

Bloomberg Business of Sports
Bloomberg
Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu and Damian Sassower follow the money in the world of sports, taking listeners inside decisions that power the multibillion dollar industry. From media and technology to finance and real estate, leagues and teams across the globe have matured into far more than just back-page entertainment. The show explains the money behind the final score.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 19, 2024 • 44min
Amazon and Diamond Sports Strike a Deal, Jay Williams on Documenting Athletes
Join hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu and Damian Sassower for a look at some of the latest headlines and stories in the business of sports. Bloomberg News Distressed Debt reporter Erin Hudson talks about Diamond Sports Group reaching a restructuring deal with its debt holders and Amazon. Plus, Bloomberg News global business reporter Ira Boudway on the NBA's new national TV contract and why everyone is looking to get a piece of the action. And longtime ESPN basketball analyst, radio host and now co-founder of Improbable Media, Jay Williams talks about his partnership with Giannis Antetokounmpo and the state of NCAA Basketball. CORRECTION: Initially uploaded a shortened version of Jay Williams interview. Edited to include the full conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 15, 2024 • 22min
BONUS: Metta Sandiford-Artest
On a special bonus episode of the Bloomberg Business of Sports, producers Ariel Agami and Justin Milliner speak with former NBA pro Metta Sandiford-Artest about the state of the league, and some of his business ventures. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 13, 2024 • 42min
A New Era in New England, Former Turner Sports Leader on Media Rights
Join hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu and Damian Sassower for a look at some of the latest headlines and stories in the business of sports. Bloomberg US sports business reporter Randall Williams joins to discuss the fallout of a slew of NFL coaching changes, led by New England deciding to part ways with long-time head coach Bill Belichick. Then, Bloomberg News editor Tom Maloney breaks down his recent story on David Tepper's struggles as owner of the Carolina Panthers. Plus, former Turner Sports president and now founder and co-CEO of Horizon Sports & Experiences David Levy joins to share his thoughts on the changing sports media landscape. He also previews his company's second annual pickleball event in February, featuring several tennis legends.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 5, 2024 • 34min
Joe Moglia on NIL and NCAA Unions, Million Dollar Trading Cards
Join hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu and Damian Sassower for a look at some of the latest headlines and stories in the business of sports. Bloomberg US sports business reporter Randall Williams joins Scarlet and Damian for a conversation on San Antonio Spurs rookie star Victor Wembanyama and his journey to a $1 billion salary. Michael, Scarlet and Damian also speak with Robert Edward Auctions president Brian Dwyer on sports collectibles as an alternative asset class and how the market has grown rapidly since 2019 Plus former head football coach for Coastal Carolina, Joe Moglia talks about his recent op-ed piece on NIL and NCAA and player unions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 29, 2023 • 35min
Best of Business of Sports 2023
This week we take a look at some of our favorite conversations from 2023. Hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu, and Damian Sassower thank you for your support and listenership in 2023 and wish you Happy New Year in 2024!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

5 snips
Dec 22, 2023 • 40min
A Pioneer for Athlete Entrepreneurs, A-Rod's Satellite Venture
Join hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu, and Damian Sassower as they discuss the latest headlines and stories in the business of sports. Bloomberg reporter Randall Williams interviews Ulysses 'Junior' Bridgeman, a former NBA pro who became a successful entrepreneur. They talk about Bridgeman's business journey, including owning franchises and becoming a leading bottler for Coca-Cola. They also discuss Alex Rodriguez's new big money deal with Lynk Global, a satellite communications provider. Plus, they cover the naming rights deal for the Orlando Magic's stadium with Kia.

Dec 16, 2023 • 43min
KLUTCH Sports Group Founder Rich Paul, Breaking Down Ohtani's Mega Deal
Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports Group and author of "Lucky Me," shares insights on his unique bond with LeBron James and the hurdles faced by athletes today. Vince Gennaro discusses the implications of Shohei Ohtani's record-breaking $700 million contract, touching on its financial intricacies and future player contracts. Gillian Tan highlights a potentially groundbreaking investment deal involving the PGA Tour and Saudi finance. The conversation underscores the changing dynamics in sports, athlete representation, and the importance of strategic partnerships.

Dec 8, 2023 • 49min
High Speed Sports Investing with Velocity Capital Management
David Abrams, founding partner at Velocity Capital Management, joins to discuss his firm's latest investments in sports, media, and entertainment. They also talk about the new proposal from NCAA President Charlie Baker to pay D1 student-athletes. Bloomberg News reporter Ira Boudway breaks down the NBA's Utah Jazz entering an experimental 'post-cable' phase after its regional sports network closed.

Dec 1, 2023 • 36min
Mark Cuban Selling Majority Stake in Mavs, FTX Sports Suits
Join hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu and Damian Sassower for a look at some of the latest headlines and stories in the business of sports. Bloomberg News entertainment editor Chris Palmeri details the news of Mark Cuban selling a majority stake of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks to the Adelson family. Then, Bloomberg news legal reporter Jef Feeley explains the lawsuits facing the MLB, F1 racing and Mercedes-Benz Group AG's racing team over their roles promoting FTX. Plus, former NFL linebacker Brandon Copeland discusses his role as co-founder of Athletes.org, which helps colleges athletes better understand their finances in the NIL era. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 24, 2023 • 38min
Barry Sanders Talks "Bye Bye Barry", Oakland A's Closer to Move
Join hosts Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu and Damian Sassower for a look at some of the latest headlines and stories in the business of sports.They check in with Goulston & Storrs sports law practice co-chair and Columbia adjunct law professor Marty Edel to break down the latest pressing legal issues in sports, including the sign stealing controversy embroiling the University of Michigan's football program and head coach Jim Harbaugh.Bloomberg News municipal finance team leader Danielle Moran joins to discuss MLB owners unanimous approval of the Oakland A's move to Las Vegas.Plus, Michael Barr, along with Bloomberg US sports business reporter Randall Williams have a special conversation with legendary running back and NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders about the state of the NFL, the market for running backs today and his new documentary on Prime Video, "Bye Bye Barry". See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.