Bloomberg Business of Sports

Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including all the deals being signed by sports leagues in the gambling space. Among them are Major League Baseball's deal with MGM -- which already has contracts with the NBA and NHL -- and the NBA's data contract with Genius Sports and Sportradar. Also discussed is MLB's donation to the campaign of Cindy Hyde-Smith, who won her racially charged runoff election in Mississippi. Also talked about -- and danced to -- is a lawsuit that alleges Fox improperly used ``The Super Bowl Shuffle,'' which the Chicago Bears recorded in 1985. 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 technical problems that affected the Tiger Woods-Phil Mickelson pay-per-view event. Turner said it would issue refunds for those who paid $19.99 to stream the match play event. Other carriers, including Comcast, Charter and Cox also said they would issue refunds. Also discussed on the podcast is the new labor contract between the National Lacrosse League and its players, and whether it's actually a good thing for the future of the league and sport. Also talked about is the death of Houston Texans owner Bob McNair. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-WilliamsProducer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chuck Baker, co-chair of the sports industry group at O'Melveny, joins Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including how sports transactions have changed over the years. Baker also talks about the investment climate in sports, who is buying professional franchises and why they're doing it. Also discussed is why valuations across the major pro sports landscape are rising, and why they'll continue to do so in the future. Baker also touches on how media and real estate are becoming tent poles for sports investment, and how the breadth of his firm helps complete deals. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Bob BraggSee 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 rising valuations of Major League Soccer teams. Atlanta United is, according to Forbes, worth a league-leading $330 million, followed by the LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders. Also discussed is the NCAA's reversal of its decision regarding an athlete whose parents disowned her, prompting friends to start a GoFundMe page that has amassed more than $100,000 in donations. The trio also discusses Amazon's interest in the regional sports networks being sold by Disney as part of its $71 billion asset purchase from Fox. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Bob BraggSee 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 Jerry Jones's assertion that his Dallas Cowboys are worth $10 billion. Jones bought the team in 1989 for a then-record $150 million. Jones also said he'd never sell the NFL club. Also discussed is Major League Baseball's $5 billion extension with Fox, netting owners a 36 percent average annual increase over the existing deal. The agreement keeps marquee properties like the World Series and All-Star Game with Fox after its parent completes the $71 billion sale of assets to Walt Disney Co. Also discussed is MLB's three-year digital rights deal with John Skipper-led DAZN. It will deliver a live show each weeknight via the company's digital sports streaming platform. Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams Producer: Colin TiptonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

University of Notre Dame Athletic Director Jack Swarbrick joins Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including this weekend's big game against Syracuse University at Yankee Stadium. Swarbrick also talks about the football team's independent status, its TV deal with NBC, and how the school is thinking about the future of content in a changing media landscape. Also discussed is Swarbrick's take on the problems associated with legalized sports betting and whether student-athletes should be compensated. Also discussed is the team's stadium, which was recently renovated, and what's the correct pronunciation of the school's name. Hosts: Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr 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 National Football League's decision to move Monday Night's game to Los Angeles from Mexico City after it was determined the field wasn't up to league standards. Also discussed is Calgary's vote against hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics, which continues a trend of cities opting against becoming hosts of the world's biggest sporting event. And, finally, the trio talks about the Golden State Warriors newest ticket plan: a $100 monthly pass that allows fans entry to the arena without a view of the court. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr 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 comments made by Bill James, who spearheaded the use of Sabermetrics in baseball. James, an adviser to the Boston Red Sox, suggested that players are commodities and that replacing all of them would make no difference in the game. Also discussed is Nascar’s intention of buying up International Speedway Corp. stock and what it means for a possible minority share of the auto race league. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Bob BraggSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rick Burton, the David B. Falk Endowed Professor of Sport Management at Syracuse University, joins Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including the fiasco surrounding USA Gymnastics and what it's dissolution could mean for the athletes and broadcaster NBC. Also discussed are possible governance changes at the NCAA and why the organization's structure limits its ability to make alterations in major college sports. Burton also talks about what he considers to be the most important things students seeking to enter the sports world must learn. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr 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 U.S. Olympic Committee's moving to revoke USA Gymnastics' status as the governing body for the sport at the Olympic level. It's a move that comes in response to an organization that has seemingly botched its own restructuring after the Larry Nassar sex abuse scandal. Also talked about is NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's concern that teams are spending too much money as they chase a championship, and players from the National Hockey League's Ottawa Senators caught on tape criticizing the team's coach during an Uber ride. 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 the National Football League's new deal with Epic Games that allows Fortnite players to buy customized jerseys based on their favorite teams. The jerseys will cost about $15 of in-game currency. Also discussed is the decision by Fanatics to nix its deal with Nascar to sell merchandise at tracks just four years into a 10-year agreement. The Fanatics tent was designed as a one-stop shop that housed merchandise from every team. Also talked about was the New Year's eve matchup between boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa. Mayweather has never fought in MMA. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr 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 New York Mets's decision to hire agent Brodie Van Wagenen as their new general manager. Prior to his hire, Van Wagenen represented a number of current Mets, including star pitcher Jacob deGrom, and there have been concerns about the conflict of interest. Also discussed is the University of Maryland’s decision to fire its football coach, one day after saying he would stay on following the death a player, and Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia's criticism of a journalist.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr 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 rash of sports betting deals taking place. Among them are the National Hockey League, which, like the NBA, inked a partnership with MGM, and the Devils and 76ers struck a deal with Caesars. Also discussed is the University of Maryland's decision to retain its football coach in the wake of an investigation into the death of one of its players, and World Wrestling Entertainment's event taking place in Saudi Arabia. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr 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 LA 2028 and the USOC's hiring of Legends (owned in part by the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys) to sell some $2.5 billion in corporate sponsorship. They also talk about the brewing feud between the family of Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen and the trust running the team. Bill Bowlen, the brother of Pat, is asking a Colorado court to remove the three members of a trust that is running the club while his brother battles Alzheimer's. Also discussed is Epic Games Inc.'s $1.25 billion investment round from a coalition that includes KKR, Vulcan and Kleiner Perkins. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Los Angeles Dodgers Chief Financial Officer Tucker Kain joins Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Elon Musk's planned `Dugout Loop' tunnel, which would help the fans of L.A. to avoid the notorious traffic. Kain also discussed renovations to Dodger Stadium, the team's accelerator project, global ambitions, the team's television deal, and whether Guggenheim Baseball Management will sell a minority stake of the franchise. He also talked about the purchase from Frank McCourt for a then-record $2.15 billion dollars. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee 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 a new proposal from the NBA's G League that would pay elite prospects that choose to skip college $125,000. It's the latest attempt to dissuade highly touted prospects from pursuing what's become known as one-and-done, whereby they attend college for one season and then depart for the pros. Also discussed are the sale of Fox's regional sports networks and the battle between MSG boss James Dolan and Entercom. Also talked about was Grant Hill's lifetime contract with Fila, and Darius Bazley taking a $1 million internship with New Balance after first skipping college and then the G League. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lacrosse player Paul Rabil joins Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr to discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, focusing on the launch of his new venture, The Premier Lacrosse League. Rabil talks about what went into planning and, ultimately, launching the venture. He also discusses the broadcast contract with NBC Sports Group, the pitch to investors and the league's path to profitability. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

IndyCar driver Scott Dixon discusses a host of issues related to the business of sports, including what his particular sport is doing to drive interest in not only the U.S. but around the world. Dixon talks about fan engagement and how new media can possibly drive interest in IndyCar. He also discusses the important of sponsorship, and which companies and sectors are likely to participate in the sport. Dixon also talks about the dangers of IndyCar and what's being done to make driving safer. He also touches on New York City traffic. Dixon, a native of New Zealand, is a five-time IndyCar Series champion. He also won the 2008 Indy 500. This was his 18th season driving for Chip Ganassi Racing, the longest tenure in team history.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr 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 what may happen to the Seattle Seahawks and Portland Trail Blazers after the death of their owner, Paul Allen. The Microsoft co-founder's estate hasn't said what it intends to do with the pro sports franchises. Also discussed in Nick Bosa's decision to leave the Ohio State football team in order to prepare for the NFL draft. Also talked about was Canelo Alvarez's 11-fight, $365 million deal with DAZN, which launched in the U.S. in September. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr. 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 whether Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan will be able to buy Wembley Stadium, which is part of his plan to make London his football team's part time home. Also discussed is Jimmy Haslam's purchase of Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew, which likely would have relocated to Austin, Texas, without a new owner. And also talked about is the continuing developments from a federal trial that threatens to engulf college basketball. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael BarrProducer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reebok Chief Executive Officer Matt O'Toole discusses a host of topics related to the business of sports, including how Reebok is redefining itself with customers. O'Toole talks about the company's deals ... not with sports leagues and teams, but with NASA -- yes, NASA -- UFC and CrossFit. O'Toole also talks about sneaker design and technology, and why Allen Iverson is still on the payroll. O'Toole is responsible for Reebok's strategy, product, marketing and business around the world. He's a 25-year veteran of the sports apparel and equipment industry. He previously worked as president of Reebok North America. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr. 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 Major League Baseball's final four: Boston-Houston and the Dodgers and Brewers. They examine the matchups from a number of perspectives, including what it means for television ratings. They also discuss a new partnership between Justin Timberlake and Kobe Bryant, who are in talks to create programs for NewTV, a startup that aims to bring HBO-like quality to short videos. NewTV was started by Jeffrey Katzenberg, the longtime head of DreamWorks Animation, and Meg Whitman, the former CEO of EBay and Hewlett-Packard. Also talked about is Tokyo's skyrocketing spending on the 2020 Olympic Games. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr. Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a pair of topics related to the business of sports, including the fallout of the post-match UFC brawl over the weekend. After beating Conor McGregor in the lightweight title fight, Khabib Nurmagomedov jumped into the crowd to go after one of McGregor's coaches, and members of Nurmagomedov's entourage fought with McGregor. There could be legal fallout, as well as fines and suspensions from UFC. Also discussed was the falling stock price of Italian soccer club Juventus, whose star Cristiano Ronaldo was recently accused of sexual assault. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta Braves Chief Executive Officer Derek Schiller discusses a number of topics related to the business of baseball, including the team's real estate investment surrounding SunTrust Park. Schiller also talks about the team's financial commitment to the project, and the role that it played in the baseball club securing public money for the stadium. He also talks about the changing role of stadiums, food pricing and even the intricacies of parking -- yes parking. He also discusses what it's like running a sports team as part of a public company.Schiller was elevated to CEO after serving as the club's president of business. He's responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the team's business functions. He is the son of longtime sports executive Harvey Schiller.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including Seattle's inching closer to getting a National Hockey League team. The team's investment group met with some NHL owners and officials earlier this week to pitch their plan for getting a team. Also discussed is Major League Baseball's attendance dip this season. For the first time since 2003, MLB's total attendance fell below 70 million. All told, 12 teams posted attendance increases while 17 saw declines. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams discuss a host of issues related to the business of sports, including whether the first trial in the NCAA corruption case will be a litmus test for others. Also discussed is the National Basketball Association's banning of a J.R. Smith corporate logo tattoo, Earl Thomas being carted off the field -- and flashing the middle finger -- and a pair of baseball tiebreakers on the same day. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

G2 Esports Owner and Chief Executive Carlos Rodriguez discusses a number of topics related to the burgeoning business of professional video game competitions, including team valuations that are eclipsing $200 million. He breaks down how esports franchises make money -- hint: it’s a bit different from traditional sports leagues -- and what he thinks the industry can learn from the NFL and NBA. Rodriguez was a successful professional gamer before making the move into ownership, catching the industry right as it began its rapid expansion. G2 is one of biggest global esports brands, with teams competing in 11 different game titles, including League of Legends, Fortnite, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the news that lacrosse star Paul Rabil, with backing from -- among others -- The Raine Group, is starting his own outdoor lacrosse league. Players in the six-club Premier Lacrosse League will be full-time employees, get health insurance and equity. The PLL already has agreements with many players from Team USA and Canada. Also discussed are Nike's earnings, which impressed Wall Street but had little room for upside with the stock trading near record levels. Also talked about is the Army-Oklahoma football game, which went to overtime and was only available via pay-per-view. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including Tiger Woods's win at the Tour Championship and what it means for the player and sport of golf. NBC's final round coverage of the tournament posted a 5.21 overnight rating, up 206% from last year. It's also the highest-rated PGA Tour telecast of 2018, excluding majors. Also discussed are the implications for Woods's upcoming head-to-head matchup against Phil Mickelson. The hosts also talk about whether Lionel Messi and Barcelona will actually play a regular-season game in Miami, and Detroit's win over New England and whether there are any longer-term implications for the league and Patriots. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BSE Global Chief Executive Officer Brett Yormark discusses a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the worldwide opportunities being driven by Brooklyn as a brand. He also discusses the company's desire to expand internationally, including London. Yormark talks about the Brooklyn Nets, and the company's real estate holdings, which include venues like the Barclays Center, Nassau Coliseum and Webster Hall. He also touches on the NBA's growth and the future of media. Yormark oversees the business enterprise that manages and controls the Brooklyn Nets, Barclays Center, New York Islanders business operations, Nassau Coliseum and other entities. He oversaw all aspects of the Nets move to Brooklyn from New Jersey in 2012. Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including a proposed boycott by NFL hall-of-famers unless the league provides them insurance and salaries. Many high-profile HOF players (Eric Dickerson, Marcus Allen, Jim Brown, for example) say they would not attend the annual induction ceremony until they receive a share of league revenue. Also discussed is University of Wisconsin-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank's testimony that the school could drop its athletic program if it has to start paying student athletes. In addition, the trio talks about a unanimous decision by Major League Lacrosse owners to increase the salary cap by 51 percent, which will lead to higher salaries. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the second week of the National Football League season. Among the items bantered about are the mid-game retirement of Vontae Davis, Ryan Fitzpatrick (or is that Conor McGregor) and ratings that are, once again, higher than last season's corresponding week. Also discussed are the Canelo-GGG fight, which may lead to a third installment of the series, and Formula 1's focus on technology-related sponsorship. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DraftKings Chief Executive Officer Jason Robins discusses a number of topics related to the business of sports, including what has happened at his company in the months since the U.S. Supreme Court allowed for legalized sports betting. Robins also talks about audience measurement and engagement, and the popularity of daily fantasy in the wake of sports betting. Robins also discusses his company's advertising plan, whether DraftKings may soon become a public company and whether his NFL owner investors (Jerry Jones and Bob Kraft) may have to sell their stakes. He also notes the advice he got from Patriots executive Jonathan Kraft. Robins co-founded the company in 2012 and oversees its strategy and operations. DraftKings became the first daily fantasy sports company to sign a league partnership, with Major League Baseball in 2013. Now it also has deals with the NHL and Nascar. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the financial implications of Hurricane Florence on college football. A number of schools have canceled or rescheduled their games as the Category 4 storm heads for the East Coast. Also discussed is a video made by Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk, and the mushrooming business of youth sports. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the television ratings from the first week of the National Football League's regular season. Also discussed are the business implications of the ongoing risk of head trauma from playing contact sports. The trio also discusses the U.S. Tennis Open's women's championship match, which was marred by an altercation between Serena Williams and the umpire. The match was eventually won by Naomi Osaka, whose signature win buoys a host of off-court endorsement opportunities for the first tennis player from Japan to win a Grand Slam singles tournament. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former professional boxer and current promoter Oscar De La Hoya discusses a number of topics related to the business of sports, including next weekend's rematch between Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez. De La Hoya also discusses the state of boxing, what the new media landscape means for the sport and how he goes about creating new superstars that can draw viewers. De La Hoya also talks about boxing judges, the Olympics and whether there's room for boxing alongside mixed martial arts.De La Hoya, known as ``The Golden Boy,'' won a gold medal at the 1992 Olympics at the age of 19 and went on to win 10 world titles in six weight classes. He was one of the most popular boxers in history, generating hundreds of millions from pay-per-view events. He retired in 2009. He founded Golden Boy Promotions in 2002. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including Nike's decision to sign former quarterback Colin Kaepernick to a contract extension that makes him one of the faces of the company's 30-year celebration of its ``Just Do It'' campaign. The announcement triggered a wave of reaction, positive and negative, including a tweet from President Donald Trump. Also discussed is Nike's motivation for the agreement, the company's strategy and execution and Kaepernick's long-term endorsement potential. Host: Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr Producer: Madena ParwanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including former San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Keapernick's recent arbitration victory. The ruling means that Kaepernick's collusion claims against the NFL will go to trial, likely forcing league owners and executives to testify in court. Also discussed are the ongoing attendance woes in college sports, and Amazon's rough debut streaming U.S. Open tennis in the U.K.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home Depot co-founder Arthur Blank, owner of the NFL's Atlanta Falcons and MLS's Atlanta United, discusses a number of topics related to the business of sports, including why he won't fine players for protesting during the National Anthem. Blank also talks about why soccer has captivated Atlanta, drawing some 70,000-plus fans to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and what's driving the valuations of MLS teams. He also talks about the stadium's community pricing model, whereby food vendors charge about what the item would cost in the areas surrounding the stadium. Blank also talks about Home Depot's onetime sponsorship of Tony Stewart's Nascar team, and what the sport needs to do to revive itself.A native of Flushing, New York, Blank attended Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan and competed in football, baseball and track. He co-founded The Home Depot in 1978 and retired from the company as co-chairman in 2001. He bought the Falcons the following year.Hosts: Scott Soshnick, Michael Barr and Eben Novy-Williams. Producer: Madena Parwana. This is a Bloomberg podcast. To download, watch or listen to this report now, click on the thumbnail/player on the sidebar.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the Chicago Cubs decision to pull away from their partnership with NBC Sports Chicago -- and start their own television venture. The Cubs have hired former MSG Network President and St. Louis Blues CEO Mike McCarthy to lead the TV venture. Also discussed is Amazon's hiring of former ESPN executive Marie Donoghue to oversee sports for Prime Video. Donoghue spent 19 years at ESPN and left the network last year. The duo also talk about Northern Illinois's novel approach to encouraging students to attend football games: Show up for the chance to win $100.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the French Open’s decision to bar Serena Williams from wearing a black, full-body outfit that’s known as a Catsuit. French Tennis Federation President Bernard Giudicelli told Tennis Magazine that one must respect the game and the place. Williams sponsor Nike responded in an ad, saying “You can take the superhero out of her costume, but you can never take away her superpowers.” Also discussed are radio host Mike Francesa’s new digital offering, and one company’s decision to drop its sponsorship of a race car driver in response to comments allegedly made by his father decades ago. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

United States Tennis Association Chief Revenue Officer Lew Sherr discusses a host of issues related to the business of sports -- and the U.S. Open in particular -- including what’s driving revenue at America's annual tennis grand slam. Sherr talks about everything from the roofs atop the National Tennis Center's biggest stadiums to why President Donald Trump won't be attending this year. Sherr also discusses sponsorship value, concession prices and what his organization does with the money that it takes in. He also talks about player seeding and matches that go long into the night. Sherr is responsible for all commercial and business development for the US Open, USTA and its affiliated programs. He oversees broadcast, sponsorship, ticketing and hospitality businesses, driving growth in recent years. Sherr joined the USTA in 2010. Prior to that he worked at Madison Square Garden, serving as senior VP or marketing partnerships. He graduated from Duke University, where he received both his undergraduate degree and MBA. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the effect new NFL rules changes, aimed at making the gamer safer, might have on the league this season. The new rules have drawn confusion and criticism from coaches, players and fans during preseason. The trio also discuss new kind of season ticket package for fans of the Buffalo Sabres. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the addition of esports to this year's Asian Games. Competitive video gaming, which is exploding in popularity among younger consumers, will be a demonstration sport in Jakarta later this month, and is under consideration for inclusion in the Olympics. Also discussed are the University of Alabama's plan to invest $600 million into its athletic facilities over the next 10 years, and the Pawtucket Red Sox's stadium shuffle, which will have the minor league baseball team moving to Worchester, Massachusetts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sportradar Chief Executive Officer Carsten Koerl discusses a host of issues related to the business of sports, including what's driving the value of data in professional sports. He also talks about the company's prospects in the U.S., and how investors like Mark Cuban, Ted Leonsis and Michael Jordan are helping to drive deals and revenue. Koerlalso discusses sports betting in the U.S. and the need for data among media companies that broadcast sports. Koerl has strategically led all aspects of Sportradar's business since founding the company in 2001. Private equity firm EQT recently sold its stake in Sportradar in a deal that valued the company at $2.4 billion. Koerl didn't sell shares. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Eben Novy-Williams travel to San Francisco and speak with Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown, who was among the participants at the second annual Players Technology Summit. The event, which is Co-sponsored by Bloomberg, brings together venture capitalists, entrepreneurs and athletes for a day of discussion about how they can all work together. Brown speaks about his background in venture capital, his NBA platform, a sports world with legalized betting and what he hopes to achieve on- and off the court in the future. Other attendees at the event were former 49ers quarterback Joe Montana and former NBA MVP Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the Business of Sports, including fans don't have to get out of their seats to get a beer at Dodger Stadium. Also discussed are the ratings for Fox and the World Cup. When you factor in the bars and parties watching the games, the ratings are better than first thought. Also, Tiger Woods and a strong second place finish behind Brooks Koepka in the PGA Championship is just what the golf TV broadcasters needed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oak View Group co-founder Tim Leiweke discusses a host of issues related to the business of sports, including how his group is transforming the old Key Arena in Seattle as it prepares to land a hockey and basketball team. He also talks about the technological evolution in sports, and how it affects the distribution of content as well as the in-arena experience. Leiweke also talks about facilities management and what drives revenue for owners of sports teams, which nowadays are only centerpieces of much more elaborate business ventures focused on sectors like real estate or media. He also touches on President Trump's tariffs and what they mean for builders of a new arena. Leiweke is a former chief executive officer of AEG, which operates Staples Center, and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, which owns and operates, among others, the Toronto Maple Leafs. Leiweke founded Oak View Group with music industry veteran Irving Azoff. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the arrest of Nascar boss Brian France for driving while intoxicated. France has since taken an indefinite leave at a time when the auto racing circuit is seeking a minority investor. Also discussed are LeBron James's programs with Showtime and CBS, and the suspension of a number of North Carolina football players for selling school-issued merchandise. In all, 13 players were suspended, including quarterback Chazz Surratt. The NCAA approved a request to stagger some of the suspensionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Soshnick, Eben Novy-Williams and Michael Barr discuss a number of topics related to the business of sports, including the Boston Red Sox sweep of the New York Yankees and the possible ramifications to YES Network's ratings later in the season. Also discussed is the upcoming retirement of PepsiCo Inc. Chief Executive Officer Indra Nooyi, who oversaw one of the dominant global sports sponsors. Nooyi, 62, will step down in October and remain chairman until early 2019. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.