FanDuel Sports Network, Now Home Of Cavs And Others, Different In Name Only

October 23, 2024

Some fans of the Cavaliers and other NBA teams are a little bit confused by games being broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network this season. But it’s really just a name/sponsorship change.

In other words, the old Bally Sports is out as the name for NBA regional networks. FanDuel is in. Nothing else has changed.

These regional networks, owned by Diamond Sports, are believed to be in trouble financially and perhaps entering the last season under this umbrella.

Many believe the Cavs are headed to the Dan Gilbert-owned Rock Entertainment Sports Network. That channel is currently only available on access cable systems, but is showing high school football games and Cleveland Charge games, as well as minor league hockey and other sports. Next season, it very well could broadcast Cavs games, making a move to a full-fledged cable system and streaming service.

That’s the theory, anyway.

But back to FanDuel Sports TV. If you had the Bally’s app to watch the Cavs, it will now read “FanDuel.” Again, that’s the lone change. But the entire purpose of this post is because I’ve had countless people ask why their app says “FanDuel,” and if they can still watch the Cavs on it. Yes, you can.

As for Cavs broadcasts, things remain largely the same — though there are a few minor tweaks. The “Cavaliers Live” studio show, hosted by Cayleigh Griffin, will now feature mostly Cavs legend Austin Carr and occasionally, former Cavs guard Daniel Gibson.

The in-game broadcast team will again include play-by-play man John Michael, entering his sixth season. Former Cavs center Brad Daugherty will be the analyst for the majority of games. Carr will join for others. He’s in his 27th year on Cavs broadcasts. Also, Serena Winters is back for her fourth year as sideline reporter.

The most notable change is former Cavs forward Campy Russell and Fox Sports/Bally Sports analyst moving off the studio show.

As an aside, I’ll also have a Cavs-themed show coming to FanDuel Sports TV this season. Booby Gibson will join — and I’m sure his presence will excite people more than mine. Anyway, I’ll have full details on that in an upcoming post.