Andrew Zimbalist

Andrew Zimbalist, an Economics Professor at Smith College, delves into the financial burdens facing host cities like Paris, which is spending $9 billion for the 2024 Olympics while expecting minimal revenue in return. He highlights the changing bidding process and the challenges cities encounter, including budget overruns and logistical hurdles, especially in Brisbane. Zimbalist also proposes sustainable solutions, such as a single permanent site for the Games, while questioning the long-term viability of this grand sporting tradition.

In this discussion, sports economist Andrew Zimbalist, valuations reporter Kurt Badenhausen, Lakers Nation's Trevor Lane, and accounting expert Christina Filippou delve into the staggering $10 billion sale of the Lakers. They explore how scarcity of franchises enhances valuation, the impact of lucrative broadcast deals, and private equity's role in inflating team prices. Lane highlights the rich legacy of the Buss family ownership, while Filippou contrasts the stability of US sports franchises with the risks in European leagues, providing insights into the evolving landscape of sports finance.

Andrew Zimbalist, an esteemed economics professor specializing in sports, and Jerry Zaremsky, Washington bureau chief for the Buffalo News, delve into the controversial $850 million public funding for a new Buffalo Bills stadium. They discuss whether such financial support ever benefits the community and explore the team's vital role during tough times. The conversation turns to the ethical implications of wealthy owners profiting from taxpayer dollars, reflecting on the precarious balance between sports and local government interests.