FanDuel Sports Network: The Latest Rebranding of Regional Sports Channels

In a significant development in the sports broadcasting landscape, the regional sports channels previously known as Bally Sports have been rebranded as part of the FanDuel Sports Network. This change was officially announced on October 18, 2024, following a new sponsorship agreement between Diamond Sports Group and FanDuel Group.

The rebranding, which took effect on October 21, 2024, includes networks such as Bally Sports Great Lakes, which now operates as FanDuel Sports Network Great Lakes. This network, serving northern Ohio, including the Cleveland area, Northwest Pennsylvania, and extreme Western New York, continues to broadcast a wide range of professional, collegiate, and high school sports events.

FanDuel Sports Network Great Lakes holds the regional cable television rights to various teams, including the Cleveland Guardians of Major League Baseball, although the Guardians have recently announced a new deal with MLB Local Media. The network is also the pay-TV outlet for the Cleveland Browns and was the primary TV outlet for Cleveland Monsters hockey until a new deal was struck with Gray Television.

Under the new agreement, FanDuel will have the option to take a minority equity stake of up to 5% in Diamond Sports once it exits bankruptcy. The branding change is part of a broader strategy to integrate FanDuel’s sports betting and media platforms, although the branding will be downplayed within programming related to high school sports.

The rebranding has introduced some confusion among viewers, particularly those who had been accustomed to the Bally Sports branding. However, the network’s programming, including original shows like “Training Camp Daily” and “Red Zone” for the Cleveland Browns, and golf instructional shows like “Swing Clinic” and “18 Holes,” will continue to be available under the new FanDuel Sports Network banner.