Chicago Blackhawks, Bulls and White Sox to unite on the Chicago Sports Network for television coverage

With NBC Sports Chicago’s contract with the Chicago Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox expiring on October 1st, all three teams needed a solution for their game broadcasts. On Monday, the teams, partnered with the Nashville-based company Standard Media, announced a new venture called the Chicago Sports Network (CHSN).

According to the press release, CHSN will carry more than 300 Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox games every year. The network will be a 24/7 sports network and will continue to carry pre and postgame shows for all three teams.

Standard Media owns four media stations and, according to the press release, has leaders with vast experience with streaming and cable negotiations. While it remains to be seen which services will be carrying CHSN, the network’s president Jason Coyle, formerly of Stadium, said, “We plan to serve our fans on as many platforms and in as many markets as our rights allow.” The release also stated: The network will launch with agreements in place with traditional cable providers, streaming services and be available via free, over-the-air broadcast. 

Cubs fans may recall Marquee Sports Network’s rocky start with its initial distribution. Hopefully, the Chicago Sports Network can avoid those same problems.

CHSN, which will have studio space in both the United Center and Guaranteed Rate Field, will launch in October with preseason Bulls and Blackhawks games, while the White Sox will play their first games on the network in 2025.