Bloomberg Business of Sports

Lew Sherr, chief investment officer at the U.S. Tennis Association, joins Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the key drivers at the U.S. Open. Sherr talks about the tournament's major revenue streams, including media, sponsorship, hospitality and ticket sales, which are on pace to set a record this year. He also discusses the USTA's core mission, which is to grow the sport and make it more accessible. Sherr looks back at the Billie Jean King-Bobby Riggs match, and discusses what it has meant for gender equity in tennis. He also discusses merchandise sales, including the ubiquitous basketball-sized tennis balls that have become a fan-favorite, and talks about how food and beverage has become an integral part of the final grand slam event of the season's experience. Sherr also discusses the famous fans, including Tiger Woods and Wall Street's titans. Hosts: Scott Soshnick and Michael BarrProducer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(Bloomberg) -- Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Forbes magazine's annual National Football League franchise values list. This year, as in the past 12, the Dallas Cowboys top the list with a valuation of $5.5 billion. The team generates about $950 million in revenue. Rounding out the top five are: the New England Patriots ($4.1 billion), New York Giants ($3.9 billion), Los Angeles Rams ($3.8 billion) and San Francisco 49ers ($3.5 billion). The Cowboys are out front because they lead the NFL in revenue from suites, club seats, sponsorship and non NFL stadium events. Also discussed is Ezekiel Elliott's new contract with the Cowboys, who get their star running back in uniform just in time for Sunday's season-opener against the New York Giants. Also discussed is the National Basketball Association's weighing the creation of an investment vehicle that would buy minority shares of individual teams. Hosts: Scott Soshnick and Michael BarrProducer: Tim HerroTo listen to this podcast click here (running time 12:42)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr in a special Labor Day edition of the Bloomberg Business of Sports podcast discuss a host of issues related to the industry, including the bevy of business story lines that accompany the NFL as it opens and new season and celebrates its 100th birthday. Among them are: Andrew Luck’s retirement, Rob Gronkowski and Terrell Davis’s CBD deals and Tony Romo’s desire to be the first $10 million TV man. Also discussed are the Yankees buyback of the YES Network along with Sinclair and Amazon, the changes in the college sports landscape, including the Pac-12 media sale and the growth of legalized sports betting in the U.S. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peach Bowl Chief Executive Officer Gary Stokan joins Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including how as a young Adidas executive he came oh-so-close to convincing Michael Jordan to sign with the German company over Nike. He tells the story of how one trip to Nike's headquarters changed it all. Stokan also discusses how he convinced big-time programs like Alabama to take part in early-season games like this weekend's Kickoff Game against Duke. Stokan also talks about the national nature of big-time college sports and how it has changed how the sport is sold to corporations like Chik-fil-A, which sponsors the Peach Bowl the the Kickoff event in Atlanta. He also discusses the attendance dip in college sports, and what coaches and administrators can do to convince students to buy tickets. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the National Football League's new sponsorship agreement with Oakley. The four-year deal allows players to wear the company's ``Prizm Clear'' shield beginning this season. The league made an exception to its rules limiting the use of tinted helmet shields as part of the agreement. Also discussed is a deal between the Mountain West Conference and ShotTracker in which for the first time a conference has been granted a waiver by the NCAA that'll permit the use of electronically transmitted data to the bench for coaching purposes during regular season basketball games. As part of the waiver, all programs in the conference are required to have the same technology on the bench. Also talked about is the financial status of English soccer teams Bolton and Bury, which were expelled from the Football League after failing to resolve financial woes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including NFL quarterback Andrew Luck's shocking decision to retire after just six pro seasons. The 29-year-old is stepping away from the game due to complications from a number of injuries, including a lingering lower leg problem that had cast his 2019 season in doubt. Colts owner Jim Irsay said a healthy Luck could have earned another $500 million in his career. Also discussed is the recent launch of the Atlantic Coast Conference's new cable channel -- the ACC Network -- which is owned by ESPN. The ACC is the fourth major college conference to launch a league-specific network. Also talked about is the U.S. Open, the final Grand Slam on the annual tennis calendar, which starts this week in New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Major League Baseball pitcher Michael Schwimer joins Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, all centered around data and analytics. Schwimer, 33, had a two-year career with the Philadelphia Phillies, during which he built a pitch-sequencing model tailored to each specific hitter. After leaving baseball, he founded Big League Advance, a company that invests in minor league players, offering upfront cash in return for a percentage of any future MLB earnings. Schwimer's latest venture is Jambos Picks, a subscription service that sells sports betting advice. He discusses both businesses, their opportunities for growth and the skepticism surrounding both industries. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Ira Boudway discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the legal battle between Nike Inc. and lawyer Michael Avenatti. Avenatti has been accused of extorting the sportswear giant, but filings from the case, which appear to detail numerous Nike employees discussing the payment of youth basketball players, may have other far-reaching ramifications. Also discussed is Boudway’s recent Bloomberg Businessweek story about the Athletic, a subscription sports news service whose success has become a litmus test for many in the news industry. Also talked about is the deeper story behind an English soccer fan who was told to stop texting at a game earlier this month. Stadium security thought he was engaging in the act of ’courtsiding,’ where fans in attendance at games relay information as fast as they can to bettors or sports betting operators.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Stephen Curry's decision to sponsor the creation of men's and women's golf teams at Howard University -- bringing the sport back to the historically black university for the first time in decades. Curry didn't reveal the exact amount -- it's a seven-figure donation paid out over six years, but funding for the teams can cost hundreds of thousands a year. Also discussed is a TMZ report that says Jay-Z will soon become part owner of a National Football League team. The report cited people close to the entertainer and mogul. The NFL last week announced a tie-up with Jay-Z, whose Roc Nation agency will oversee the league's entertainment, including the Super Bowl halftime show, and social initiatives. Also talked about is the ongoing saga surrounding Oakland Raiders wide receiver Antonio Brown's search for a comfortable helmet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SNY President Steve Raab joins Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including how the business of his regional sports network changes as the team it shows -- the New York Mets -- climb back into playoff contention. SNY is majority owned by the Mets, and its investors include Charter and Comcast, which provide distribution heft. Also discussed is how the Yankees and their RSN, the YES Network, complement SNY and help to promote the businesses of both. Raab also talks about where Major League Baseball is taking digital rights, and offers his take on what Sinclair's purchase of 21 Fox regional sports networks says about the industry. He also touches on SNY's Connecticut Ice, a hockey festival showcasing the sport across the state, including games involving Yale, Connecticut, Sacred Heart and Quinnipiac.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the National Football League’s deal with artist and entrepreneur Jay-Z, whose company, Roc Nation, will consult on the league’s entertainment offerings, including the Super Bowl halftime show. Roc Nation will also contribute to the league’s activism campaign, Inspire Change. Also discussed is Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, who is the latest boss to potentially face an unfair labor practice complaint for an anti-union tweet storm threatening workers who talk to union attorneys. Portnoy threatened to fire and sue employees that reached out to union lawyers. Also talked about is the ownership changes made with Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders, who welcomed, among others, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and Microsoft Corp. Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including NFL star Antonio Brown's threat to retire if he's prevented from wearing his longtime helmet. The NFL's rules prohibit players from wearing non-approved equipment in either practice or games. Brown's helmet hasn't been approved by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment. Also talked about is Major League Baseball's decision to stage a Yankees-White Sox game in the Iowa cornfield that was the backdrop for the move ``Field of Dreams.'' The game will be played next season. And also discussed is the NFL's new partnership with Sportradar, marking the league's first major step into gambling. The NFL, which is an investor in Sportradar, signed a multiyear deal with data firm, giving it exclusive rights to distribute official data to legal sports-betting operators in the U.S. and abroad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Capitol IV Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mark Ein joins Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including his investment in the Citi Open tennis tournament in Washington, DC, and his World Team Tennis club, the Washington Kastles. A former Citi Open ball boy, Ein acquired the 50-year-old tournament and is seeking to make it a destination event in the area. Ein talks about the next generation of tennis stars, and how they can affect the ticket-buying public. He also talks about the social media savvy of today’s young players and how that helps tournament operators to market their events. Ein upgraded the culinary offerings at the tournament, and created an indoor space for non VIPs. Also owner of the Washington Justice in the Overwatch League, Ein also talks about the growth of esports and what traditional sports team owners can learn.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott's desire for a new contract. According to ESPN, Elliott's representatives have told the Cowboys their client won't play this season without a new agreement. He is scheduled to be paid about $3 million this season and $9 million next season. Also discussed is Fortnite star Tyler ``Ninja'' Blevins move to Microsoft's Mixer platform from Amazon's Twitch. On Twitch, Ninja had some 14 million followers, which helped him to generate about $10 million in sponsorship, ads and subscription revenue last year. Also discussed are American Airlines' 10-year, $90 million sponsorship of the plaza at Stan Kroenke's $5 billion Los Angeles stadium, and Allegiant's deal to put its name on the new football stadium in Las Vegas. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Tom Brady's contract extension with the New England Patriots. The two-year extension keeps Brady, 42, under contract through the 2021 season. Also discussed is Brady's decision to sign with Endeavor for off-the-field matters. Also discussed is Barcelona playing exhibition games in the U.S. without star player Lionel Messi, who is bothered by a calf injury. Barca is scheduled to play Italian side Napoli in Miami and Michigan. And also touched on is a lawsuit involving baseball's Philadelphia Phillies and the firm that created its beloved mascot, the Phillie Phanatic. The company, Harrison/Erickson Inc., said it may make the mascot a so-called free agent if a contract signed in 1984 isn't restructured. The team has also filed suit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bleacher Report Chief Executive Officer Howard Mittman joins Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including his digital media company's popularity on Twitter. According to Mittman, Bleacher is the No. 2 most engaged account on Twitter, sandwiched in-between President Trump and Ariana Grande. Bleacher focuses on sports and culture, and its audience on social media has an average age of about 26. Mittman discusses how Bleacher goes about finding customers, what the company does with user data, and what the landscape of legalized sports betting in the U.S. means for his platform. Mittman also talks about live rights, partnerships, ESPN and The Athletic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the tax implications of the Dallas Cowboys hosting training camp in California. The Cowboys and Carolina Panthers are the only two NFL teams to hold camps outside of their home states. Having to pay California taxes costs some players hundreds of thousands of dollars. Also discussed is New Balance's decision to cancel lacrosse player Paul Rabil's endorsement contract. The company says Rabil violated terms of his multi-million-dollar deal by wearing another brand during practice and games for the Premier Lacrosse League. Rabil co-founded the PLL, leaving Major League Lacrosse. New Balance found Jim Davis until recently owned four MLL franchises. The continuing controversy surrounding U.S. Soccer's gender pay inequity is also discussed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the financial troubles of Washington Redskins star Adrian Peterson. The highest paid running back in NFL history, Peterson is being sued for allegedly defaulting on a $5.2 million loan and has other creditors, all despite making over $100 million over his career. An attorney for the 34-year-old said he was "taken advantage of." Also discussed is the Pac-12's announcement that it is considering playing football games that start at 9 AM Pacific time, in an effort to boost its exposure across the country. The pair also talk about the first Fortnite World Cup, which paid its winner $3 million.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liverpool Football Club Chief Executive Officer Peter Moore (and the club's recently acquired Champions League trophy) join Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including his team's U.S. tour that included a stop at Yankee Stadium. Liverpool is just one of many blue-chip soccer brands to tour the U.S., hoping to snag a share of the world's largest sports market. Moore also talked about the ownership of John Henry, who also controls baseball's Boston Red Sox, and how LeBron James's fashion choices can affect the soccer team's bottom line. Moore also discusses OTT networks and how direct-to-consumer helps the club win fans and generate revenue around the globe. Moore took over as Liverpool's CEO in 2017. Prior to that he ran the sports division at Electronic Arts. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the appreciation of professional sports teams in the NFL, NBA and MLB. According to Forbes, for the first time every team in those leagues is worth at least $1 billion. Also talked about is Zion Williamson’s decision to sign with Nike’s Jordan Brand. Williamson, the No. 1 draft pick and most heralded NBA rookie since LeBron James -- also a Nike face -- was courted by several shoe and apparel brands. Financial terms of the deal, which Williamson announced on his Instagram page, weren’t disclosed. Also talked about is an investment by Theresia Gouw, often referred to as the richest female venture capitalist, into a beach volleyball media platform started by five-time Olympian and three-time gold medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings. Gouw is the co-founder of Aspect Ventures, whose portfolio of companies includes 40% started by women. Jennings’s p1440 is the first digital media platform dedicated to the sport and culture surrounding beach volleyball.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams, Randall Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including ESPN personality Dan Le Batard's decision to break from company policy to discuss politics on his radio show. The son of Cuban immigrant, Le Batard last week criticized President Donald Trump and ESPN's own policy of only discussing politics when the topic is broached by the coaches and athletes it covers. Le Batard hasn't been publicly disciplined, but reportedly chose not to do his radio show on Monday. Also discussed is LSU's new $28 million renovation to its football operations building, which include a revamped cafeteria and fancy new locker room. Also touched on is a brewing carriage dispute between Dish Network and a complicated web of different networks, including channels owned by Fox and Disney. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams, Randall Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connecticut Jr. Rangers program director Jeff Hamilton, a Yale graduate and former National Hockey League player, joins Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including his team’s victory in the prestigious Brick Invitational Hockey Tournament. CJR became the first American team to win the tournament since 2002. Also discussed is the professional nature of youth sports, where parents have been known to spend tens of thousands of dollars on coaching and development. Hamilton discusses the big business of youth sports, and why multi-sport athletes have an advantage over those who specialize in one sport from a young age. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Major League Baseball exploring whether to allow its teams to display advertisements on their uniforms. The consideration follows jersey patches in the NBA, where teams just completed the first season of uniform ads. Also discussed is the National Football League's revenue picture, as viewed through the Green Bay Packers' annual disclosure. The Packers are the league's only quasi-publicly traded club, meaning it has to disclose financials. It's the best glimpse into the NFL's revenue generation and expenses. Also touched on is the WNBA's suspension of Los Angeles Sparks player Riquna Williams for 10 games as a result of a domestic violence incident. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the five-set thriller that decided the Wimbledon men's championship. Novak Djokovic defeated Roger Federer in the epic affair, which was decided in a fifth-set tiebreak. The win boosted Djokovic's career on-court earnings to about $133 million, while Federer reached about $110 million. Moreover, the match was the most in DraftKings history with 55% of wagers coming from in-game, or live, play. Also discussed is the late Aubrey McClendon's 22% ownership stake in the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder that's been put up for sale. The sale comes as the team is shedding some of hits highest-paid and best-known players, including Russell Westbrook. And also talked about is Procter & Gamble's decision to donate $529,000 -- $23,000 for each of the 23 players on the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team that won the World Cup earlier this month -- to help close the pay gap with the men's team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big 3 founder Jeff Kwatinetz joins Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the appeal of retired National Basketball Association stars playing in a 3-on-3 format. The league was co-founded by producer, actor and music artist Ice Cube, who has partnered with Kwatinetz on a number of entertainment projects around. Also discussed is the league's less-than-lucrative TV deal with CBS and its plans for a trip to China. Also talked about is Kwatinetz and Cube's bid for the 21 Fox regional sports networks that ultimately went to Sinclair in a deal that still requires regulatory approval. Also talked about is the media landscape, what's missing, and what kind of programming he intends to produce and distribute. Hosts: Scott Soshnick and Michael BarrProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the debate within Major League Baseball over whether the baseball's are juiced this season. Pitcher Justin Verlander used the All-Star game platform to assert that the baseball's have been changed amid a surge of home runs. He questioned whether MLB has more input into the ball since Rawlings Sporting Goods Co. Inc., which manufactures the official balls, was purchased last year by Seidler Equity Partners. Padres General Partner Peter Seidler has oversight of all activities at the private equity firm and MLB is an investor. Also discussed is where women's soccer goes in the wake up the U.S. team's win at the World Cup. The team is embroiled in an equal pay dispute with U.S. Soccer. Also talked about is what the acquisitions of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant mean to the bottom line of the Brooklyn Nets. Hosts: Scott Soshnick and Michael BarrProducer: Mark SiniscalchiSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Kawhi Leonard's decision to join the Los Angeles Clippers. It was the latest blockbuster move in what has been a wild offseason for the league, and highlights a growing trend in the NBA -- star free agents are starting to act a lot like team general managers. Also discussed is U.S. women’s national team, which just won its fourth World Cup title. The championship comes as the team is taking legal action to try to raise pay to a level on par with the U.S. men's team, and also has ramifications for the nine-team National Women's Soccer League, which should see a large spike in interest. The pair also discuss 15-year-old American Coco Gauff, who make it to the Round of 16 in her first Wimbledon singles draw appearance. Hosts: Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred joins the podcast from London to talk about the league's first-ever games in Europe. The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees played twice in London last weekend, drawing two sold-out crowds and combining for 50 runs. MLB essentially built a make-shift baseball stadium inside London's Olympic Stadium, complete with imported locker rooms and dirt imported from Pennsylvania. Manfred discusses baseball's goals in hosting games in London, plus the economics of the games, which cost tens of millions to put on. He also discusses the payments MLB paid to the Red Sox to compensate them for losing two home games, and the possibility of placing a franchise in Europe in the future. Hosts: Michael Barr and Eben Novy-WilliamsProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Nike's controversial decision to recall a limited-edition Fourth of July shoe that featured the "Betsy Ross" version of the American flag. The image has been coopted by some far-right groups and Nike reportedly reconsidered the sale after conversations with quarterback-turned-activist Colin Kaepernick, one of the company's sponsored athletes. Also discussed is a quirk in the NBA's free agency rules that has prevented the Brooklyn Nets from being able to market new free agent acquisitions Kevin Durant or Kyrie Irving. The pair also talk about the success of the U.S. women's national soccer team, which is one win away from repeating as World Cup champions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including a banner first day for NBA free agency. The Brooklyn Nets made the biggest splash, reportedly agreeing to terms with Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and DeAndre Jordan, while the crosstown New York Knicks failed to land a big name. Other stars changing teams appear to include Jimmy Butler and Al Horford. Also discussed is the success of the U.S. women's national team, which is playing the in semifinals of the Women's World Cup, and setting records for TV ratings and merchandise sales. Also talked about sports gambling numbers from May that show that New Jersey operators took more in wagers than operators in Nevada. Hosts: Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special, the Surveillance team does a deep dive on Major League Baseball's debut in the U.K. Robert Manfred Jr., MLB Commissioner, speaks on the profound financial opportunities of bringing Major League Baseball to Europe. And Sam Kennedy, Boston Red Sox CEO, illustrates the severity of the need to grow the MLB on an international scale. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former U.S. Women’s National Soccer team player Kristine Lilly joins Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the current team’s run through the World Cup, its place in the quarterfinal against host France, and what kind of halo would attach itself to the club should it win the tournament. Lilly, who first qualified for the national team while in high school, played in five World Cups, winning in 1991 and 1999. Lilly also discusses the state of women’s soccer, including the current team’s struggle for pay equality with the men. She also touches on what can be done to increase support for women’s soccer in non-World Cup years. And She also talks about her book, Powerhouse, which examines the teamwork tactics that have helped spur the U.S. women’s team’s success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including NCAA President Mark Emmert threatening to bar California teams from participating in national championships if a proposed state law takes effect. The bill in question would force schools to allow athletes to sign endorsements, appear in ads and make money off their name and likeness, which is currently a violation of the NCAA's amateurism rules. Also discussed is a unique new $3 billion Olympic sponsorship signed by Coca-Cola and Mengniu Dairy Company, China's largest dairy manufacturer. Also talked about is Steph Curry's new Under Armour golf line, which he unveiled in China. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-WilliamsProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Big 3 Chairman of the Board Amy Trask grabbing a mop and drying the court during a game. Trask, a former CEO of the NFL's Oakland Raiders, said the wet spot was bugging her so she just grabbed the mop and dried the court herself. Also discussed is Major League Baseball's decision to grant the Tampa Bay Rays permission to explore the possibility of splitting their home games between Florida and Montreal. The team has for years unsuccessfully lobbied for a new stadium. Under the proposal, the Rays would play the first part of the season in Tampa and the second half in Montreal, where business leaders are lobbying for the return of big-league baseball. Also talked about is UConn's decision to return to the Big East Conference from the American Athletic Conference. The Big East doesn't offer football. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Disney Chief Executive Officer Michael Eisner joins Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including his pursuit and eventual ownership of English lower division soccer team Portsmouth. Eisner talks about the pitfalls of pro sports team ownership and what advice he would give a prospective owner of an English football club at any level. Eisner also talks today’s broadcast environment, including the value proposition of professional sports. He also talks about the migration of sports, and whether technology companies like Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix and Google will be serious bidders for pro sports rights. He also touches on the global growth of esports.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including a new partnership between NBA All-Star Anthony Davis and Ruffles, the PepsiCo-owned potato chip brand. Davis, who was recently traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, will become a Ruffles endorser, but he also unveiled a new sneaker with Nike, called the Ruffles Ridge Tops, which are potato-chip inspired. Also talked about was the police question of Michel Platini, the former head of European soccer's governing body, over potential corruption connected to the vote that awarded Qatar the right to host the 2022 World Cup. Also discussed is Major League Baseball and its players union beginning labor talks more than two year before their current deal expires. Hosts: Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the Los Angeles Lakers' acquisition of All-Star center Anthony Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans. In return for Davis, who had requested a trade, the Pelicans will receive three players and three first-round draft picks. Davis will team with LeBron James, who this past season missed the playoffs for the first time in his career. Also talked about is how Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, parent company of the Toronto Raptors, can capitalize on the team's National Basketball Association championship. MLSE also owns hockey's Maple Leafs and soccer's Toronto FC. Also discussed is Florida State University's decision to privatize its athletic department, which, among other things, keeps the entity from having to respond to open record requests. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NBC Sports horse racing analyst Randy Moss joins Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of thoroughbred racing, including the 29 horses that have died at Santa Anita Racetrack since December. The deaths have drawn national attention, including condemnation from California Governor Gavin Newsom. Moss also talks about declining interest in what was once one of America's most popular sports, and what horse racing can do to possibly reverse the trend. Also discussed is horse racing's history with gambling, and why there's economic incentive for owners not to race their best horses. Hosts: Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-WilliamsProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the fallout from Kevin Durant's injury sustained during Game 5 of the National Basketball Association Finals. Durant, a former league MVP who had missed time with a calf problem, sustained an Achilles injury during the game. It has prompted billionaire Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban to call for the league and players union to invest in research into diagnostic tools that would allow for proactive analysis of tendons and ligaments. Cuban said it's worth the investment, even if the payoff is more than a decade away. Also discussed are the U.S. Women's Soccer team's 13-0 win over Thailand, and Forbes's list of highest paid athletes, which is topped by a trio of soccer players: Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-WilliamsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the prospect of banned Golden State Warriors minority owner Mark Stevens selling his stake in the National Basketball Association franchise. Stevens, a billionaire, was barred by the NBA for a year and fined $500,000 for pushing Kyle Lowry of the Toronto Raptors. Seventy-five percent of NBA owners would have to agree in order to force Stevens to sell his stake. It is also possible that his fellow partners in the team would ask him to relinquish it. Stevens reportedly bought in at an $800 million valuation. The team, which is moving to a new arena in San Francisco next season, is now worth $3.5 billion, according to Forbes. Also discussed is the Pac-12's stake sale, which has reportedly drawn interest from several suitors, and a Twitter executive saying the company isn't interested in bidding on live sports rights. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Basketball Association Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum joins Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the championship series between the Toronto Raptors and Golden State Warriors. Also discussed is the league’s global ambition, and how the NBA can drive revenue outside of the U.S. Tatum also talks about the league’s approach to sports betting, data, and how the NBA and its teams are utilizing technology to drive interest in the NBA. Prior to his appointment as deputy commissioner in 2014, Tatum served as executive vice president of global marketing partnerships.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the 39th meeting between Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal. The tennis icons face each other in the semifinal at the French Open as both look to add to their career grand slam totals. Nadal is 23-15 all-time versus Federer, who hasn't beaten his rival in five chances at Roland Garros. Federer has won 20 major singles titles, the most by any man. Also discussed is a decision by the organizers of the Tokyo Olympics to bar fans from posting video taken at venues from their social media accounts. And also talked about is Illinois close to becoming the 13th state in the U.S. to legalize sports betting. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the trademark application for ``Tom Terrific'' made by New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. The application was made by Brady's TEB Capital. Former New York Mets pitcher Tom Seaver was known as ``Tom Terrific,'' but never moved to trademark the phrase. Also discussed is Andy Ruiz's upset of Anthony Joshua to become boxing's heavyweight champion, and the possibilities for him as an endorser. Also talked about is the convergence of TV sports and e-commerce as NBC during its telecast of the French Open invited viewers to point their phones at the screen to buy the outfits worn by Novak Djokovic. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Facebook Vice President of Global Sports and Media Partnerships Dan Reed joins Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the company's Facebook Watch strategy for both live sports and video on demand. Reed also discusses the role the social media platform plays in helping leagues, teams, athletes and media drive their business initiatives beyond just video distribution. Also discussed is the Tom vs. Time series that centered on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and the new series, Stephen vs. The Game, featuring Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry. Also discussed is how the company uses data to help its sports partners drive revenue. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including two recent stories about young athletes blazing new trails in their question to reach the pros. In the first, high school basketball star R.J. Hampton announced this week that he will play basketball professionally in Australia instead of playing in college as he awaits the 2020 NBA Draft. In the second, 19-year-old pitcher Carter Stewart signed to play baseball professionally in Japan instead of re-entering the MLB Draft. Both Stewart and Hampton will make more money in the near-term, and roll the dice that their development will also accelerate due to a higher level of competition. Also talked about is the $110 million sale of Sports Illustrated to Authentic Brands Group. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-WilliamsProducer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this special Memorial Day edition of the Bloomberg Business of Sports podcast, Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discusses some of the biggest trends in sports business and look ahead towards the rest of 2019. The trio discuss the rapid expansion of legal sports betting, and the ramifications for operators, media companies and the leagues themselves. They also break down the NBA Draft and it's lottery system, and the future stardom of Duke phenom Zion Williamson. Also discussed is Tiger Woods's dramatic win at the Masters, and how college sports are creating new types of media deals. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-WilliamsProducer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brazilian auto racing driver Helio Castroneves joins Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including his participation in the Indianapolis 500, a race he's won three times. Castroneves talks about his team owner, Roger Penske, and the importance of communication and teamwork during a race. He also talks about what sponsors want from their agreements, and how the team's relationship with its sponsors goes beyond just the race track. Also discussed is how IndyCar can benefit from technology and media, and how NBC is taking a storytelling approach to its first Indy 500 coverage. Also discussed is his participation, and the promotion, that he received from appearing on Dancing With the Stars. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the NFL and its players association announcing joint agreements that will address pain management and behavioral health. As part of the agreements, the league and union will work together to address pain management and potential treatments, including the use of marijuana. Also discussed is New York golf courses being poised to keep their tax breaks after a repeal attempt faltered. The fight happened after Trump National Golf Club in suburban New York challenged its assessed value. And also talked about is Nascar's $2 billion acquisition of International Speedway Corp, more tightly combining two companies already controlled by the France Family. Nascar has been seeking a minority investment. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the marketability of PGA Championship winner Brooks Koepka, who has taken four of the past nine major tournaments. Koepka has an apparel deal with Nike, but no equipment endorsement. He also has a deal with Michelob Ultra. Also discussed is NBC taking over the broadcast of the Indy 500, which from 1965 through last year was seen on ABC. NBC outbid ABC for exclusive rights to the IndyCar series. The Indy 500 has seen a stead decline in viewers, dropping to 4.9 million last year from 6.5 million in 2015. And also talked about is the NCAA's decision against governing esports. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TD Garden President Amy Latimer joins Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the dollars associated with the buildings that house games. Latimer, who was part of the arena's inaugural executive team in 1995, discusses a litany of topics related to how a sports arena operates, including how technology has helped franchises to know their customers and keep them satisfied. She also talks about the scheduling process, which can be a bit of a gamble when a building like TD Garden has two anchor tenants often participating in their respective playoffs. Also discussed are ticketing, food and beverage and the ongoing $130 million renovation to the facility. Also talked about is the mystery of gelato -- Celtics fans love it; Bruins fans not so much. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.