CSN Houston Ruling Allows For Creation Of New Network, But Comcast Appeals

A federal bankruptcy judge Thursday approved a Chapter 11 reorganization plan that will "allow AT&T and DirecTV to purchase" CSN Houston and relaunch it in November as Root Sports Houston, according to David Barron of the HOUSTON CHRONICLE. There was "no immediate indication, in the wake of Judge Marvin Isgur’s ruling, when the new network will launch with expanded carriage on DirecTV and AT&T U-verse in addition to Comcast." However, CSN Houston has "posted a broadcast schedule through Nov. 9, so the new network is not likely to launch until after that period." Isgur’s ruling does "not mean that the case is concluded." Comcast "filed notice of appeal late Thursday night, alleging the judge erred on six grounds in his decision." Officials with the Rockets and Astros, who "supported the reorganization plan, said they were pleased with the judge’s ruling." DirecTV and AT&T "will acquire the network" for $5,000 and will invest $50M (CHRON.com, 10/30).