YES Network and MSG Networks have now formed Gotham Advanced Media and Entertainment (GAME). The new 50/50 joint venture is designed “to capitalize on the technical and operational synergies” between the streaming services offered by the two regional sports networks.
Both YES and MSG went through a number of changes last year in a bid to modernize their own products and services. For example, YES Network launched a direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service in March and MSG launched its MSG+ standalone streaming service in September.
Going forward, both companies now plan to work together through the new GAME joint venture. Based on the available information, users of both the YES app and MSG+ can expect to see some improvements to their user experience.
“As we continue to capitalize on the momentum created by YES’ award-winning digital offerings, we look forward to collaborating with MSG Networks to further elevate the fan experience,” said Jon Litner, CEO of the YES Network. “With the launch of GAME, we are excited to develop new product offerings, and premium features and functionality, to serve audiences like never before, while also providing a scalable tech solution for third-party content owners seeking to deliver state-of-the-art streaming experiences to their customers.”
As indicated by the last sentence, another goal of the new joint venture is to build out the capability to help other networks and teams launch their own streaming services in the future.
As Andrea Greenberg, President and Chief Executive Officer of MSG Networks, further explains: “This joint venture with YES will combine the streaming expertise of two of the largest regional sports networks in the country. With the formation of GAME, we seek to marry our collective insight, expertise and best-in-class technology not only to explore enhancements to our own products, but also to offer other networks, teams and sports properties an efficient way to launch a state-of-the-art streaming service. We are excited to partner with YES to create solutions for third-party content providers looking for a seamless way to reach new audiences.“
Basically, the joint venture will offer turn-key solutions to third parties that not only cover the user experience and support, but also data analytics for third parties, and much more.
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