SBJ Morning Buzzcast

Austin Karp, Joe Lemire, Rob Schaefer and Chris Smith look back at the key themes from yesterday's Media Innovators -- including content delivery and the future of sports bundles. The group also looks ahead to today's Dealmakers conference and how private equity will be in the spotlight throughout the day. Timestamps00:06 – Intro: Austin Karp kicks off from Times Square00:32 – Biggest takeaway: Discoverability challenges for sports media01:19 – Wall Street analysts on ESPN-YouTube TV deal & Paramount Global02:03 – Cord-cutting vs cable: Matt Ho’s bullish stance02:31 – AI in sports content: PGA Tour, NBA, and Genius Sports innovations04:32 – Content delivery trends: Ingestion, streaming bundles, TikTok impact05:53 – Spotlight on John Fanta’s broadcasting journey06:29 – Dealmakers preview: Private equity, tech, and new investment ideas07:12 – Heavy hitters panel: Future of Sports Capital with KKR, Sixth Street, Redbird07:46 – Morning sessions: Sports tech disruptors & athlete investment strategies08:56 – Closing thoughts: NBA expansion in Europe and key storylines Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The NFL's big weekend in Spain; Inside Google's big deal with Disney; and could the CFP expand to 16? Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Austin Karp: MLS and Apple switch things up; the Padres go on the market; No peace deal yet with Disney and Google; and the NFL tries a novel legal theory. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Joe Lemire: MLS likely to adopt new schedule; AUSL goes regional; Versant adds Pac 12 games; NCAA set to settle with volunteer coaches. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Arthur Blank's big investment in NWSL; Shaun White gets more back; Goldman Sachs bullish on Excel Sports and Gary Stevenson to turn in his cleats Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A conversation with Rick Welts; the NWSL gets a top owner/operator in Atlanta and why the PWHL's Takeover Tour works. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tagliabue's incredible legacy; Orlando gets its NFL audition; and volunteer opportunities for LA28 Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

ESPN and Penn terminate online sports betting relationship with ESPN moving to DraftKings; Paul DePodesta to return to baseball as head of baseball operations with Colorado Rockies; Texans’ owners join LOVB with Houston franchise and NWSL viewership up for 2025. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike signs with Project B; Fanatics touts strong World Series merchandise sales; The Battery continues to big revenue driver and the NWSL’s advisory board Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How the Spurs messaged a win at the voting booth; few surprises in top U.S. World Series markets; Saudi's investment in golf grows and the path to growing ticket sales Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Election Day and eyes on Spurs arena vote; Jones/Bettman go big in Dallas; Blitzer gets behind the creator economy and Paramount gets behind Pro Cheer League Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

MLB's shining moment that has everyone talking; takeaways from World Series; cities line up for Rugby World Cup '31 Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

World Series buzz in Toronto; WNBA and WNBPA agree to CBA extension; NASCAR enters championship weekend as lawsuit remains unsettled; Scott Woodward out as LSU AD and a big week for Mark Walter. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The toughest job in sports business; Sankey speaks and NCAA reacts; Dallas' dilemma and where's the buzz around NASCAR's final weekend? Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Josh Carpenter: An ugly week for the WNBA as the CBA deadline looms, the WTA finds a new leader and a strong start on TV for the World Series. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

MLS' spending in the news; U.S. Soccer shows commercial strength; Royals poach key exec from D'backs Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What to watch in the NBA; Excel Sports nears big investment; off-the-field takeaways from the World Series Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alleged betting scandal rocks NBA; Amazon tips off for first time; World Series starts; Messi re-signs in Miami Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NBA feeling a whole lotta love; a name to watch in Miami and the sports calendar shifting in '27 Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The NBA's big night; WNBPA irked at Silver's comments and expansion for $100, please Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What to watch for as NBA tips off; U.S. Women's World Cup bid comes into shape and a unique sponsor in golf Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

F1's shift; Bob Myers' big move and executive moves at the PGA Tour Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

F1 in the spotlight in Austin; Bay FC targets a CEO and takeaways from the biggest stories of the week.0:06 What is your favorite streaming service?0:27 Big Weekend for F11:04 Apple Sports portfolio and future1:55 Tim Leiweke Trial pushed back3:25 WNBA All Star Game will be in Chicago3:59 Early ticket sales for the FIFA World Cup5:10 MLS concludes its 30th season6:06 Bay FC looking for a new CEO7:41 Biggest Takeaways from the week Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NBA pushes teams on fan behavior; Belmont Park reno on time and on budget; new leagues for $100 and SEC says goodbye to longtime leader.0:06 What is Your Favorite Streaming Service?0:27 MLB Postseason1:24 Pro League Wiffel ball3:17 NBA addressing Fan Behavior4:37 Belmont Park Renovation6:00 Athletes as a fashion brand, Angel Reese7:20 Tampa Bay Sports Commission Executive Director Opening8:47 Mark Womack Remembered10:18 Four Key. Takeaways Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LOVB to expand to SoCal; Are there holdouts to Big Ten PE infusion? Nike honors its founder and David and Nicole Tepper support major sports marketing academic initiative.0:12 LOVB EXPANDING TO LOS ANGELES2:10 PRIVATE EQUITY AND THE BIG TEN CONFERENCE3:55 FORMULA 1 LOOKS TO EXPAND US FAN BASE5:18 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS’ NEW HIP MEMBERSHIP CLUB6:46 NIKE RENAMED CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AS THE PHILIP H KNIGHT CAMPUS7:53 DAVID TEPPER INVESTS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA9:18 FOUR KEY TAKEAWAYS Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Takeaways from MLB's post-season; Browns clear final hurdle for mega-stadium and more investments in women's sports facilities.00:12 MLB NLCS PREVIEW02:42 CLEVELAND BROWNS NEW STADIUM04:44 PENN STATE MOVES ON FROM JAMES FRANKLIN06:50 SBJ HONOR ROLL 2025 PROGRAM8:53 DETRIOT PISTONS NEW PRACTICE FACILITY FOR WNBA10:10 FOUR KEY TAKEAWAYS Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The WNBA heads into pivotal off-season; The dealmaker behind the NBA's return to China and Jessica Berman gets a contract extension.0:11 NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman Signs Extension2:45 NBA’s successful return to China4:33 WNBA season review and look ahead6:16 Tampa Bay Rays bonuses7:19 Savannah Bananas8:48 As new ballpark9:28 Four Key Takeaways Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NBA's future vision for China; NFL's future vision for Pro Bowl and Islanders bring on a new biz leader Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NCAA a step closer on jersey ads; anxiety in Chicago; Early World Cup ticket demand strong and welcome to MARI Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NHL drops the puck; Rays owners meet with good reviews; UFL shifts strategy and Heisman Trophy Trust gets a new CEO Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Milwaukee Brewers finding success with limited payroll; the growing trend of small event venues near large stadiums and arenas continues; college sports revenue-generation strategies and the WNBA CBA deadline could be extended. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A busy weekend for the WNBA, and could the Dallas Stars be on the move? Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WNBA Finals start amid tension; Jimmy Haslam's frank comments on MLS and takeaways from the week Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New day for Rays; PGA of America responds to Ryder Cup criticism; a big week in NOLA and is the Big 10 getting closer to PE deal? Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WNBA leadership above the fold; VA Tech's massive investment in sports and why a salary floor matters to Rob Manfred Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steve Cohen offers an apology; Tourism boards continue to spend in sports and bold-face names in the news Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Baseball's big month; Ohtani again tops jersey sales; Ryder Cup fallout and three MLS markets close on stadium solutions Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Game Changers wrap up; Ryder Cup’s big weekend; Patriots get PE capital; and NYCFC’s new home.00:12 Game Changers Recap02:08 Ryder Cup 03:46 Sixth Street acquires 3% of New England Patriots05:35 Politicians sign leader raising concerns with antitrust issues with ESPN and the NFL06:20 MLB media rights06:47 NYFC building first soccer stadium in New York City Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Jenn Azara and Rachel Axon: A look back at Wednesday night's high-energy ceremony celebrating the 15th class of SBJ Game Changers. Jenn and Rachel also discuss what to look forward to during today's Game Changers conference. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Austin Karp: Automated balls and strikes are coming to MLB; BetMGM Sportsbook shuts down at Nationals Park; Expansion talk a foot at meetings for college basketball and football; and USC-Rutgers draws an audience at 11pm ET. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Joe Lemire: NFL to begin regular season schedule in Europe this Sunday; WNBA popularity rising among males; ACC moving to 9-game conference football schedule and MLB owners approve Tampa Bay Rays sale. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ryder Cup week; Dodgers' impressive run include 4 million at the gate; CBS Sports throws it back to '75 and more investment in women's sports Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Behavior science and sports' affordability; More expansion coming for PWHL; Laver Cup sells out and a longtime exec shifts to a NASCAR team.0:11 Takeaways from the AXS DRIVE conference1:34 AXS DRIVE Tours discussion2:12 Stan Kasten talks about PWHL expansion3:17 Cover Story on the need for better officiating and quicker reviews5:12 MLS news: Lionel Messi and Inter Miami extension6:36 Laver Cup preview7:48 RFK Racing's New President Chip Bowers9:19 Apple's F1 The Movie sequel9:43 Four Takeways Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Austin Karp, Joe Lemire, Bret McCormick, and Chris Smith: Takeaways from AXS Drive including what the industry is talking about moving forward. Also, a preview of the SBJ Sports Media podcast. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Austin Karp, Joe Lemire, Bret McCormick, and Chris Smith: Legends Global has acquired Nations Group in a deal that enhances Legends Global's owners' representation business and grows its presence in college sports; a look back at Day 1 of AXS Drive and what to look forward to in Day 2. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Start your morning with Buzzcast with Joe Lemire, Austin Karp and Bret McCormick: A longtime ESPN on-air talent set to move on from ESPN; an inside look at the mixed-use project in Anaheim that includes the Honda Center and a preview of Day 1 at AXS Drive. Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A big week ahead at SBJ's AXS DRIVE in Los Angeles, diving into a newsy weekend in combat sports, and the WNBA postseason tips off Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vegas eyes '29 Super Bowl; Rivalry apparel sets records for Fanatics; MLS' newest draw and a Daily milestone Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Takeaways from leaving Las Vegas; FIFA's early presale woes and trends in new buildings and on campus Sign up for SBJ 360, our free, daily newsletter. SBJ 360 delivers a concise, high-level overview of the most important stories shaping the sports industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.