Scott Fisher

Last night Jaylen Brown led the Boston Celtics to the NBA Championship, becoming the first player to win the NBA Finals MVP award without a signature sneaker deal in more than 40 years. Brown has long been an outspoken critic of brands' performance basketball offerings since the expiration of his Adidas deal in 2021. Sneakerheads have shared these concerns for several years, citing a lack of originality and innovation in the marketing and design of signature basketball shoes. But there are signs that the category is staging a comeback. A new generation of young talents, new designs and bold marketing are reviving interest in athletes’ lines. The NBA Finals was a guaranteed win for Nike's Jordan Brand, who saw two of its signature athletes — Jayson Tatum and Luka Doncic — going head-to-head. Meanwhile, Anta secured a landmark finals appearance for the Anta Kai 1, its debut signature sneaker with Kyrie Irving. Adidas produced unquestionably the basketball sneaker of the year with the AE 1, boosted by the standout performances and on-the-pulse marketing which highlighted the charisma of Anthony Edwards, who led the Timberwolves in a deep playoff run. On resale platform StockX, trades of the top 15 signature sneaker lines are up 37 percent year-on-year, said Drew Haines, merchandising director for sneakers and collectables. It's one of several signs that the tide might be turning for a category which has stagnated of late. Read the full story on The Business of Fashion today.

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The Dallas-Ft. Worth Metro area continues to EXPLODE in the Sports Industry... 💥 💥💥 - Dallas Cowboys are the 1st sports franchise to surpass a $10B valuation (according to Sportico) - Dallas Wings are now the highest valued WNBA franchise following a new investment (according to Sports Business Journal) - Dallas welcomes a new United Soccer League (USL) franchise in 2024: Dallas Trinity FC - Texas Rangers Baseball Club winning the 2023 World Series and hosting the 2024 MLB All-Star Game (bringing $$$ into the region) - Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks coming out of 2024 Conference Finals and NBA Finals, respectively - while the Mavs get new majority owners BUT... here are the ones we don't talk about much: - The 2025 Dallas Open upgraded to an ATP 500 level event now being held at the The Star in Frisco (Tennis is exploding) - Dallas is one of the four inaugural American Flag Football League (AFFL) teams (Flag Football is way more inclusive than tackle football) - Dallas is home to the National Cricket League USA and Major League Cricket (Cricket is the 2nd most watched sport behind soccer globally ... where I live in North Texas I see more cricket being played than any other recreational sport) By the way, these last three I just mentioned are all LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games Sports!

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Diamond Sports Group: A New Playbook for the Digital Era? Emerging from bankruptcy with a leaner structure and a bold partnership with FanDuel, Diamond Sports is reshaping its strategy in the face of shifting viewer habits and a declining RSN market. But can this new direction sustain long-term growth in the competitive sports media and iGaming landscape? Read the full story to explore Diamond's challenges, innovations, and prospects: https://lnkd.in/d46fRT3k #SiGMANews #USMarket #SportsBetting

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As The Running Event continues in Austin this week, I think about the shifting demographics in the sport, and how that has altered the product landscape as the consumer tells us what they need/want by voting every day with their wallets. Arguably the biggest prize and allure in Running over the last 10+ years has been the pursuit of a Sub 2-Hour Marathon time. Nike set up a Sub-2 Project Team in 2016, and in Chicago, they came closest with Kiptum’s 2:00:35 last year before his tragic death earlier this year (Kipchoge/Vienna aside). This is clearly a burning platform for Nike as the design language of their pinnacle distance product (e.g. Alphafly 3) cascades all the way down to their legacy training shoes (e.g. Pegasus 42), but is this Speed narrative a burning platform for the average consumer? Nike Running declined by a -7% CAGR according to their own annual reporting between 2017 and 2021 before ceasing to report SBU figures (-$1.3 B decline). It has not improved. Nike is not alone. Adidas Running has endured a similar fate over the same time period in pursuit of this same goal as the primary story for their brand, and it permeates throughout the design language for their product offerings. Both are chasing what is perceived as young and sexy. Meanwhile, Brooks surpassed $1 B by September of this year and is on pace for their best year ever. Hoka finished their FY 24 up 28%, and is likely to see the same performance in FY 25. ON most recently continued their momentum with 32% growth in 3Q 24. They are all succeeding, and taking share, by focusing on what the consumer really wants. Comfort and cushion in a stylish package that reinforces that product narrative. They are meeting the need set of the consumer and meeting them where they are (10-25 miles a week). Most people come to to the sport of Running after the age of 30 (53% according to a RW 2023 Survey), and they took up the sport and stay with it for reasons of general fitness (39%/42%). Reality is that men peak physically in their late 20’s and women in their 30’s. So, for most runners, the potential for a world record is in the rearview mirror before they start. These same runners continue to get older. The 17-point increase in Boston Marathon male participants that are ages 50+ (18.6% in 2000 vs. 35.6% in 2023) or the almost 19-point jump in Boston Marathon female participants that are ages 50+ (just 6.4% in 2000 vs. 24.9% in 2023) are evidence of this trend. The average runner in the U.S. is better-educated, higher-earning, and is 39 years old if they are female and 45 years old if they are a male. This is who the consumer is. I am not saying that brands shouldn’t pursue the excellence of pinnacle performance, but be realistic about what this can yield. Does the positioning and marketing of my product match the consumer I am trying to reach? Nike used to have an old aphorism that would ask, “Do want to make money, or do you want to make art”? I tend to prefer money myself.

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Exciting news in the sports media landscape as diamondsports group emerges from bankruptcy. This is a positive step for the industry, preserving a key distribution channel for teams and fans alike. However, while today’s headlines are encouraging for DSG and its partners, that doesn’t mean the RSN business model is fixed or even revitalized yet. In fact, DSG's emergence from bankruptcy indicates significant restructuring rather than a complete overhaul of its business model. While the company has reduced its debt from nearly $9 billion to around $200 million and rebranded itself as FanDuel Sports Network, the changes primarily involve operational adjustments and new partnerships rather than a fundamentally new approach to its business. Although the new plan offers a pathway to potential innovation in sports broadcasting, achieving long-term success will depend on overcoming the historical challenges of inflexibility and self-interest among leagues and teams. A new level of collaboration will be essential to develop a sustainable model that meets the evolving needs of fans while ensuring financial viability for all parties involved. It's tough to teach old dogs new tricks, but perhaps the time is right. Sometimes things need to get really bad before folks are willing to try new things. Affinity currency (i.e., branded points) can be the catalyst for profitable collaboration among all stakeholders in the local sports streaming ecosystem. And given their position in business, I believe RSNs are in the best position to implement sustainable, profitable loyalty systems in US spectator sports. By adopting an affinity currency approach akin to frequent flyer miles, RSNs could break down silos within the sports ecosystem. This would allow fans to leverage their loyalty points across multiple properties—teams, leagues, and partner brands—similar to how airline miles can be used across different carriers. Points can be used to drive viewership and subscriptions, create cohesive experience for fans, increased engagement with teams and sponsors, and potentially new revenue streams for RSNs as they adapt to changing consumer preferences. And as a common currency, points can allow each partner to earn its fair share. I’m being intentionally vague here because I don’t want to draw too fine a point or overshare prematurely. But suffice it to say, if you work for DSG, Chicago Sports Network, Marquee Sports Network, The Yesnetwork, NESN, or any other RSN and would like to explore an innovative new business model based on loyalty currencies, I’d love to chat.

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Everything you need to know in #SportsBiz today: 1. PSG considering Poissy site for new stadium, reports L’Équipe 2. TKO reports Q3 revenue up 52% year-on-year to $681.2m despite 11% fall in UFC earnings 3. Rain decimates F1 viewership in Sao Paulo as 531,000 tune into ESPN 4. Premier League clubs set for vote on sponsorship rule changes after Man City legal challenge 5. Atlanta Braves Holdings report Q3 revenue growth to $291m as baseball climbs 7% year-on-year 6. Amazon secures exclusive domestic rights to 38 Brasileiro Serie A games per season 7. Rory McIlroy suggests Donald Trump’s election could bring peace to golf and speculates at Musk role in negotiations 8. Premier Sports tells SportsPro of confidence in Champions Cup rugby to drive UK subscription growth 9. US consortium on verge of acquiring Sheffield United for £100m+, reports The Telegraph 10. Sportlogiq acquires cloud-based video solutions provider 8BY8 to enhance AI sports analytics 11. IPL auction for 2025 season to be held in Saudi Arabia 12. IOC President Thomas Bach renews dialogue on potential for Olympic Games in Africa 13. TNT Sports launches new initiative to support female filmmakers in telling untold women’s sports stories 14. Tennis Channel to launch direct-to-consumer streaming service on 12th November Keep your finger on the pulse with all the major stories and news announcements by checking out The Wire - our one-stop shop and super-feed of sports business news 👉 https://lnkd.in/dPrASgtA

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Part I: The NWSL and links to MCO through their investors Overview * NWSL formed 2012, began playing 2013 * Expanding to 16 teams 2026 * NWSL collective worth $1.46bn * 57% increase in franchise value 2023-24 * Collective revenues to pass $215m - 91% YoY * All teams to lose $5-10m 2024 * 4yr Broadcast Deal $240m ($4m per team per yr) * Min salary to increase $48-$82 by 2030 * Salary cap to increase $3.3M - $5.1M by 2030 * Attendance increased 42% in 24 passing 1m fans 3yrs in a row * 49 matches passed 10k fans * The Yates Report 2022 (investigation into systemic abuse and misconduct within NWSL) highlighted Thorns, North Carolina, Red Stars, Racing Louisville & Seattle Reign as all failing to protect players Seattle Reign  * Valued $78m * Franchise Fee $0  * Formed 2012 as Seattle Reign FC * 2019 renamed Reign FC due to a relocation (Tacoma) * 2020 OL Group paid $3.5m for 89.5%, name changed to OL Reign * 2024 Sold for $58m, reverted back to Seattle Reign FC * Between time of purchase and sale, OL Group changed ownership to Eagle Football Holdings *OL Groupe was financially distressed & sold OL Reign to Carlyle Group 50% & Adrian Hanauer, owner of Seattle Sounders, 2012 Alan was a past investor in Reign * Hanauer has a minority stake in NHL Seattle Kraken & previously held 15% in EFL Cambridge Utd early 00s * The Carlyle group (AuM $426bn)formed part of the financial vehicle Stephen Pagliuca consortium used to purchase Atalanta Bergamo FC  * Pagliuca acquired a 55% in the holding company that owns 86% of Atalanta for €250m in 2022 * Pagliuca is co-owner of Boston Celtics * Pagliuca in discussion to acquire Red Star FC (France) Portland Thorns  * Valued $93m * Franchise Fee $0 * Formed by Merritt Paulson (Peregrine Sports LLC) who owns Portland Timbers * As a result of the yates report sold the Thorns to RAJ Sports for $63m 2023 * RAJ Sports is led by the Bethal family * 2024 The Bhathal family was awarded WNBA's 15th franchise for Portland (Name TBC) to begin 2026 * The Bhathal family previously owned several Sacramento franchises * Other investors include Sam Garvin (Phoenix Suns) Angel City  * Valued $250m  * Franchise Fee $2m * Formed 2020  * Founding ownership group included Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, Eva Longoria * Longoria is part-owner of Club Necaxa & associated with Wrexham * 2024 Willow Bay and Bob Iger purchased 35% for $87.5m which valued the franchise at $250m * Their total investment is $137.5m providing $50m for operations  * Sept 2024 LAFC invest $50m acquiring a small stake * LAFC acquisition stems from warrants that were part of city stadium lease agreement. These warrants gave LAFC the rights to purchase shares. * Mia Hamm is a minority investor in both LAFC & Angel FC * LAFC own Grasshopper Club Zürich & Austrian club FC Wacker Innsbruck * LAFC formed a JV with FC Bayern (Red&Gold) which owns Racing Club de Montevideo (Uruguay) and Gambinos Stars (Gambia) #multiclubownership #footballbusiness #footballfinance

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Everything you need to know in #SportsBiz today:   1. FC Barcelona and Nike sign €1.7bn, 14-year kit deal extension covering all teams 2. Cincinnati Reds cut broadcast ties with Diamond Sports Group as MLB questions bankruptcy exit plan 3. Cricket West Indies (CWI) secures, all encompassing six-year media rights deal with ESPN Caribbean 4. Audi set to sell F1 team to Qatari sovereign wealth fund ahead of series entry, according to Joe Saward 5. Red Bull, PUMA Group, and Dove among 11 brands inducted into the 2024 Laureus Sport for Good Index 6. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell eyes eight international games in 2025, including Irish stop-off 7. NBA Academy to close locations in Australia and Mexico, prioritising other sites 8. Paramount adds 3.5m subscribers in Q3 as DTC revenue grows 10% year-on-year to $1.86bn 9. Fifa faces calls to halt vote awarding Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup due to human rights concerns 10. Swansea City owners Jason Levien and Steve Kaplan to sell majority stake to fellow shareholders, reports the BBC 11. Canadian Premier League plans expansion with two new teams by 2026 12. USL Super League players vote to unionise and join USLPA as part of collective bargaining agreement ratification process 13. F1 looks set to introduce rotational European events from 2026 Keep your finger on the pulse with all the major stories and news announcements by checking out The Wire - our one-stop shop and super-feed of sports business news 👉 https://lnkd.in/dPrASgtA

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Reading about The Players’​ Tribune’s (TPT) 10-year milestone in Digiday got me thinking about the evolution of athlete-driven media. No question that TPT has undeniably paved the way for athlete storytelling, giving sports a new, humanized dimension. But as we look to the future, the challenge still remains: How do we keep innovating in an increasingly saturated digital landscape? So, I would like to see the next decade focus on deeper fan connections, diverse multimedia storytelling, and leveraging first-party data to truly personalize the content experience. TPT’s success lies not just in amplifying athlete voices, but in creating a space where fans feel truly connected and relatable to those stories. And as tech and media evolve, well, so should our approach. We’ve seen the impact of athletes speaking on their own terms; now let’s push the boundaries on how we engage audiences and amplify these voices in more meaningful and influential ways. 🤔 Question (I'm curious): What would you say are your thoughts on the future of athlete-led media? -- And please don't say more athlete podcasts 😂

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SBJ's annual list of the Most Influential People in Sports Business is out! The influence of institutional investment in sports was undeniable in 2024. Across multiple leagues and nearly two dozen teams, these investments provided an infusion of cash that has been building for years and became a tidal wave this year. That investor demand is a reflection that America’s pro leagues comprise a resilient, high-growth asset class. More importantly, it’s also an indication that institutional investors in sports -- and the trillions of dollars they collectively manage -- are arguably now the single biggest driving force throughout the pro leagues. That wave propelled The Private Equity Investor to the top of SBJ’s Most Influential People in Sports Business list. No single person or company is at the top. Executives from seven leading firms or organizations in this sector are featured together, followed by individuals in 43 additional entries across league executives, media, brands, marketing, agencies and more.  https://lnkd.in/eqZhFg9U

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Diamond Sports Group’s bankruptcy case appears to be nearing a conclusion after more than 18 months. The regional sports broadcaster recently disclosed plans to shed 11 of the 12 Major League Baseball (MLB) team contracts held this past season as part of its reorg (including four that expired). Those clubs must now renegotiate terms with DSG or find an alternative local distribution solution for 2025 and beyond (note: Diamond remains contractually obligated to five). The latter does not necessarily mean a hard pivot from the established pay TV ecosystem. In fact, baseball, appears to be advising its clubs to remain in the cable bundle. While counter to the media narrative, it has become directionally obvious that guaranteed affiliate fee economics are the surest way to preserve local media revenues–even if the team’s new channel gets tiered and/or commands a lower sub fee than budget for (and after accounting for the macro decline in distribution). MLB would like to see its clubs supplement local cable television distribution with a direct-to-consumer streaming option (and perhaps a small number of OTA games). The league views that combination as the best approach to maximize reach and revenue. Most organizations look to be taking the direction. It was recently announced that MLB will handle production and distribution for the Cleveland Guardians, Milwaukee Brewers, and Minnesota Twins moving forward. The league has managed both for the Arizona Diamondbacks, San Diego Padres, and Colorado Rockies the last two years. In addition to those six clubs, the Chicago White Sox (Chicago Sports Network) and Texas Rangers have partnered on or are considering starting their own RSN projects. cc: Patrick Crakes Ryan Dastrup, PhD Randall Friedman Jacie Brandes JohnWallStreet #media #mediarights #sports #sportsbiz #cable #RSN #strategy https://lnkd.in/eG5crmsN

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Former NBA All-Star Jayson Williams Joins Oaktree Solutions to Launch Oaktree Sports Ventures. Oaktree Solutions, a global public affairs and venture consulting firm, has announced former NBA All-Star Jayson Williams as the new Managing Director of Oaktree Sports Ventures. This expansion introduces a full-service advisory focused on guiding professional athletes through sponsorship deals, financial planning, reputation management, and post-career transitions. Building on Oaktree’s equity partnership with Los Angeles-based talent firm AIGH, Williams will lead the firm’s athlete-focused initiatives, helping clients navigate the complexities of their careers — from college athletics to retirement. His mission is to secure opportunities, manage risks, and help athletes build meaningful, financially secure futures. “Oaktree Solutions is about delivering value in life’s most challenging situations,” said Frank V. Carone, founder and chairman of Oaktree Solutions. “Athletes face immense pressure, risk, and opportunity. Jayson’s experience on and off the court makes him the perfect leader to help them thrive under the spotlight and beyond.” Williams brings a wealth of insight from his 11-year NBA career, primarily with the New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn Nets), and his own post-career struggles. After overcoming personal challenges, Williams founded the Rebound Institute to support individuals battling substance abuse and reintegrating into society after incarceration. His passion for transformation aligns seamlessly with Oaktree’s vision, and he will also advise corporate and non-profit clients on connecting with the athletic community while addressing mental health and well-being. “My journey in the NBA and life after taught me that the highs and lows don’t last forever—it’s the people around you who matter most,” said Williams. “I’m proud to join Oaktree Sports Ventures to guide athletes in building their futures and to extend that impact to others seeking hope and opportunity. With Oaktree’s expertise in business, branding, and public affairs, we’re poised to help clients achieve greatness on and off the court.” Jayson Williams’ leadership marks a new era for Oaktree Solutions, positioning the firm as a powerhouse for empowering athletes in every stage of their lives.

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5 Learnings from Morgan Stanley's partnership with Serena Williams for modern CMOs Morgan Stanley has teamed up with Serena Williams on an eight part docu series. They’ll serve as presenting sponsor through collaboration with Disney Advertising. In the Arena: Serena Williams will land tonight on ESPN.+ And I love sports documentaries. What I love more, is when there's a story I can take to work afterwards. Morgan Stanley CMO explained how the move to sponsor the series was a natural fit for their marketing strategy. A strategy that has made amplifying women’s sports a priority. Here’s 5 learnings from the sponsorship and key reasons why Morgan Stanley leaned in 1️⃣ Leverage Authentic Storytelling By showcasing Serena's genuine journey, Morgan Stanley can connect with audiences on a personal level, reinforcing the brand's commitment to real, impactful narratives. 2️⃣ Engage with Inspirational Figures Partnering with a globally recognized figure like Serena Williams helps Morgan Stanley reach and resonate with a broader, more diverse audience. It demonstrates how aligning with influential personalities can enhance brand perception and engagement. 3️⃣ Highlight Personal and Professional Growth The series covers Serena's career and personal milestones, illustrating the power of both professional achievements and personal growth. This approach can humanize a brand and create deeper connections with the audience by showcasing relatable and aspirational stories​. 4️⃣ Utilize Multi-Platform Distribution By premiering the docuseries on ESPN+, Morgan Stanley taps into a multi-platform strategy that ensures wider reach and accessibility. This demonstrates the effectiveness of leveraging various media channels to maximize content visibility and engagement​. 5️⃣ Showcase Social and Cultural Impact The docuseries not only focuses on Serena's tennis career but also her cultural impact and personal challenges. Highlighting such themes can align a brand with broader social issues, fostering a positive brand image and demonstrating a commitment to societal values and progress​. Morgan Stanley’s move into women’s sports and other cultural avenues reflects a broader push to modernize the brand for a new generation of investors. A great case study for sports marketing 🔥 P.S. Follow me (Chris Swadling) for more sports business content! #sports #sportsbiz

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Everything you need to know in #SportsBiz today:   1. NBA All-Star Kevin Durant becomes minority shareholder in Paris Saint-Germain 2. Minnesota Timberwolves name Sezzle as new jersey patch partner 3. AB InBev agrees official beer deal with Nitro Circus and NITROCROSS 4. Serie B avoids domestic broadcast blackout as DAZN signs Italian rights deal through 2027 5. DAZN also lands Serie A Femminile rights with Rai to air one game per matchday 6. Allianz 'bullish' on future direction of Olympics following Paris 2024 7. Drake helps raise $40m to save Venezia from bankruptcy as his Nike Nocta brand becomes kit sponsor 8. Deloitte expands worldwide Olympic partnership to become tech integration partner through 2032 9. Fox set to sell out of Super Bowl ads before end of summer, reports Variety 10. IOC's biggest broadcasters enjoy bumper Games as NBC scores 82% increase on Tokyo 2020 while Warner Bros. Discovery reports record streaming numbers 11. NCAA's $2.7bn athlete settlement faces objections from some students 12. Manchester City hearing into 115 alleged Premier League rule breaches brought forward to next month, reports The Times 13. Fanatics will continue to power retail during England national team games after securing extension with the FA 14. British Olympic chiefs hope to enter a men's soccer team for LA 2028 15. WRC adds the US race to 2026 schedule   Keep your finger on the pulse with all the major stories and news announcements by checking out The Wire - our one-stop shop and super-feed of sports business news 👉 https://lnkd.in/dJKSjMv5

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The future of sports is bright! Fitch Ratings projects a stronger financial outlook for the industry in 2025, fueled by global expansion, growing interest in women’s sports, and favorable economic conditions like lower U.S. interest rates. Key drivers include robust income streams from media rights, sponsorships, naming rights, and premium seating, alongside increased demand for sports content and concert tours utilizing professional facilities. “The rise of women’s sports and global engagement are unlocking exciting new revenue opportunities,” says Fitch’s Ben Munguia. The game is changing—and the opportunities are boundless! #SportsBusiness #WomenInSports #GlobalExpansion

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⚽️ Even More Celebrity Investment in Soccer Teams While Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney weren't the first ever celebrity investors into a soccer team, their investment in Wrexham AFC has made the pair the prototypical celebrity investors in a soccer team. Wrexham has become "Hollywood's Team" and is considered a template for what many other influencers are trying to replicate--across different sports, different geographies, and different levels. Ryan and Rob are basically thought leaders when it comes to celebrities getting into the sports business and now they've bought a stake in Mexican soccer club Necaxa. Alongside other celebrity investors like Eva Longoria, Ryan and Rob have the opportunity to build another success story like Wrexham. Two interesting factors here are A) the role of content and B) the choice of geography. A large part of Wrexham's success has come from their FX series "Welcome to Wrexham," and and overall focus on creating relevant social media content. Will they employ a similarly aggressive content strategy for Club Necaxa, maybe even creating a docuseries about the club? And in the very global world of soccer, Ryan and Rob have strategically decided to pick a team in Mexico as their next focus. With the World Cup being hosted across Mexico, Canada, and the US in 2026 and Liga MX as the most watched soccer league in America, buying a team in Mexico makes a lot more sense vs. buying a soccer team in many other countries. More influencers will be investing in more sports teams and on an international scale, influencer-sports tea fit will be an important factor to ensure successful investments. https://lnkd.in/e3uS_vqR #football #soccer #sportsinvestment #sports #sport #media #entertainment #sportsbusiness #celebrity #influencer

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For those following the 🚀 rise of the #3x3Basketball format, check out an explanation of how this exciting format differentiates itself, courtesy of the Godmother of 3x3 🏀 and founder of 3XBA, Alanna McDonald. #womensbasketball #sportsbiz

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I was having breakfast with a friend this morning and he asked me one of the best questions I have ever been asked: Since you’ve been doing podcasts for the past few years, how has your perception of listening changed and what is listening to you?    I think this is one of the best questions I have ever been asked (understandably I am not asked very many questions as I am usually the one interviewing NOT the other way around)   I took him back to my first podcast with Ruben Emir Gnanalingam CEO of Westports Malaysia & Co-Owner of Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) & QPR FC   For that podcast I prepared for 100+ hrs   Then the night before I was supposed to interview him   I was sick   Maybe this was due to nervousness but nevertheless the podcast did not go ahead   Fortunately Ruben was very understanding and so we rescheduled the podcast for a week later   Again   I spent 10s of hours preparing for the podcast   I was so prepared for the interview that I knew everything about him from his favourite colour all the way to his blood type   Just kidding   But the point was I was incredibly overprepared   I did the podcast with Ruben with a list of 100+ questions   Why did you join Westports, why did you create a startup, why buy QPR   In theory these are all good questions but the problem was   If I asked Ruben a question about football and he started talking about football then transitioned to talking about how he created a basketball team   As an interviewer that is gold dust because it gives the opportunity to pivot to something that he perhaps hasn’t talked about before   However as a first time interviewer I didn’t know this   And so instead of transitioning with him I would flip to a completely different topic   This would have gone unnoticed to me   But since Personable is recorded this piece of feedback came back to me   I went from having set questions that made a forced conversation to set topics   Enabling me to be adaptive alongside my guest to have a more free flowing conversation   Have a listen to that first episode and then listen to one of the latest podcasts and see if you notice a difference   This learning in my journey through podcasting has taught me that to learn new knowledge the less I say the better   The more opportunity there is for new learnings, the more I can absorb and the more I can go about improving my life going forward   Growing up we all feel like we want to fit in   For me this was accomplished my need to fill silences and be there to adhere to what I thought the group would want to hear   But now I realise that silence can be a virtue   The less you say, the more open ended questions you ask, the more comfortable you make the other person feel and allow them to feel heard and trusted the more you will learn   So what is listening to me: Opportunity Harvey Bracken-Smith November 20th 2024

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