Big Ten, Dish Networks Reach Agreement

Good news came early Saturday morning for fans of the Fighting Illini and other conference teams. The Big Ten Network has finalized a new agreement with DISH Network, which returns Big Ten games to the satellite TV service.

The initial five-year agreement between Big Ten and Dish ended on Aug. 31, and the two sides reached two temporary, week-long deals. About a week ago, negotiations between the two sides stalled, and the Big Ten Network was taken off of Dish after a previous agreement expired.

“We’re pleased that both sides could eventually come together, and we thank fans for their patience,” BTN spokeswoman Elizabeth Conlisk said in a statement.

Dish has carried BTN since its launch in 2007.