After nearly six years of frustration, fans of the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche can finally breathe easy as Altitude Sports has announced its return to Comcast's Xfinity platform. The long-standing blackout, which started when the broadcast deal with Comcast expired at the end of 2019, had kept many loyal viewers from watching their favorite teams, even as both the Nuggets and Avalanche celebrated championship victories.
Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE), which owns Altitude Sports, shared the news on Tuesday morning, declaring the end of the blackout as pivotal for the passionate sports fans throughout Colorado and neighboring regions. "We are thrilled to once again make Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche games available on Comcast and Xfinity platforms in Colorado and the surrounding region," said KSE Vice Chairman Josh Kroenke. "This is the best possible outcome for Nuggets Nation and Avs Faithful, who now have a straightforward way to see every game on one service." The excitement is palpable, as fans no longer have to scramble to find alternative viewing options.
The agreement covers all Xfinity TV customers not just in Colorado but also extends to viewers in New Mexico, Arizona, and parts of Kansas. Fans can begin watching live broadcasts as early as tonight, when the Avalanche take on the Vancouver Canucks at 8 p.m., followed by Nuggets games such as the matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday.
Reactions from eager fans echoed the sentiments of relief and jubilation. Morgan Seeley, who lives in Denver, remarked, "I think it's just awesome. Great for Colorado. I don't like the games being held behind walls." This agreement allows for Altitude Sports to be aired on Xfinity channel 1250 with accessible packages aimed at enhancing the viewing experience for subscribers.
Comcast’s Senior Vice President for the Mountain West Region, J.D. Keller, noted, "Xfinity delivers the sports and entertainment customers love. We're excited to give fans more ways to watch the recent world-champion Avalanche and Nuggets through this new agreement with Altitude." This sentiment is shared across many households where sports have been on hold for far too long.
Mayor Mike Johnston, who has played a significant role in urging both entities to reach this agreement, provided his praise following the announcement. "The real winners today are the fans. Most fans have been waiting for it, and to know finally, tonight, every single family can watch the Avs and Nuggets, that's a game-changer for us," he affirmed. Johnston emphasized the emotional connection sports have over families and generations, highlighting how they reminisce about their experiences watching star players like Nathan MacKinnon and Nikola Jokić.
The six-year blackout stemmed from years of negotiations and legal disputes following the expired contract. Altitude previously filed suit against Comcast over claims of alleged anti-competitive behavior, but Comcast disputed those allegations, resulting only in more delays. The ensuing years left fans helpless; Comcast subscribers made up approximately 92% of the market's cable customers, intensifying the frustration.
Numerous fans echoed their experiences during the blackout. Warren Lott, another avid sports fan from Denver, expressed relief at the resolution, stating, "I don't feel like I have to go out, and I can have a lot of more peace there at home," signaling how much the ability to watch games from the comfort of their own homes meant to the fans.
Moving forward, the logistics of the agreement will see Altitude available through various platforms, with Xfinity customers having multiple options for subscribing, whether via traditional cable or through live streaming using the Altitude+ app. "I'm thankful Altitude and Comcast came to the table and worked together to close this deal. Their teamwork will benefit the fans, the players, and the city," Johnston noted, optimistic about future accessibility for sports enthusiasts.
The reintroduction of Altitude Sports is not only favorable for current fans but will likely help draw new attendees to games at Ball Arena, where the Nuggets and Avalanche play. With the thrill of being able to stream games readily available, many families are expected to turn back to supporting their teams with renewed fervor, ensuring the growth and vibrancy of Colorado’s sports culture.
Altogether, the end of the blackout marks not just the resumption of broadcasts but symbolizes hope for sports fans who passionately await to witness the high-energy matches, paving the way for future championships and celebrating victories together with their friends and families. With this agreement, fans can now watch every game—making the upcoming sports season one to watch out for!