CHSN Expands Reach with Comcast Agreement
After a lengthy wait of over eight months, the Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) has finally secured a broader audience in the Chicago metropolitan area through a new agreement with Comcast. The deal was officially announced on Friday following its finalization late Thursday, as revealed by a Comcast representative. Starting Friday morning, CHSN became accessible to subscribers of Comcast’s Ultimate TV package, designated on Channel 200.
Jason Coyle’s Enthusiastic Statement
Jason Coyle, the president of CHSN, expressed his enthusiasm in a statement, welcoming Comcast’s Xfinity TV viewers to a network made specifically for sports enthusiasts in Chicago.
“With more than 300 live games each year from the Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox, coupled with local programming that spotlights Chicago’s pro, college, and high school sports, we offer unmatched coverage tailored to sports fans. This agreement allows us to connect with even more supporters across the city and surrounding areas, solidifying CHSN as the ultimate destination for Chicago sports content around the clock.”
Background and Previous Challenges
CHSN was introduced to the public in October 2024, with the Chicago Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox aiming for broad exposure similar to what they had enjoyed on NBC Sports Chicago— the network they departed from to establish CHSN. However, initially, Comcast did not include CHSN in its offerings; this absence led to a significant decline in viewership for the teams. Reports indicated that the Bulls experienced a staggering 63 percent drop in viewership, while the Blackhawks’ audience fell by 78 percent, as confirmed by Wirtz.
Comments from Danny Wirtz
Danny Wirtz, chairman and CEO of the Blackhawks, described the new partnership as a milestone for fans eager for access to their games.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to reach the largest audience possible,”
he stated on Friday.
“Our supporters have shown incredible patience, and now they’ll finally have the opportunity to enjoy Blackhawks hockey and other exciting CHSN programming, especially as we celebrate our centennial next season.”
Impact of Comcast Agreement
Prior to the agreement with Comcast, CHSN had been available on platforms like DirecTV and Fubo, as well as through a direct-streaming service. However, the absence of Comcast coverage slashed the teams’ reach significantly. Initially, CHSN could be accessed for free via antenna in the Chicago region, but with this new carriage deal, that option will no longer be available, removing free access to the channel for local viewers.
Wirtz emphasized his dissatisfaction with the previous season, calling the lack of TV game availability unacceptable and vowed to work closely with CHSN to improve the situation for the next season.
“As we approach 100 years of hockey, it’s crucial for our fans to see the team,”
he added.
The Road to Agreement
The road to securing a deal with Comcast had its challenges; discussions reportedly began in late December, which ended without conclusion. However, Wirtz remained optimistic throughout, despite the complexities involved in media negotiations.
Moving forward, while Comcast’s coverage—particularly within its highest package—won’t restore all previous viewership levels, it should dramatically enhance the reach of Chicago sports teams, especially given Comcast’s strategy of transitioning many regional sports networks to its premier tiers.
