Bally Sports is a major sports network brand offering live games, in-depth analysis, and original programming from your favorite teams. Owned by Diamond Sports Group, Bally Sports provides telecasts of Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), National Hockey League (NHL), and numerous college sports events. It operates through regional channels as several individual localized networks.
What is YouTube TV?
YouTube TV is a subscription-based streaming service that delivers live television channels, including sports, news, and entertainment, without the need for a traditional cable box. It includes a cloud DVR feature, making it a popular choice for cord-cutters seeking live sports and other content.
Bally Sports vs. YouTube TV — What to Look for in the Relationship
Dealing with Streaming
Fans in Houston and other regions have been seeking alternative ways to stream Astros and Rockets games after Bally Sports channels were pulled from YouTube TV in 2020 due to contract disputes. Bally Sports was previously available on YouTube TV but was removed because of disagreements over carriage fees.
Why Bally Sports Left YouTube TV
The dispute centered around financial disagreements, specifically the fees Bally Sports was asking for, which YouTube TV deemed too high. As a result, Bally Sports content disappeared from the platform.
How to Stream Bally Sports Without YouTube TV
If you’ve lost access to Bally Sports on YouTube TV, there are several alternatives to continue enjoying your favorite sports:
Bally Sports+
This is a direct-to-consumer streaming service that provides live access to Bally Sports channels.
Other Live Streaming Services
Platforms like DirecTV Stream include Bally Sports channels in their lineup.
Mobile Apps
The Bally Sports app allows authenticated pay-TV subscribers to stream live content.
A Possible Comeback
Despite the contrast in their current positions, there is a possibility that Bally Sports and YouTube TV may renegotiate in the future. As virtual MVPDs (multichannel video programming distributors) become primary drivers for regional and national sports networks, the growing demand for live sports content might encourage both parties to find common ground.
YouTube TV Sports Alternatives Apart from Bally Sports
If you’re a YouTube TV subscriber and need sports content beyond Bally Sports, here are some excellent alternatives:
- ESPN and ESPN+: Offers extensive national sports coverage.
- NBC Sports: Ideal for NHL, EPL, and more.
- CBS Sports: A great choice for NFL and NCAA Basketball fans.
- Fox Sports: Provides diverse sports coverage.
YouTube TV once offered regional sports network Bally Sports, but for now, subscribers no longer have access due to a dispute between the two companies over carriage fees. Out-of-market sports fans can subscribe instead to Bally Sports+, or DirecTV Stream etc. MLB, NBA, NHL and college sports games as well as exclusive content from Bally Sports While Bally Sports channels are missing, YouTube TV still offers plenty of live streaming sports with ESPN, NBC Sports and more.
Frequent Questions
What is wrong with Bally Sports on YouTube TV?
Bally Sports is currently not available on YouTube TV due to unresolved issues over carriage fees between the two companies.
How Much Does Bally Sports+ Cost?
Bally Sports+ costs $19.99 per month or $189.99 annually. Check listings as prices may vary.
Is Bally Sports free to watch?
No, Bally Sports is only available via a subscription through a cable provider, Bally Sports+, or an affiliated streaming service.
Will Bally Sports return to YouTube TV?
The possibility depends on future negotiations between Bally Sports and YouTube TV.
The streaming and sports broadcasting landscape is continuously evolving. Whether fans find alternatives or wait for potential reconciliations between Bally Sports and YouTube TV, it’s easier than ever to stay connected to live sports through various platforms.