In a significant shift away from traditional cable services as the primary broadcaster for their games, the Anaheim Ducks announced on Tuesday that they will partner with Victory+ for their game broadcasts and related programming.
Fans will not incur a fee to watch Ducks games, marking the end of the team’s relationship with Bally Sports, which is part of the regional networks owned by Diamond Sports Group. With the Victory+ app accessible on TVs, streaming devices, and smartphones, fans can view almost every Ducks game during the 2024-25 regular season, provided they are located within the team’s designated market area.
Victory+ will host all Ducks games, except for a few that will be aired on TNT or ESPN, the NHL’s national broadcast partners in the U.S. Additionally, in Southern California, KCOP-TV will broadcast 65 locally produced games over the air.
Ducks president Aaron Teats expressed hope that one of the team’s six preseason games will serve as the inaugural broadcast, with the season opener on October 12 against San Jose potentially being the first of what could be 78 regular-season games presented on the platform.
The agreement between the Ducks and A Parent Media Co., which operates Victory+, covers the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, with the option for extension.
Longtime play-by-play announcer John Ahlers and analyst Brian Hayward are anticipated to continue their roles for Ducks games, while Kent French, Aly Lozoff, and Guy Hebert will return to contribute to the broadcasts. According to Teats, there will also be supplementary programming, including behind-the-scenes player features, available through a dedicated Ducks channel on Victory+.
“I believe this will be well-received by the community and, in particular, our fans, as it allows us to deliver content in a way that suits their preferences, all without any cost,” Teats shared with The Athletic.
Teats indicated that this transition aligns with the team’s objective of making their content accessible to the entire Los Angeles regional market, which encompasses around 8 million households across several Southern California counties and Hawaii.
Diamond Sports Group, which owns Bally Sports, filed for bankruptcy in spring 2023. Many teams have responded to the ensuing uncertainty regarding Diamond’s future by either broadcasting games on their own paid subscription services or collaborating with other networks. The Dallas Stars partnered with Victory+ in July, moving on from Bally Sports Southwest, whereas the Los Angeles Kings continue their affiliation with Bally Sports West due to a multi-year agreement reached in September 2023.
Bally Sports previously offered Ducks games to non-cable or satellite subscribers for a monthly fee, accessible on devices within their market. However, some streaming services either did not carry the network or had dropped it altogether. Although the Ducks continued discussions with Diamond after their contract expired, Teats mentioned that the team had been exploring various options throughout the summer. Owners Henry and Susan Samueli ultimately approved the transition to the ad-supported Victory+. A Parent Media Co., which has built its reputation in children’s programming and content, is expanding its sports offerings with Victory+.
“We need to prioritize distribution,” Teats emphasized. “Our focus must be on ensuring that as many fans as possible can access our games. I commend Henry and Susan for prioritizing market distribution for all Ducks and NHL fans.”
“We have found an effective model to achieve maximum distribution, allowing 100 percent of households in our designated market area to access our games at no cost. This represents a significant advancement for our fan base, our team, and our brand. We are truly excited to see the inaugural broadcast,” he added.
Teats described Bally Sports and Diamond Sports Group as “great partners,” noting that Diamond CEO David Preschlack and Bally Sports West/SoCal general manager Steve Simpson have been “first-class” to collaborate with amidst the financial challenges faced by the parent company. “However, we viewed this as an opportunity rather than solely something needing improvement,” the Ducks’ president remarked.
The decision to transition stemmed from a desire to enhance the viewing experience for fans who have often faced frustration due to limited access to their preferred sports broadcasts, often only available through multiple paid platforms.
“This is significant for us,” Teats stated. “Previously, numerous applications required authentication tied to cable or satellite providers. Now, viewers will simply provide their name and set up a password, and voila, they can watch Ducks hockey without any credit card involved. We’re excited about that.”
The change the Ducks are implementing reflects Teats’ perspective on the need for teams to adapt within an evolving medium.
“The future is about offering choices to the consumer,” he asserted. “We are at the center of a constantly changing landscape in sports television. Teams must remain adaptable and clear on their priorities when entering new agreements. I anticipate we will witness increased differentiation among markets and teams in the coming years.”
“I believe we will see a surge in creativity over the next few years, more so than we have in a long time,” he added.
(Photo of Trevor Zegras: Rich Gagnon / Getty Images)
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California Dreaming: Anaheim Ducks Embrace Victory+ for Free Streaming of Games, Marking a Shift in Sports Broadcasting
The Rise of Streaming in Sports Broadcasting
In recent years, the landscape of sports broadcasting has dramatically shifted towards online streaming platforms. As traditional cable subscriptions decline, teams and leagues are exploring innovative ways to reach their fans. The Anaheim Ducks, a beloved NHL franchise, are at the forefront of this movement with their new partnership with Victory+, offering fans an exciting opportunity to watch games for free.
What is Victory+?
Victory+ is a cutting-edge streaming service that provides fans with access to live sports events, including games from the NHL. By leveraging advanced technology, Victory+ allows users to stream games seamlessly on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Key Features of Victory+
- Free Access: Fans can watch Anaheim Ducks games without a subscription.
- Multi-Device Support: Stream games on your preferred device, whether at home or on the go.
- Interactive Experience: Engage with live stats, player information, and real-time updates during games.
Why the Shift to Free Streaming?
With the increasing adoption of digital viewing habits, teams like the Anaheim Ducks are recognizing the importance of accessibility. Here are some reasons behind this significant shift:
1. Reaching Younger Audiences
Millennials and Gen Z are less likely to subscribe to traditional cable TV services. By offering free streaming options, the Ducks can connect with younger fans who prefer online content.
2. Expansion of Fan Base
Free streaming allows the Ducks to reach fans beyond their geographical limitations. Supports can tune in from anywhere, growing the team’s brand and community.
3. Enhanced Fan Engagement
Interactive features on streaming platforms can create a more engaging experience for fans, making them feel more connected to the team and each other.
Benefits of Free Streaming for Fans
The partnership between the Anaheim Ducks and Victory+ brings several benefits for fans:
Cost-Effective Viewing
- Fans no longer need to invest in expensive cable packages to watch their favorite team.
- Free streaming democratizes access to sports, making it enjoyable for fans of all backgrounds.
Convenience and Flexibility
- Viewers can watch games from anywhere, whether at home or while traveling.
- Multiple devices allow fans to choose their preferred viewing experience.
Community Building
Free streaming encourages fans to engage in online discussions and communities, fostering a sense of belonging among supporters.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Ducks Games on Victory+
To make the most of your viewing experience, follow these practical tips:
- Download the Victory+ App: Ensure you have the latest version to enjoy uninterrupted streaming.
- Stay Connected: Use strong Wi-Fi or mobile data to avoid buffering during the game.
- Engage with Other Fans: Join social media groups or forums to discuss games and share insights.
Case Study: Success of Free Streaming with the Anaheim Ducks
The Anaheim Ducks are not the only team experimenting with free streaming, but their partnership with Victory+ has provided valuable insights into fan engagement and viewing habits.
Initial Response
Upon launching the Victory+ streaming platform, the Ducks saw a significant spike in viewership numbers. Fans praised the accessibility and quality of the stream, leading to increased merchandise sales and social media engagement.
Fan Testimonials
| Fan Name | Testimonial |
|---|---|
| Jake R. | “I can watch the Ducks without paying a fortune for cable!” |
| Sarah K. | “The streaming quality is fantastic, and I love the interactive features!” |
| Tom L. | “I can now watch games while on the go, which is a game-changer!” |
A Look Ahead: The Future of Sports Broadcasting with Streaming
The success of the Anaheim Ducks’ free streaming initiative with Victory+ may set the stage for a broader change in sports broadcasting. Here are some trends to watch:
1. Increased Collaboration with Streaming Platforms
More sports teams may seek partnerships with streaming services to provide fans with affordable access to games.
2. Growth of ‘Over-The-Top’ (OTT) Services
OTT streaming services are expected to rise in popularity, providing tailored viewing experiences.
3. Enhanced Technological Features
As technology evolves, teams will likely incorporate more interactive features into their broadcasts, enhancing the viewer experience.
First-Hand Experience: Watching Ducks Games on Victory+
As a passionate Ducks fan, I recently experienced a game streamed on Victory+. Here’s what I found:
Setup and Installation
Setting up the Victory+ app was seamless, with a user-friendly interface that made it easy to navigate through live games and past highlights.
Streaming Quality
The streaming quality was impressive, with minimal buffering and high-definition visuals that made me feel as though I was right in the arena.
Overall Experience
I found the ability to access real-time stats and player information during the game added an exciting layer to the viewing experience. It felt more engaging compared to traditional broadcasting methods.
Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Sports Broadcasting
The Anaheim Ducks’ partnership with Victory+ not only marks a significant shift in how fans consume sports but also sets a precedent for other teams and leagues. By embracing technology and providing free streaming options, the Ducks are paving the way for a more inclusive and engaging sports viewing experience.
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