Comcast has a simple strategy when it comes to local team rights. In many markets where it operates a regional sports network, it looks to share equity in the channel with the local teams. Comcast believes such a scenario aligns the teams’ interests with the network’s interest. That’s where Amy Cohen comes in.
Cohen has been with Comcast since 1996, when Comcast started its local sports strategy. As the head of Comcast SportsNet’s legal department, Cohen has been instrumental in crafting these types of complex deals. Most recently, Cohen was in the middle of the deal to give the NBA Celtics up to a 20 percent stake in Comcast SportsNet New England in exchange for a 20-year rights deal extension through 2038. She also was a central figure in recent negotiations with the NBA on issues affecting multiple Comcast RSNs, such as the boundaries of TV territories, and has been overseeing legal matters for Versus for the past two years, as well.
— John Ourand
WHAT OTHERSARE SAYING
“Not only does Amy understand all facets of the television business and what makes sports teams and leagues tick, but she has proven herself to be a creative problem solver and an accomplished relationship-builder — all while forcefully advocating and protecting Comcast’s interests.”
- Bill Koenig, NBA executive vice president of business affairs and general counsel
