What's Happening?
Altitude Sports & Entertainment's streaming service, Altitude+, has reported a record-breaking 2025-26 season, with significant growth in registered users, total views, and TVE subscribers. The service, which is the official streaming home for the Colorado
Avalanche (NHL) and Denver Nuggets (NBA), saw a 63% increase in registered users, a 186% increase in total views, and a 105% increase in TVE subscribers compared to the 2024-25 season. This growth is attributed to the implementation of fan-requested features, including multiview for watching games side-by-side, integrated live chat, spoiler control, start-from-the-beginning functionality for live games, expanded ad inventory, and new distribution channels like Xumo. ViewLift powers Altitude+ in alliance with Altitude Sports and KSE Media Ventures.
Why It's Important?
The substantial growth of Altitude+ signifies a major shift in how sports content is consumed, highlighting the increasing demand for direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming services in the U.S. sports market. This success demonstrates that by focusing on fan-centric features and expanding distribution, regional sports networks can effectively compete in the evolving media landscape. For the NBA and NHL, this trend indicates a viable pathway for teams to engage their local fan bases more directly and generate new revenue streams outside traditional cable television. The success of Altitude+ could encourage other sports organizations to invest further in their own streaming platforms, potentially leading to a more fragmented but personalized sports viewing experience for consumers.
What's Next?
Given the success of Altitude+, it is likely that Altitude Sports & Entertainment will continue to invest in enhancing its streaming platform and expanding its reach. Other regional sports networks and professional sports teams may look to Altitude+'s model as a blueprint for their own streaming strategies, potentially accelerating the shift towards DTC sports content. This could lead to increased competition in the sports streaming market, driving further innovation in features and content delivery. The continued growth of such platforms will also influence negotiations for media rights, as leagues and teams gain more leverage through direct fan engagement.
Beyond the Headlines
The success of Altitude+ reflects a broader trend in media consumption where consumers increasingly prefer personalized, on-demand experiences. This shift challenges traditional broadcasting models and emphasizes the importance of technology and user experience in retaining and growing an audience. The integration of features like multiview and live chat transforms passive viewing into an interactive experience, fostering a stronger sense of community among fans. This evolution in sports broadcasting not only impacts how fans watch games but also how teams build and maintain relationships with their supporters, potentially leading to new forms of fan engagement and monetization beyond traditional ticket sales and merchandise.
