Frequent price hikes and carriage disputes have led to YouTube TV increasingly resembling a traditional cable provider. With the imminent shutdown of Paramount networks on the platform, sports fans could face significant repercussions, particularly for one of the biggest events of the year: March Madness. On Monday, YouTube TV subscribers received an email concerning the potential blackout of Paramount networks, expected to take effect as soon as Tuesday.
Although the bulk of affected channels are lesser-viewed entertainment options, sports enthusiasts are notably concerned about CBS and CBS Sports Network potentially disappearing from their lineup. This concern is echoed on social media; as highlighted in a tweet from the Sickos Committee: “But seriously, here’s what YouTubeTV is losing if they lose Paramount. That’s a big chunk of March Madness.”
— Sickos Committee (@SickosCommittee) February 13, 2025
Given that this dispute arises right after the football season, it could be considered a lesser threat than if major games were at stake. Imagine if key AFC playoff games or significant Big Ten matchups were in jeopardy; there would undoubtedly be public outcry. Currently, however, CBS’s sports offerings are somewhat limited, focusing primarily on regular-season college basketball and a single PGA Tour event before NBC takes over in Florida. Other niche broadcasts on CBS Sports Network include pickleball, poker, bull riding, and sailing.
That scenario is set to shift dramatically around mid-March. On March 15th, CBS will air the Big Ten basketball tournament semifinals, followed by Selection Sunday on March 16th. The NCAA Tournament rounds kick off in full swing on March 20th. If the dispute drags on, it could severely affect YouTube TV subscribers’ access to one of the most celebrated sporting events of the year. While WBD networks will still broadcast several games on TNT, TBS, and truTV, the absence of CBS during March Madness would be a considerable setback.
Both YouTube TV and Paramount appear to recognize mid-March as a crucial deadline, particularly with March Madness approaching, yet they remain poised for conflict. YouTube TV is even offering subscribers an $8 credit for Paramount+ to keep accessing those channels while acknowledging they might lose some subscribers as a result of the dispute. This indicates a lack of urgency on their part.
In this evolving landscape of carriage disputes, the dynamics have shifted. YouTube TV may be less inclined to meet Paramount’s demands, as they already provide a comprehensive streaming platform. Conversely, Paramount might view this as an opportunity to attract YouTube TV subscribers to its own platform. Ultimately, the only group missing out is the subscribers themselves, who are looking for a cohesive and value-driven service. Once hailed as the best value for streaming, YouTube TV’s costs have skyrocketed. Following a recent $10 price increase, the monthly rate is now $82.99, drawing closer to traditional cable bundle costs.
After such a significant price hike, YouTube TV subscribers are likely frustrated by the looming carriage dispute. If they lose March Madness coverage as well, the platform’s hard-won goodwill could swiftly dissipate, further fragmenting the sports and entertainment landscape.
