SSAC

Dejan Mitkovski, VP of Data Analytics at FanDuel, shares insights on using data in sports betting. Karlis Kezbers from Ticketmaster discusses the impact of data-driven decision making in ticketing. Michelene Rabbitt of Snowflake explains how cloud tech enhances data sharing and collaboration. Brooks Deaton from NASCAR reveals how data informs strategic planning and operations. Together, they explore innovations in fan engagement, the future of analytics in sports, and the importance of collaboration for improved business outcomes.

Joining the discussion are Brian Burke, an NFL analytics expert, and Dean Oliver, a basketball metrics pioneer. They dive into the rising prominence of sports analytics, revealing how data shapes decision-making in football and basketball. Burke shares insights on the innovative Total QBR metric, while Oliver discusses the integration of analytics in broadcasts. The conversation also explores the Buffalo Bills' playoff performance and advocates for rethinking fourth down strategies. Future innovations in sports analytics hint at an exciting evolution ahead!

Grant Cloud, Vice President of Data Strategy at PrizePicks, Madeleine Want, VP of Data at Fanatics, and Brett Abarbanel, Executive Director of the UNLV International Gaming Institute, delve into the transformative role of data in sports gaming. They discuss innovations like new daily fantasy sports formats and responsible gaming practices. The integration of esports is highlighted, along with advancements in user experience through personalized betting. They also tackle how data can promote women's sports and enhance community engagement among fans.

Moderator: Justine Brown Panelists: Thayer Lavielle, Julie Uhrman, Susie Piotrkowski, Sezin Aksoy While women’s sports have historically comprised only 4% of media coverage, recent insights from Wasserman demonstrate a notable uptick to 15% in 2023. However, despite this progress, professional women's sports still represent just 8% of all broadcasted competitions. The rapid recent growth of women's sports leagues and women's team valuations underscores the need for strategic investments to expand coverage. This discussion will delve into innovative investment models aimed at bolstering the presence of women's sports, while also exploring the potential of diverse media platforms in amplifying their visibility. Join us as we dissect these trends and strategies with women deeply involved in this change, from media, team, and agency executives.

Moderator: Shira Springer Panelists: Jackie Caldwell, Blake Stuchin, Amanda Anderson, Sanjeev Verma Like, follow, and subscribe - the analytics of social media go well beyond these fundamental statistics. This panel will delve into the dynamic relationship between sports and social media, highlighting the influential role of content creation in attracting new and diverse audiences to the world of sports. As digital platforms reshape the fan experience, our panelists bring hands-on experience and innovative strategies to the table, pushing the boundaries of content creation and leveraging analytics to maximize brand reach. Hear from content creators, media companies, and sports leagues as they unpack key topics such as the profound impact of user-generated content, the evolving connection between athletes and content creation, the role of analytics in redefining digital strategies in sports, and the captivating influence of sports storytelling in the ever-evolving landscape of the digital age.

Moderator: Hannah Storm Panelists: Sue Bird, Megan Rapinoe, Andre Iguadala This star-studded panel brings together legendary athletes turned business innovators, owners, investors, and changemakers to discuss the growing influence of players leading change in the industry. Sue Bird, Megan Rapinoe, and Andre Iguodala will share their unique leadership journeys, how they are leveraging their power to drive change and inspire the next generation, and perspectives on why it’s so important for diverse leaders to have a seat at the table. Through their own entrepreneurial and investment activities, these panelists will discuss lessons learned from their endeavors across Togethxr, Gotham FC, Deep Blue, A Touch More, MOSAIC, and more. The discussion will explore lessons learned as athletes and how they’re applying that acumen to effecting change through diverse leadership, influence, and how they use their power to enact positive changes within the sports industry. This is a can’t-miss discussion about the champions and changemakers who are shaping the future of sports, on and off-the-field, and ways that all of us can move the industry forward.

Moderator: Katie Hodel Panelists: Kate Howard, Jake Burns, Jason Green This panel will explore the “Evolution of Ticketing” and provide a comprehensive discussion of the current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the ticketing industry. Hear from ticketing vendors and team/venue executives as they dive into technological advancements, changing fan consumption patterns, and other key drivers that are changing the ticketing landscape, including the balance between premium experiences and accessibility for the average fan.

Moderator: Allison Katz Mayfield Panelists: Liz Lindsey, Paul Caine, Robert Thacker The phrase “live sporting event” has taken on a new meaning in recent years. Gone are the days when fans simply showed up to a stadium to watch a game. Fans now have a myriad of avenues for entertainment and engagement when visiting a sporting event. Hospitality and premium experiences have been redefined by significant enhancements to curated event packages, behind-the-scenes access, and white glove service. Sporting events now feature a wide array of improved seating, dining, and experiential options that are more customizable and accessible than ever before. The introduction of next-generation venues like shared reality event spaces will further alter the live viewing experience and enable fans to enjoy sporting events in new ways. Amid this changing landscape, what will fans of today and tomorrow demand from live sporting events? How can industry leaders in hospitality, event management, immersive experiences, and property marketing deliver on these expectations? Join executives from OnLocation, AEG, Cosm, and Wasserman as they discuss the latest trends and outlook for the future of live events. #LiveEvents

Moderator: Saj Cherian Panelists: Scott Krase, Brian Bilello, Matt Hulsizer The global soccer landscape has undergone seismic shifts in recent years. Multi team/sport ownership groups have permeated top soccer leagues - sports conglomerates now control five of the esteemed "Big Six" Premier League clubs as well as various other teams around the world. Simultaneously, the world's premier talent is no longer concentrated exclusively in Europe and South America, as some of the sport's biggest stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are choosing to play in burgeoning soccer markets. In the US, the MLS continues to grow in stature both domestically and abroad as the NWSL, the world's leading women's soccer league, faces increasing competition from the rise of the WSL. These developments are unfolding as we approach the 2026 World Cup, which will bring the attention of the global soccer community back to the US for the first time in over 30 years. Amid this backdrop, what steps are soccer clubs taking to capitalize on these trends both on and off the pitch? Hear from some of the world’s most prominent soccer club leaders as they discuss the strategies they are deploying in pursuit of supremacy within the global game. #GlobalizationOfSoccer

Moderator: Jessica Gelman Panelist: Michael Rubin Michael Rubin, a connector of people, has transformed the way athletes and entertainers engage with businesses, leagues, and each other. As Founder and CEO of Fanatics, he has revolutionized the sports apparel business, quickly becoming a premier partner with many top entities. With an expansive rolodex and Fanatics sitting at the center of the ecosystem, Michael has a finger on the pulse of the global sports and entertainment landscape. Join Michael as he sits down with Jessica Gelman for an engaging discussion on future disruptions, globalization of sports, and the future of Fanatics. #FosteringFanatics