Sports Business Journal

Prior to yesterday’s National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) championship game, I sat down with Angel City Football Club co-founder Kara Nortman to discuss this monumental year in women’s sports. Amongst other topics was the impact of Bob Iger & Willow Bay's historic investment in the club that valued the team at $250 million — the highest for a women’s sports team.

We're Celebrating the Best Places to Work in Sports 2024 🏆 From major league teams to behind-the-scenes companies, this year’s honorees represent the full spectrum of the sports industry. Over 9,000 employees shared their insights, highlighting trust, perks, and culture as key drivers of workplace excellence. These organizations are setting the standard for what it means to be a great workplace in sports—leading the way with innovative benefits like paid paternity leave and fostering environments where employees thrive. Read more about this year's companies: https://ow.ly/TsfO50U9qUm

Masters news in November is always a plus. We have exclusive details on what Year 2 at Map & Flag will look like in 2025 https://lnkd.in/epYDJ5jj

🎉 Introducing the SBJ Forty Under 40 Class of 2024 🎉 This incredible group represents the brightest minds and most influential leaders shaping the future of sports business. From leagues and teams to networks, agencies, and brands, these honorees are driving innovation, impact, and excellence across the industry. Congratulations to the Class of 2024 on this well-deserved recognition 🥂 #SBJ40u40 #SBJFortyUnder40 #SportsBusiness

The NWSL officially narrowed its expansion process to three prospective ownership groups aiming to bring teams to Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Denver 🚨 Commissioner Jessica Berman shared the update during her state of the league press conference in Kansas City today, noting that more details will follow in the coming weeks. The league's 16th franchise is set to debut in 2026, alongside BOS Nation FC, the recently named Boston expansion team. Read more Alex Silverman and Chris Smith: https://ow.ly/IlUA50Ue3xf

Last night, we celebrated the talent shaping the future of the sports industry at SBJ's New Voices Under 30 event 🎉👏 The evening was filled with inspiration, connection, celebration and recognition. Here's a look back at the moments that made it unforgettable. #SBJNVU30 #SBJUnder30 #FutureLeaders

NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman revealed today that the league's expansion process is down to three markets: Cincinnati, Cleveland and Denver. Cincy just got a big boost last night with the addition of Caitlin Clark as an investor. My colleague Alex Silverman and I have been tracking the process for months, and we've finally identified the previously unknown lead investors behind Cleveland (Rockefeller Foundation EVP of Programs Elizabeth "Liz" Yee) and Denver (IMA Financial Group CEO Rob Cohen). More details on those two and the rest of the NWSL's expansion process here:

Structural steel for college football’s most expensive stadium began going vertical this week in Evanston, Illinois 🏟️ When it opens in 2027, Northwestern University’s $850 million Ryan Field is expected to redefine the modern fan experience in a sport traditionally rooted in metal bleachers and hot dogs. The new Ryan Field will feature open, programmable park spaces for game day and beyond, and will offer a variety of seating products—including chairbacks and a canopy covering for every fan—set within a steeper seating bowl to enhance the intimate, high-energy atmosphere. Read more from Bret McCormick: https://ow.ly/oU9t50UcQYy

Masters news in November is always a plus. We have exclusive details on what Year 2 at Map & Flag will look like in 2025 https://lnkd.in/epYDJ5jj

The Future of Sports Media is Bright 🎥 At #SBJMI, our panelist & attendees shared their insights on the evolving landscape of sports media: ✨ Authenticity matters 📈 College football’s value is on the rise 💡 Transparency and fan resonance are vital 📺 Media rights consolidation is reshaping live sports 🤝 Connecting with subcultures will redefine fan experiences Let’s keep the conversation going as we shape the future of sports media. #SportsMedia #Innovation #SBJ