DirecTV & Chicago Sports Network Seal Deal for Bulls, Blackhawks, White Sox

In an exciting development for Chicago sports fans, DirecTV is teaming up with the newly forged Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) to offer live telecasts of the city's most beloved teams: the Bulls, Blackhawks, and White Sox. The deal will broadcast games into the comfort of fans' homes across Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin starting next month.

According to a joint press release from CHSN and DirecTV, this multi-year distribution agreement marks a significant milestone for sports broadcasting in the Midwest. Jason Coyle, President of CHSN, lauded the deal: "This agreement establishes an immediate foundation for CHSN and aligns us with one of the foremost innovators in sports media."

The agreement paves the way for up to 300 live games, along with an array of additional programming tailored for Chicago and Midwest sports enthusiasts. CHSN will roll out its high-definition format on DirecTV's satellite, stream, and satellite-free lineups, taking over channels previously occupied by NBC Sports Chicago, notably on channel 665 and U-verse channels 1741(HD)/741(SD).

Starting October 1, DirecTV subscribers with the Choice package or above will gain access to CHSN's offerings. This move ensures that fans won't miss out on the action as the Bulls begin their preseason on October 8, closely followed by the Blackhawks' regular-season kick-off.

For those without DirecTV, CHSN will also be available via free over-the-air broadcasts on channels 62.2 and 62.3 in the Chicagoland region. This initiative guarantees that fans, regardless of their cable subscription status, can partake in watching live games. A detailed guide on how to install an antenna can be found on CHSN's website.