude Sports has been embroiled in a contentious dispute with Comcast, disrupting the viewing options for a substantial segment of the Denver market. Although both parties reached a tentative settlement in March 2023, the aftermath left Comcast customers without Altitude Sports, perpetuating a significant void in sports coverage.
The latest collaboration with Tegna is a calculated move to fill this gap by providing more channels through which fans can follow their teams. KSE Media Ventures’ president, Steve Smith, articulated that this initiative stands not just as a business decision but as a commitment to delivering maximum exposure for the Nuggets and Avalanche. The partnership reflects a broader trend of sports organizations recognizing the necessity of adaptability in their broadcasting strategies.
The trends observed in Denver resonate on a national scale, impacting various franchises across major American sports leagues. The shifting tides of broadcasting—exemplified by the Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks transitioning from Bally Sports to alternative broadcasting avenues—are indicative of a broader industry shift. Teams are increasingly exploring options beyond traditional regional sports networks to regain control over their broadcast rights and connect more directly with fans.
This broadening landscape also reflects a reaction to major challenges facing the industry, such as the bankruptcy of Diamond Sports, which has put considerable pressure on traditional broadcasting models. In this context, regional sports networks are starting to offer more robust streaming opportunities, recognizing the need to stay relevant and accessible. High-profile networks like the YES Network and MSG Networks illustrate a pivot towards joint ventures that incorporate streaming as a viable alternative to standard broadcasts.
As we embark on this new sports season, the implications of these developments stretch far beyond just the Nuggets and Avalanche. They signal a transformative era for how we consume sports, driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer habits. For fans, this presents a golden opportunity to use modern platforms for greater engagement. The growing availability of flexible viewing options aligns with the desires of a fanbase that increasingly prefers personalized and accessible experiences.
Ultimately, the Denver sports community is on the brink of a promising future, one where innovation in broadcasting harmonizes with the deep-seated passion that defines local sports culture. The collaboration between Kroenke Sports & Entertainment and Tegna is not just about airing basketball and hockey games; it reflects a renaissance of how sports entertainment can be experienced in the heart of Denver. With more ways than ever before to watch their teams, fans are poised to engage more fully and enthusiastically than ever.