What's in Store for Chicago Sports Fans?

The Chicago sports scene is about to get a whole new look with the launch of the Chicago Sports Network (CHSN), a joint venture between the Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox, and the Nashville-based Standard Media. Starting Tuesday, fans will be able to catch all the action on this new 24/7 regional sports network. But what does this mean for the teams and their fans? Let's dive in to find out. While NBC Sports Chicago was a staple for Chicago sports fans for two decades, the Chicago Sports Network is ready to take its place. CHSN has already secured a deal with DirecTV, and will be available to subscribers in the Chicago area starting Tuesday. The network will air over 300 games this season, including Blackhawks, Bulls, and White Sox matchups.

One of the most exciting aspects of CHSN is its interactive studio at the United Center, where fans will be able to participate in live game broadcasts. According to Jason Coyle, president of the Chicago Sports Network, the goal is to reach fans in as many ways as possible. "It comes down to reaching fans to the full extent of our rights geographically and providing them the network on as many platforms as we possibly can." For Blackhawks fans, this means they'll have access to 69 regular-season games, with veteran NHL announcer Rick Ball and analyst Darren Pang calling the shots. Pre- and postgame shows will be hosted by Pat Boyle, Tony Granato, and Caley Chelios. Bulls fans will have to wait a bit longer to find out their full schedule of games, but it's been announced that only five games will air nationally. Adam Amin and Stacey King will call the action, with pre-, halftime, and postgame shows featuring host Jason Goff, analyst Kendall Gill, and sideline reporter K.C. Johnson. As for the White Sox, there's been no word on a studio team yet, but Steve Stone and John Schriffen will return to the broadcast booth.

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