For New York fans, the Yankees, Knicks, Nets and all of the region’s NHL teams will be available on one service as YES and MSG Networks will launch the Gotham Sports app.
This move has been expected since the two networks formed a joint venture called Gotham Advanced Media and Entertainment (GAME). While fans can still access YES and MSG through cable and satellite providers, GAME allows fans without cable to watch all six teams, including the Rangers, Islanders and Devils, under one roof.
The Mets and SNY are not involved because they do not have a direct sales product.
The Gotham package costs $41.99 per month or $359.99 per year. YES’ app currently costs $24.99 per month or $239.99 per year, while MSG+ costs $29.99 per month or $279.99 per year. MSG+ also offers individual games for $9.99.
The Gotham Sports app is only available to fans on the YES and MSG cable networks in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut and will be available prior to the Knicks and Nets season.
The joint venture is part of a rebundling of services to counter declining cable subscriber numbers, which for decades have been the lifeblood of regional sports networks. ESPN, Fox Sports and TNT Sports have teamed up for a national version called Venu Sports, but it is currently being halted by an injunction.
One difference between Gotham and Venu is that fans can subscribe to Gotham but simply choose MSG+ or YES at regular price without the other offer.
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(Photo: Chris McGrath / Getty Images)
