SSAC

Level Up: Analyzing the Influence of Brands on the Esports Ecosystem Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: Brian Millman

Panelists: Joe Marsh, Andrew Lilien, Doug Watson

This panel seeks to dive into the dynamic relationship between brands and the esports industry, exploring the current landscape and future in 2024. In the world of esports, brands and esports organizations are presented with unique opportunities and challenges in establishing meaningful connections with the community. Our panel of experts from esports teams, agencies, game developers, and brand partners will discuss the current state of brand involvement in esports, examining what it takes to form impactful strategic partnerships. Panelists will offer insights into how esports organizations and brands can successfully collaborate in the esports ecosystem, from sponsorship activations to digital marketing innovations. #LevelUp

Take Two: Sustaining Success in the New Look MLB Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: David Schoenfield

Panelists: Carlos Pena, Jonathan Erlichman, Michael Voltmer, Nick Troop

The 2023 season marked a seismic shift in Major League Baseball. The introduction of rule changes, namely the pitch timer and defensive shift limits, have fundamentally altered the way the game is played. As these changes enter their second season, how are stakeholders across the league thinking about the long-term implications of competing under the new rules? Hear from Jonathan Erlichman and Michael Voltmer, representing two of baseball’s most consistent franchises in the Rays and Dodgers respectively, and former All-Star and 14-year MLB Veteran Carlos Peña as they dive into the strategies being deployed by teams and players in pursuit of sustained success. The panelists will discuss how data & analytics, advanced technology, and other innovative resources are being used to optimize game strategy, opponent scouting, player development, and more. #TakeTwo

League Innovations: Balancing Tradition and Progress Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: Alison Overholt

Panelists: Evan Wasch, Dawn Aponte, Lisa Lazarus

In efforts to create unique competition, the NBA recently debuted its in-season tournament, while the NFL consistently updates its rules to enhance game flow, safety, and competitiveness, while also expanding its global presence by hosting games in international markets, with the first NFL game in South America taking place in 2024. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) is actively pushing for innovation to improve safety standards while the MLS is rapidly expanding, and using MLS Next Pro to test their latest innovations. Leagues continue to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs, desires and concerns of fans while maintaining the integrity of their sport and the fundamentals that fans love. This panel brings together executives from the NBA, NFL, MLS, and HISA to discuss how leagues are making the decisions that are driving their sports forward to raise the overall quality for both the fans and the participants. Through insightful analysis, this panel will explore the impacts of these changes on league operations, fan engagement, player dynamics, and the overall future trajectory of each respective league. #LeagueInnovations

Winning With AI: The Future of AI in Sports Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: Matt Rousson

Panelists: Kevin Lopes, Julie Souza, Tyrone Millard

AI has changed the way that the world interprets, handles, and reacts to data across all industries. This panel will focus on how AI and machine learning is and will change the sports industry. Current applications of AI are still relatively nascent in sports, but in a rapidly developing environment, the use cases for AI continue to broaden. This discussion will center around the different ways in which sports teams, leagues, broadcasters, and technology vendors could eventually integrate AI into areas such as player evaluation, fan engagement, league innovations, and more. Hear from panelists at the forefront and close to the action on how they believe AI is best positioned to develop in the sports industry. #WinningWithAI

The Game Changers: Entrepreneurship with Jason Robins and Rich Paul Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: Jessica Gelman

Panelists: Jason Robins, Rich Paul

From creating a new industry to redefining an old one, industry giants, Jason Robins and Rich Paul will share their origin stories, vision of leadership, and entrepreneurial approach to success. Both founders are highly influential in the sports industry and have expanded their reach beyond their original start-up goals while taking very different approaches, IPO vs partnership. Jason Robins founded DraftKings out of his passion for fantasy sports and has expanded the company into sports betting, gaming, and other consumer product offerings. Rich Paul founded KLUTCH Sports Group to represent NBA basketball clients and has built the agency into a leader in athlete empowerment and community impact. KLUTCH now has expanded into a variety of major sports and leagues with a wide array of industry-dominant offerings. This duo will give an in-depth look into their own entrepreneurship journey and lessons learned from building their empires across negotiations, business growth, and connecting with people. #GameChangers

The Future of Sports & Sports Business Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: Abe Madkour

Panelists: Jessica Gelman, Julie Uhrman, Amy Latimer

Sports is a center for innovation and change, directly reflecting in real-time the changing expectations of fans, athletes, and industry. With the world’s eye often looking to sports to lead change, both with the game and customer consumption, how do sports organizations position themselves for sustainable long-term success? This panel will explore the future of sports and innovation opportunities within on-field experiences, fan engagement, and how sports are consumed. Hear from industry leaders with unique perspectives from leagues, teams, venues, and technology who are driving changes across and within sports. The panel will delve into how organizations can use analytics, AI, and data to improve all aspects of the game. Panelists will also discuss how changes in the broader ecosystem around ownership, globalization, foreign investment, gambling, and rapid shifts in technology are altering fan preferences and reshaping the sports industry. #futureofsports

The New Age of Sports Media: Content and Monetization Sep 20, 2024

Moderator: Marie Donoghue
Panelists: Amy Reinhard, Lori Conkling, Harish Sarma, Reagan Carey

This past year has seen the realization of sports streaming. Netflix hosted its first live sporting event, the Netflix Cup, and has been the home to popular sports series, such as Formula 1: Drive to Survive and Quarterback. YouTube is now the exclusive home of NFL Sunday Ticket. TikTok has re-invented how to consume sports by enabling off-the-field conversations in platforms such as SportsTok. Both playoff and regular season games are now broadcasted on a variety of streaming platforms. Amidst these changes, vMVPD providers are seeing large increases in their subscriber counts. Additionally, consumers are watching more sports content on social media platforms, like TikTok. Panelists representing some of the world’s most innovative digital entertainment companies will discuss approaches to their sports content development strategy, cutting edge ways to monetize the content, and how data drives these decisions. This panel will take a retrospective look at what approaches have been successful so far and how these learnings can be leveraged to anticipate future trends in sports streaming. #sportstreaming

David vs. Goliath: The Underdog Mindset Sep 06, 2024

Moderator: Jackie MacMullan

Panelists: Sue Bird, Jeff Van Gundy, Nick Caserio

As fans, we watch sports for the unexpected and for the feats we did not see coming. Of course, many of the most memorable are David defeating Goliath. Upsets. Last second shots. Win streaks. What leads to the right moments where chemistry defeats legacy? Hear from Sue Bird, Jeff Van Gundy, Nick Caserio, and Daryl Morey on how players, GMs, and coaches come together when they have been both David and Goliath. What are the keys to developing this "underdog" mindset, and how can those of us who are not professional athletes apply those lessons to the challenges we face every day? #Underdog

Future of Football: Innovation on the Gridiron Sep 06, 2024

Moderator: Michele Steele

Panelists: Paul Tudor Jones, Jonathan Kraft
American Football has long held the marquee sports spot within the United States thanks to continual advancements made by leagues and in the sport at large. The NFL is in a period of growth and innovation: the NFL's fan demographics have expanded, 5 international games will be played in 2024, player safety is paramount, flag football has been added to the 2028 Olympics, NFL games accounted for 93 of the top 100 most watched TV broadcasts in 2023, and more. However, fewer of America's youth are playing the game than any time in the past decade and there is concern about the traditional college football model. In this session we'll hear from Jonathan Kraft and Paul Tudor Jones II, two business titans who are at the forefront of this new football era, about what these recent dynamics mean for the game and how they expect the game to progress over the next few years. #FutureOfFootball

The Numbers Game: Football Analytics from Combines to Championships Sep 06, 2024

Moderator: Ted Knutson

Panelists: Steve Palazzolo, Eugene Shen, Sean Clement, Heather Maclean
This panel will deep dive into the multi-faceted world of football analytics with seasoned industry experts from the Washington Commanders, Pro Football Focus, SumerSports, and StatsBomb. The panelists will discuss the current breadth of analytics use cases in football, ranging from the crucial role data plays in player evaluation and roster construction to the rapidly increasing utilization of data to inform game strategy and decision-making. The panelists will highlight the tangible impacts of data-driven methodologies in shaping the modern football landscape and explore potential analytics advancements that can further enhance the influence of data on success in the NFL. #TheNumbersGame

Partnerships: Activating Value Sep 06, 2024

Moderator: Liz Moulton

Panelists: Kirsten Corio, Julie Haddon, Dave Alpern
In an era where sports sponsorships offer an abundance of assets, from jersey patches to on-court branding, the challenge lies in ensuring that partners receive optimal value while maintaining fan engagement and data privacy. This panel, featuring perspectives from leaders across various industries and roles, including the USTA, NWSL, Los Angeles Rams, and Joe Gibbs Racing, delves into the dynamics of sponsor-brand-fan relationships. This panel will explore evolving fan expectations, successful activations, and the impact of shifting data landscapes on sponsorship strategies. While traditional marketing remains a cornerstone of sponsorships, the panel will discuss how it's transitioning to become more digital, emphasizing the fusion of traditional and digital marketing in today's sports sponsorship ecosystem. The panel offers insights into how sponsors are adapting their approaches to first-party data access, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to fans in innovative ways. #ActivatingValue

Leveraging Sports Betting to Enhance the Fan Experience Sep 06, 2024

Moderator: Jacob Feldman

Panelists: Brian Josephs, Keith Goldner, Eric Rimsky

As the U.S. sports betting market continues to mature, hear how key stakeholders within the ecosystem are collaborating to maximize fan engagement opportunities today and in the future. This panel will feature a deep dive into the deeper event data, including the growing focus on the athlete narrative as well as the usage of emerging technologies and advanced analytics. The panelists will discuss how these tools are being leveraged to fuel in-play betting, increase betting offers, and create personalized experiences that bring fans closer to the sports they love. #SportsBetting

The New Playbook: Revolutionizing Sports Gaming with Data and Technology Aug 16, 2024

Moderator: Jeff Ma

Panelists: Grant Cloud, Madeleine Want, Brett Abarbanel

In the rapidly evolving landscape of sports gaming, the intersection of data analytics and technological innovation is creating unprecedented opportunities for growth and engagement. This panel will explore the forefront of innovation in sports gaming, highlighting how data is driving the development of new products and enhancing the sports viewing experience. Key topics will include new DFS game formats, responsible gaming initiatives, the integration of Esports into traditional sports gaming platforms, and the growth of digital communities that connect sports enthusiasts and enable them to form deeper connections to the games they love. Experts from leading gaming companies, including PrizePicks and Fanatics, will offer a deep dive into the intricate behind-the-scenes efforts that fuel these cutting-edge advancements in sports gaming. They will provide a rare glimpse into the complex interplay of data analytics, technology, and creative vision that underpins the development of new gaming formats and enhancements to the sports viewing experience. Through this discussion, the panelists will uncover how data and technology are not just changing the way games are played, but also how they are watched and experienced, paving the way for a more immersive and engaging sports gaming future. #TheNewPlaybook

The Digital Gambit: Creating Compelling Chess Content for New Audiences Aug 16, 2024

Moderator: Danny Rensch

Panelists: Daryl Morey, Levy Rozman, Robert Hess

"The Digital Gambit" brings together chess legends Danny Rensch, Levy Rozman, Robert Hess, James Canty, and Daryl Morey to explore the evolution of chess in the digital era. This panel will delve into the transformation of chess content, fueled by mainstream media and online streaming, and its burgeoning appeal to a younger, tech-savvy audience. Discussions will focus on innovative formats like Chess960, the role of Twitch streamers in popularizing chess, and blending chess with other disciplines for unique content creation. The panel will also tackle the challenges of online cheating, the use of AI to enhance the chess experience, and strategies to monetize content while preserving the game’s integrity. Join us for an insightful exploration into how chess is being reimagined for a new generation, maintaining its rich heritage while embracing technological advancements. The event will also feature live demonstrations with our grandmasters interacting with the audience! #DigitalGambit

From Probability to Profit: The Evolution of Poker Strategy Aug 16, 2024

Moderator: Jeff Ma
Panelists: Nate Silver, Xuan Liu, Jennifer Shahade

With the proliferation of analytics in sports and the increasing accessibility of machine learning, defining the next optimal next move is becoming increasingly challenging. Join us for an insightful poker panel as we explore the evolution of strategy in the game, driven by probability, game theory, and statistical analysis. Delving into how these analytical tools have revolutionized poker gameplay, our esteemed panelists will discuss the ways in which traditional strategies have been redefined and the game itself transformed. Beyond the poker table, we'll examine how these strategic principles are crossing into other domains, from sports to business, reshaping decision-making paradigms across industries. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of analytics, strategy, and the future of poker. #ProbabilityToProfit

The Data Revolution: Innovations in Data & Analytics Tools Aug 16, 2024

Moderator: Erin Kelly

Panelists: Michelene Rabbitt, Dejan Mitkovski, Karlis Kezbers, Daryl Morey

After years of progress, the sports industry has increasingly embraced the usage of data & analytics to optimize and enhance business performance. But in a world where data-driven decision making is now part of the status quo, what is the next frontier for data & analytics in sports business? This panel will bring together executives from Snowflake, Ticketmaster, FanDuel, and NASCAR to delve into the innovative ways in which they deploy data & analytics tools. The panelists will discuss recent developments in data & analytics technologies, the impact of these technological advancements on current operations, and the future of data & analytics utilization in sports business as technological innovation accelerates. #DataRevolution

Impacting the Game: The Advancement of Sports Analytics with Industry Pioneers Aug 16, 2024

Moderator: Allison Loucks

Panelists: Brian Burke, Dean Oliver
ESPN Analytics will host a conversation with two leaders in the advanced metrics space, hitting on the prominence of analytics in the recently completed NFL playoffs, the impact on football and basketball in-game decision making, the media’s role in presenting analytics, and much more. #ImpactingTheGame

Power of Data: Using Data For Good Across Industries Aug 16, 2024

Moderator: Corbin Petro

Panelists: Will Blodgett, Seth Moulton, Alex Drane, Valerie Camillo
Data is used universally across public and private sectors in powerful ways. This panel brings together a variety of industry experts focused on using data for the greater good, with lessons for the sports industry. Join us as we look to the expertise of panelists across real estate, healthcare, and the public sector to better understand how data is being used to power positive outcomes and how these learnings can inform the sports industry. The collaborative insights shared by these professionals will delve into innovative approaches, ethical considerations, and emerging trends, providing a comprehensive view of the dynamic landscape where data-driven strategies intersect with social and economic progress. #PowerOfData

Beyond the Box Office: The Evolution of Ticketing Aug 02, 2024

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.

Seats at the Table: Empowering the Next Generation of Ownership and Changemakers Aug 02, 2024

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.

Sports and Social Media: Attracting New Audiences Through Content Creation Aug 02, 2024

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.

In the Limelight: Investing in the Future of Women's Sports Media Aug 02, 2024

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.

Growing the Game: How to Cultivate and Strengthen Golf Fandom Jul 19, 2024

Moderator: Claire Rogers

Panelists: Krista Olson, Travis Trembath, Fahad Zahid

Historically, golf has been perceived as a sport with a strongly loyal but relatively small fanbase. While golf’s various stakeholders continue to seek out ways to attract new fans, the sport has seen significant momentum in recent years, with participation growing at rates that haven’t been seen in decades. The introduction of cutting-edge golf media platforms and content has played a key role in generating interest in golf, offering both burgeoning and devoted fans the opportunity to engage with the sport on a deeper level. This panel brings together executives from the PGA of America, PGA TOUR, and LPGA Tour as well as leading golf brand No Laying Up to discuss the steps needed to capitalize on these trends and outline the path forward for growing the game. #GrowingTheGame

Beyond the Pitch: Transforming Soccer Through Advanced Analytics Jul 19, 2024

Moderator: Ryan O'Hanlon

Panelists: Ian Graham, Sarah Rudd, Jesse Marsch, Bill James

Three is worth more than two, walks count the same as hits, first downs are better than punts. While data analysis has transformed the way we play all of the major American sports, soccer still awaits its own kind of disruption. It’s not for a lack of trying, though. Major European clubs have begun to invest — and occasionally empower — in data-driven decision-making. But due to cultural differences, institutional inertia, and a sport that’s simply really hard to measure, advanced analytics haven’t had the same kind of transformative effect at the highest level of the sport that we’ve seen in the NBA, MLB, or NFL. Combining on-the-ground coaching expertise with high-level quantitative thinking, this panel will survey the state of soccer’s analytical revolution and attempt to determine just how far it might go. #BeyondThePitch

The Globalization of Soccer Jul 19, 2024

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

Fostering Fanatics: 1-on-1 with Michael Rubin Jul 19, 2024

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

Entering a New Reality: The Future of Live Events Jul 19, 2024

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

The Power of Sports Jul 19, 2024

Moderator: Cassidy Hubbarth

Panelists: Megan Rapinoe, Nate Silver, Jessica Gelman

Sports serve as a unifying force and catalyst for change. Sports possess the ability to uplift communities through athlete-driven philanthropy, team engagement in community development, and league initiatives including international outreach. From trailblazers like Jackie Robinson and Jesse Owens breaking down racial barriers to contemporary icons such as Megan Rapinoe and the USWNT championing gender equality, the influence of sports on society transcends mere competition. This panel will discuss what has made sports shift so meaningfully in impact over the past decade. As athletes and sports organizations continue to expand their impact, there arises a need to measure and expand this impact. Join Megan Rapinoe, Nate Silver, and Jessica Gelman in the closing panel of SSAC24 as they delve into the profound influence and evolution of the sports industry.

Evolution of Basketball Analytics: 20 Years of Nerds, Data, & Efficiency Jun 27, 2024

Moderator: Ben Alamar

Panelists: Dean Oliver, Brittni Donaldson, Mike Zarren

In the dynamic landscape of modern basketball, analytics has emerged as a cornerstone, fundamentally altering the way the game is played, analyzed, and strategized. This panel will delve into the emergence of basketball analytics from its initiation to its current essential role in today's basketball paradigm. The discussion seamlessly intertwines the historical origins with the contemporary significance of basketball analytics, showcasing its transformative journey within the sport, from its humble origins to its current status as a game-changer in the NBA and professional basketball. Navigating pivotal milestones, influential figures, and driving forces, the panel examines the profound impact analytics has on various facets of the sport, from front office strategies, coaching methodologies, player development, and beyond. This session promises to captivate enthusiasts, industry professionals, and basketball aficionados alike, offering valuable insights into the significance of analytics in shaping the past, present, and future of basketball strategy and performance. #EvolutionOfBasketball

A New Generation: The Next Era of College Athletics Jun 27, 2024

Moderator: Warren Zola

Panelists: Martin Jarmond, Val Ackerman, Brian Higgins

The world of college athletics has seen seismic shifts in recent weeks and years. The introduction of NIL compensation has altered the recruiting landscape across sports, media rights are evolving the exposure of college sports, and conference realignment is changing the college sports experience for student-athletes, universities, and their fans. This panel will delve into the impact of these changes to date and what they could mean for the future of college athletics. Hear from Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman, UCLA Athletic Director Martin Jarmond, COO of NIL consulting firm Altius Tommy Gray, and NCAA SVP of Business Performance Brian Higgins as they discuss the latest developments across college sports and where we go from here. #NewGeneration

Stats to Stanley Cups: Building Successful NHL Teams Jun 27, 2024

Moderator: Arda Ocal

Panelists: Meghan Chayka, Tyler Dellow, P.K. Subban, Jacqueline Davidson

There's a changing of the guard underway in the NHL, with legendary superstars entering the twilight of their careers and a new crop of generational talents on the way up. As this new era of the NHL gets underway, how are front office executives thinking about roster construction? What's the balance between analytics and eye test? How do you construct a roster that can handle the grind of the regular season while making sure you have a team that's built to succeed in the playoffs? From the player’s perspective, how is this next generation of NHL athletes thinking about analytics to improve their game, scout opposing teams and maximize their recovery? Come find out all this and more from 13 year NHL veteran PK Subban, NHL front office executives Brett Peterson and Tyler Delllow and Stathletes Co-Founder and CEO Meghan Chayka. #StatsToStanleyCups

Behind the Scenes in Sports Negotiating: What the Fans & Media Don't Get to See Jun 27, 2024

Moderator: Deepak Malhotra

Panelists: Daryl Morey, Monte McNair, Nico Harrison
Presidents and GMs of professional sports teams are responsible for a lot of decisions, but nothing gets more attention, discussion, debate, and criticism from fans and the media than the trades they make (or fail to make) as they try to build a title contender. The fact is, even the most ardent fan or sophisticated analyst has no visibility on what really happens in these deals – or why certain decisions were made. How do these parties actually interact and battle it out behind closed doors? What are the pressures and constraints that dealmakers face that are not visible to those on the outside? Why is there often a discrepancy between what fans want, analysts advise, and teams actually do? This panel will bring together NBA executives Nico Harrison, Dennis Lindsey, Monte McNair, and Daryl Morey to discuss the inner workings of building a championship-level team from the perspective of an executive and give you a lens on what actually happens behind the scenes. #Negotiations

Fanalytics: Fan Engagement in a Virtual and Global World Jun 27, 2024

Moderator: Alison Overholt

Panelists: Kat Frederick, Tim Clark, Carolyn Tisch
There are more ways than ever for fans and organizations to engage and interact, both digitally and in-person. By extending the game day experience and connecting more broadly with fully virtual viewing opportunities, sports organizations have an abundance of options to reach more fans in new and different ways. However, maximizing fan attention and engagement remains a challenge in a world where so many alternatives exist. This panel will delve into the ways that organizations foster authentic and long lasting fan engagement and how they differentiate in their local market while globalizing their brand. Panelists will also discuss the increasing role of technology and who owns the fan data along with the growing need for analytics to connect sports and fans. #fanalytics

Competing on Sports Ownership Jun 27, 2024

Moderator: Contessa Brewer
Panelists: Gerry Cardinale, Rich Kleiman, Steve Pagliuca

In recent years, the sports world has seen massive changes in ownership structures, portfolio approaches across leagues and geographies, control vs. minority, and the role of content in driving value. Hear from change agents Gerry Cardinale, Steve Pagliuca, and Rich Kleiman on their strategies, views, and lessons they've learned in the industry. This panel will highlight the changing nature of sports ownership and how each panelist has managed their investments. The panelists will discuss the ways in which the ownership of assets across different sports can generate competitive advantages. They will also dive into how franchises think about engaging fan bases both domestically and internationally, including the role of media networks and partnerships, as well as future trends in the global sports industry as they relate to ownership and sports content #SportsOwnership

The Impact of Moneyball: 20 Years Later Oct 06, 2023

Bill James - Former Senior Baseball Operations Advisor Boston Red Sox
Michael Lewis - Author & Journalist
Shane Battier - Former Vice President, Analytics and Basketball Development, Miami Heat; 2012 & 2013 NBA Champion, Miami Heat
Daryl Morey - President of Basketball Operations, Philadelphia 76ers
Jackie MacMullan (moderator) - Retired Senior Writer

When Moneyball was published in 2003, no one could have predicted its monumental impact across business, sports, culture, and beyond. Now, twenty years later, the book, and later the blockbuster movie, sparked a renaissance that has totally changed how organizations think about and use data. Jackie MacMullen will lead a discussion with Michael Lewis, Bill James, and Shane Battier as the group reflects on the impact and legacy of Moneyball - and analytics driven thinking - over the last two decades.

Player Power - Building Businesses by Empowering Athletes presented by Wasserman Foundation Oct 06, 2023

Michael Rubin - CEO, Fanatics
DeMaurice Smith - Executive Director - National Football League Players Association (NFLPA)
Tamika Tremaglio - Executive Director, National Basketball Players Association (NBPA)
Jessica Gelman (moderator) - CEO, Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR)

Over the past 5 years, we’ve seen a massive shift in how players are directly engaging with fans, investing into business, and using their platform to affect societal change. As players step into their collective power, the NBAPA, NFLPA, and partners like Fanatics are redefining the role and impact of player influence within and across the sports industry. Featuring DeMaurice Smith (NFLPA Executive Director), Tamika Tremaglio (NBPA, Executive Director), and Michael Rubin (CEO of Fanatics), Jessica Gelman will guide a discussion on how these industry innovators are adjusting their business models, creating new business lines, driving the future of fan interactivity and have altered the player power landscape to innovate sports.

Changing the Game: How the Sports Industry is Accelerating Progress in DEI Oct 06, 2023

Stef Strack - Founder & CEO, Voice in Sport, and Voice in Sport Foundation
Billy Bean - SVP | Diversity, Equity & Inclusion & Special Assistant to the Commissioner, Major League Baseball (MLB)
Sola Winley - EVP Office of the Commissioner and Chief DEI Officer, Major League Soccer (MLS)
Jonathan Beane - Senior Vice President, Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, NFL
Katie Burke (moderator) - Chief People Officer, HubSpot

Sports organizations are prioritizing and developing programs to broaden DEI. However, despite increased discussion, media attention, and data supporting diversity, women, people of color, non-binary, and LGBTQ leaders continue to be underrepresented in sports from entry-level to most glaringly in the executive branch. Importantly, leagues are investing heavily in equaling the playing field from employees to vendors to partners with a diversity priority. Over the past few years, major sports leagues have created new policies, hired DEI leaders, and shared their representations from business to team to front office. This panel brings together the league leaders who are driving change at the macro and team-level to increase representation. Moderated by Katie Burke, regarded as a leading voice of culture at Hubspot, learn what is working, what the data says, and how much more we need to do to accelerate representation of diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports.

Sports & Society: Redefining Sports Culture and Organizations presented by Wasserman Foundation Oct 06, 2023

Jessica Berman - Commissioner, National Women’s Soccer League
Johanna Faries - Senior Vice President/General Manager of Call of Duty, Activision Blizzard
Jackie MacMullan (moderator) - Retired Senior Writer

Sports has long been a microcosm for society at large and given the public visibility athletes, teams, and leagues expected to lead on all aspects of culture. From players to fans to ownership expectations, it is more critical than ever that organizations listen, respond, and set a path towards evolution. Led by Jackie MacMullan, listen in as Jessica Berman (NWSL Commissioner) and Johanna Faries (Senior Vice President/General Manager of Call of Duty, Activision Blizzard) discuss the process of defining a path forward as organizations invest heavily in cultures to set new precedents, ensure employee, fan, and player satisfaction and improve the organization’s outcomes. With many competing stakeholders, this panel will feature perspectives from all angles of cultural change within and around the sports industry.

Entrepreneurship for Impact: Athletes Making a Mark Oct 06, 2023

Sue Bird - WNBA Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist, Co-Founder of A Touch More and Togethxr
Brian Westbrook - Managing Director of Athlete Entrepreneur Network, underdog venture team
Lindsay Kagawa Colas - Executive Vice President, Talent + The Collective, Wasserman
Michele Steele (moderator) - Reporter, ESPN

Star athletes develop strong name recognition for their feats on the field, but their professional athletic careers represent just a fraction of their lives. After retirement (or sometimes even before), athletes embark on numerous different pathways, often using their platform and lessons learned in their playing careers to make an impact on the broader world. This panel convenes star athletes and one of the most prominent agents in sports for a discussion centered on entrepreneurship and investment as a means to drive positive change.

Performance Under Pressure Sep 23, 2023

Sue Bird - WNBA Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist, Co-Founder of A Touch More and Togethxr
Brad Stevens - President of Basketball Operations, Boston Celtics
Steve Magness - Performance Coach, Author
Michael Lewis (moderator) - Author & Journalist

Pressure in sports comes in many forms and some people "have it." Listen in as legendary clutch performer Sue Bird shares how she handles the highest-pressure moments on the court and in boardrooms, how former coach and now team architect Brad Stevens defines the value of performance under pressure for his players, and how performance coach Steve Magness studies the science of these skills to drive performance improvement. Can the "clutch ability" be measured? How do we define clutch? End of shot clock, end of game, importance of the game? How do athletes prepare to perform under pressure mentally and physically? Join this myth-busting discussion led by Michael Lewis as leaders in this area attempt to answer what truly makes the best athletes perform under pressure.

Lessons From The Edge: Understanding Humans In The Pursuit of Peak Performance Sep 23, 2023

Olav Aleksander Bu - Co-Founder, Head of Performance for Norway Triathlon, Santara Technology
Chris Cassidy - Retired NASA Astronaut & NAVY Seal, President and CEO, National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation
Roberta Groner - Professional Runner, USATF and RRCA Coach
Steve Magness (moderator) - Performance Coach, Author

What do space flight and endurance sports have in common? Both demand the highest level of physical and mental performance, requiring astronauts and athletes alike to push their limits and strive for peak performance. Achieving this goal requires a comprehensive approach that integrates training, recovery, nutrition, and perhaps most important of all mental toughness. This panel will explore what peak human performance means and whether or not it is attainable, drawing on the insights and expertise of Olav Aleksander Bu (coach of Ironman World Champions Kristian Blummenfelt and Gustav Iden), Chris Cassidy (former Navy Seal and NASA Astronaut), and Roberta Gronder (American Distance Runner). Join Author and Performance Coach, Steve Magness as he leans on his experience to sift through the complexities and understand what matters most in the pursuit for peak human performance.

Sports and Technology: Bringing Performance to the Next Level Sep 23, 2023

Tracey Kitt - Chief Technology Officer, Sony's Sports Businesses
Megan Schroeder - Senior Director, Performance Science, Los Angeles Dodgers
Michael D'Auria - Chief Commercial Officer, Second Spectrum
Christina Chase (moderator) - Co-Founder, Managing Director MIT Sports Lab

The rapid rise of the use of analytics in sports has created demand for new and unique datasets that can help provide an edge over the competition. With the commercialization of motion capture technology, player and object movements can be analyzed and recreated down to the finest detail. For sports teams and leagues, this revolutionary new age of data capture has unlocked so many possibilities in terms of player evaluation, game strategy, and coaching. Furthermore, this advanced data capture has changed the way that games are officiated and administered, providing a path to fairer outcomes. Led by MIT's Christina Chase, hear from Tracey Kitt (Sony's Sports Businesses), Megan Schroeder (LA Dodgers) and Mike D'Auria (Second Spectrum) to learn more about how these exciting technologies are being applied in the sports industry.

The Ultimate Team Sport: Building Better Football Rosters with Analytics Sep 23, 2023

Steve Palazzolo - Head of Product for the Football Division, Pro Football Focus (PFF)
Thomas Dimitroff - CEO, SumerSports
Kevin Demoff - Chief Operating Officer, Los Angeles Rams
Jacqueline Davidson - Senior Director of Football Research, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Seth Walder (moderator) - Analytics Writer, ESPN

Football teams across the NFL are using analytics to build an edge over their competition, with improved roster construction being a chief use case. This has also created numerous opportunities for companies to build solutions that provide teams with the data and analytics they need to truly create an edge. Super Bowl winning executives and leaders from SumerSports and PFF convene on this panel to discuss how teams are currently using analytics to build that edge. Potential areas of discussion include how teams are building through the draft, how to prioritize cap allocation to the correct players and positions, approaches to free agency, and the handling of all the variables that come with trading. Panelists will touch on how teams are deploying analytics today, what has and hasn’t worked well in the league thus far, and where teams will be putting more of their analytics focus in the coming years.

Soccer’s Analytics Frontier Sep 23, 2023

Omar Chaudhuri - Chief Intelligence Officer, Twenty First Group
Sarah Rudd - Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, src | ftbl
Mladen Sormaz - Director of Football Analytics, 777 Partners Football Group
John Muller (moderator) - Senior Writer, The Athletic

Soccer is both perhaps the most "unsolvable" major sport and earlier in the analytics adoption curve at the club level, making it an extremely exciting time for the global leaders pushing the boundaries of soccer analytics. The beautiful game's analytics research grows more fascinating by the year, with concepts like expected possession value models, pitch control, talent development, set piece optimization, and more gaining more traction. Meanwhile, clubs have become massive businesses, spending hundreds of millions of pounds on individual players while still unsure of how to integrate even basic analytical insights into their decision-making processes. This panel gathers the sport's brightest minds from the world's leading clubs, analytics consultancies, data providers, and researchers to truly dig into soccer's analytics frontier.

Leveling Up: How Basketball Teams Deploy Analytics to Develop Players Sep 23, 2023

Mike Zarren - VP of Basketball Operations and Team Counsel, Boston Celtics
Shane Battier - Former Vice President, Analytics and Basketball Development, Miami Heat; 2012 & 2013 NBA Champion, Miami Heat
Katherine Evans - VP of Research and Information Systems, Monumental Sports & Entertainment
Ben Cohen (moderator) - Author, Wall Street Journal

Analytics has transformed how players, coaches and front offices approach player development. The use of data analysis and advanced metrics has provided teams with valuable insights into player performance, allowing teams to tailor their training and development programs to better meet the needs of individual players. In addition, analytics has also led to a shift in how players approach their own development, as they now have access to detailed data about their own performance and can use this information to identify areas for improvement. Furthermore, the use of analytics has also impacted roster construction, as front offices and coaches now use data to make more informed decisions about everything from blockbuster trades to lineups. Join us as NBA Champion Shane Battier and front office executives Mike Zarren (Boston Celtics) and Katherine Evans (Washington Wizards) discuss the ways in which analytics has revolutionized the way that players, coaches and front offices approach player development.

Creating an NFL Player Tracking Metric presented by ESPN Sep 23, 2023

Seth Walder - Analytics Writer, ESPN
Brian Burke - Data Scientist, ESPN
Allison Loucks (moderator) - Director, Business Development & Innovation, ESPN

ESPN Analytics will take a deep dive into what the team has done to tell differentiating stories with player tracking data, using the prism of Receiver Tracking Metrics, its newest offering using NFL Next Gen Stats data.

Bet On It: A Conversation on Innovation in the Sports Betting Industry Aug 29, 2023

Amy Howe - CEO, FanDuel
Tom Reeg - CEO, Caesars
Jonathan Kraft - President, The Kraft Group
Contessa Brewer (moderator) - Correspondent, CNBC

While sports betting has exploded in popularity recently in the US, only 1 in 5 Americans placed a bet on sports in 2022. As more states legalize sports betting (including Massachusetts in August 2022) and technological innovations drive adoption and accessibility, sports betting is poised for rapid growth. At this same time, sports teams and leagues are looking for new ways to attract new fans and broaden their demographics all while further engaging existing fans. This has come to a fever pitch as sports betting companies race to partner with teams and leagues in the pursuit of continued growth. This panel will explore the evolving landscape of sports betting, the ways in which innovation is driving growth in the industry, and how the landscape is different across leagues with the change agents of the gaming industry. Led by CNBC's Contessa Brewer, hear from Jonathan Kraft (The Kraft Group), Amy Howe (FanDuel) and Tom Reeg (Caesars) as the leaders driving fan engagement and innovation.

Big Events, Big Tickets, Big Experiences: Managing the Fan Experience When Stakes are Highest Aug 29, 2023

Molly Pendleton - Head of Touring, NHL and MLS, Eventellect
Ryan Tanke - COO, Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx
Brian Lafemina - Chief Business Officer, LA28
Sezin Aksoy - Senior Vice President, Global Data Strategy & Analytics, AXS
Shira Springer (moderator) - MIT Sloan Lecturer and Journalist, MIT Sloan

While companies are pouring billions of dollars into media and streaming rights to bring events to the masses, there is nothing that can replicate a live viewing experience: the sights, smells, sounds, and energy of a stadium is so unique. The stakes are only amplified when the events and experiences are big - fan expectations skyrocket in parallel with ticket prices. This panel convenes leading executives from ticketing companies, teams, and major events to discuss how to price the biggest tickets and deliver the boldest experiences all in the name providing fans an unforgettable live experience.

Start Me Up: How New Leagues Are Innovating Sports and Capturing Fans Aug 29, 2023

Jon Patricof - CEO and Co-Founder, Athletes Unlimited
Katlyn Gao - Co-Founder and CEO, LOVB
Andrew Sinnenberg - Chief Operating Officer, Premier Lacrosse League (PLL)
Johanna Boynton - Chair and Principal Owner, Toronto Six (PHF)
Shira Springer (moderator) - MIT Sloan Lecturer and Journalist, MIT Sloan

Amid seemingly endless opportunities for entertainment, the drama and excitement of sports remains a core part of our culture and continues to capture our attention. Shifting participation trends in youth and high school sports will shape the fans of the future. For example, volleyball - with over 450,000 participants in 2022 - is poised to overtake track and field as the most popular high school girls sport in the US. Amid these changes, we have seen a wave of new leagues - outside the Big 4 sports - pushing the boundaries of traditional league operations through unique approaches to fan engagement, team structure, player empowerment, and gameplay. This panel will dive into the strategies and tactics of innovative leagues like Athletes Unlimited, League One Volleyball, Premier League Lacrosse, and Premier Hockey Federation and outline what's in store for the exciting next chapter of professional sports.

Partnerships 2.0: Data, Dollars, and Digitalization Aug 29, 2023

Paul Caine - President, Endeavor’s IMG Events and On Location
John Sheeran - Senior Commercial Director, FanDuel
Elizabeth Lindsey - President, Brands and Properties, Wasserman
Jeff Price - Chief Commercial Officer, PGA of America
Abe Madkour (moderator) - Publisher & Executive Editor, Sports Business Journal, Sports Business Daily/Global

In the last decade, traditional sponsorships have evolved into broader partnerships with deeper integrations and expectations. The current age of data and digitization has also fundamentally impacted sports partnerships in recent years: we are getting close to the "holy grail" of determining the value behind partnerships. On this panel, we combine holistic perspectives from the PGA of America, Wasserman, Endeavor, and FanDuel to provide insights into how data analytics has revolutionized sports partnerships and allowed both the brands and talent to calculate successes and failures.

Investing in Global Sports: Creating Value While Building Dynasties Aug 29, 2023

Gerry Cardinale - Founder and Managing Partner, RedBird Capital Partners
Steve Pagliuca - Senior Advisor, Bain Capital | Managing General Partner and Co-Owner, Boston Celtics
Mitch Lasky - Partner, Benchmark | Co-owner, LAFC
Saj Cherian (moderator) - Chief of Staff and Head of Fanatics Ventures, Fanatics

Global investment in sports teams has boomed in recent years across continents, sports, and levels, especially as institutional capital has become an increasing driver of team valuations and the sports landscape writ large. Sports-specific funds are popping up and raising funds of ever-increasing sizes, while more generalist institutional funds have increasingly turned to sports as a key investment pillar. With more money flowing in than ever before, valuations have ballooned despite a challenging macroeconomic environment. The last year has seen record franchise and club sales in the NFL, NBA, Premier League, and Serie A. Listen in as some of the most prominent sports investors and owners dig into the logic behind their investment theses, how they make specific investment decisions, and where investment in global sports is going.

Sharpening Your Edges: The Role of Analytics in Sports Betting and Fantasy Sports Aug 29, 2023

Dejan Mitkovski - VP of Data Analytics, FanDuel
Grant Cloud - Senior Director of Data Strategy, PrizePicks
Meghan Chayka - Co-Founder and CEO, Stathletes
André Snellings - Senior Writer, ESPN
Lisa Kerney (moderator) - FanDuel TV Talent and Events Host, FanDuel

As sports betting and fantasy sports continue to expand throughout the US, sports gaming enthusiasts, sportsbooks, and fantasy operators will push each other to become more statistically sophisticated. While not all bettors are leveraging advanced analytics in their strategies, the common consumer now has access to more data and analytical tools than ever before. Therefore, this panel will discuss how consumers are receiving and utilizing this new mass of data, as well as the successful strategies that sportsbooks and fantasy operators are seeing from statistically savvy market participants. Senior data scientists from FanDuel and PrizePicks will provide insights into the modeling that goes into setting lines, while perspectives from ESPN and Stathletes will share how the underlying data is collected and translated to fans and clients. Panelists will also discuss the analytics and real-time decision making that go into new and popular betting and gaming formats, such as live odds (FanDuel), player projections (PrizePicks), and many more.

Start Your Engines: How Data is Fueling NASCAR’s Strategy to Engage an Evolving Customer Base Aug 19, 2023

Steve Phelps - President, NASCAR
Jill Gregory - EVP and General Manager, Sonoma Raceway
Justin Marks - Founder and Owner, Trackhouse Entertainment Group
Joe Pompliano (moderator) - Host of Joe Pomp Show, Entrepreneur, and Investor

As a perennial American staple, NASCAR has steadily increased viewership over the last few years, with on average about 3 million viewers watching each race in 2022. In this new sports age, this panel will convene NASCAR leadership, team ownership, and a racetrack executive to discuss how NASCAR is innovating to drive fan satisfaction and creating an enjoyable racetrack experience for attendees. Panelists will discuss how NASCAR's strategy - including changes to the race car, new events like Chicago Street Race, a show on USA Network - has evolved to match the needs and interests of a changing fanbase. The panel will also look to the future on how NASCAR will continue to innovate and tackle key issues such as media rights deals to improve the sport.

Like and Subscribe: Co-Streaming and The Influencer Age of Esports Aug 19, 2023

Karim Fernandes - Content Creator, Counter Logic Gaming
Parth Naidu - CEO, SIDO
Nick Troop - Executive Producer, POSSIBLE
Doug Watson - Director of Esports Strategic Advisory, Riot Games
Greg Kim (moderator) - Head of CLG, Madison Square Garden Sports

There is arguably no place in sports that leverages social media, co-streaming, and cutting-edge technology better than esports. Over the past 5 years, esports storytelling has evolved, introduced new personalities, and made it possible for influencers to become bona fide superstars with tens of millions of followers and billions of views across YouTube, Twitch, and other streaming platforms. Fans are no longer content in having a single option for engaging with their favorite team or sport; they want options. Utilizing influencers, alt streams, and other technology, esports is developing strong connections with an extremely loyal fan base, scaling to new audiences, and generating unique integrations for partner brands. Join us to hear content creators, event producers, and sports leagues are using technology to change sports storytelling with new technology, virtual watch parties, and new forms of social engagement. This panel brings together perspectives from Riot Games, POSSIBLE, CLG, and SIDO to discuss the age of influences and co-streaming in esports and what it means for the development of the industry going forward.

The Chess Renaissance: Modern Challenges for an Ancient Game Aug 19, 2023

Jennifer Shahade - Chess Champion, Professional Poker Player, Author
Hikaru Nakamura - Chess Grandmaster, 5-time U.S. Champion and Popular Chess Streamer
Daryl Morey - President of Basketball Operations, Philadelphia 76ers
Fabiano Caruana - Chess Grandmaster and Founder of C-Squared Podcast
Danny Rensch (moderator) - International Chess Master, Chief Chess Officer, Chess.com

Although Chess has been played for over one-thousand years, it's popularity has attained new heights in the recent years, particularly amongst the younger generation. This is in part due to popular TV shows, like the Queen's Gambit, the ease of streaming matches, and a growing amount of engaging and digestible content tailor-made for social media. Yet, the game has also been rocked by prominent cheating scandals - aided by the very technologies that have helped chess grow more popular. This panel brings together some of the biggest names in the game including Danny Rensch, Jennifer Shahade, Fabiano Caruana, Hikaru Nakamura, and Daryl Morey to discuss the current state of chess, techniques to detect cheating, and how chess can continue to leverage technology to grow the game all while keeping competition fair, fun, and entertaining. There will be a board on stage - so who knows, we might even have a live match break out in the middle of the discussion!

Raising The Stakes: The Evolution of Poker Strategy Aug 19, 2023

Nate Silver - Statistician, Author and Founder FiveThirtyEight
Jennifer Shahade - Chess Champion, Professional Poker Player, Author
Maria Ho - Professional Poker Player, Broadcaster
Xuan Liu - Professional Poker Player
Jeff Ma (moderator) - Entrepreneur, Author, Host of "Bet the Process" Podcast

How can analytic decision making in high stakes games of poker be applied to real life decisioning? What can we learn through the analytics of human behavior and how different game strategies can be applied to real world situations? Discover how to identify, analyze and leverage key metrics present in everyday games of poker, blackjack and chess to make more informed decisions in all aspects of your life. Join 538's Nate Silver, professional poker player Jennifer Shahade and Women in Poker Hall of Fame Inductee Maria Ho for a wide ranging conversation on poker's trendiest strategy, whether the rise in analytics in poker has truly evened the playing field, and the potential implications for the future of high stakes poker.

The New Age of Golf: Players vs the Game Aug 19, 2023

Alex Baldwin - President, Korn Ferry Tour
Mark Broadie - Carson Family Professor of Business, Columbia Business School
Dan Zelezinski - Chief Commercial Officer, Twenty First Group
Suzy Whaley (moderator) - President, Golf Nation

Golf has seen a dramatic transformation in recent years with how players try to gain an advantage. With professional golfers now inundated with data about their games, how do they best cut through the noise and identify the key performance indicators that actually correlate to winning tournaments? How do different course conditions and layout impact performance? What are players focusing on physically to best prepare for peak performance? From the Tour perspective, how can organizations like the Korn Ferry, Epson, and NCAA best prepare players to compete on the PGA and LPGA Tour? Join us for a deep dive into how golfers are gaining a competitive advantage with Alex Baldwin, President of the Korn Ferry Tour, Mark Broadie, golf analytics expert and inventor of strokes gained, and Dan Zelezinski, COO of the Twenty First Group. Learn how influential figures in the golf community see these dynamics playing out in the short and long term.

Pickleball: The Next Chapter for the World’s Fastest Growing Sport Aug 19, 2023

Jessie Irvine - Professional Pickleball Player, PPA Tour & MLP's Florida Smash
Brian Levine - Interim CEO, Major League Pickleball
Connor Pardoe - CEO, Professional Pickleball Association
Dave Fleming (moderator) - Pickleball Broadcaster, Senior Pro Player, Marketer, and Content Creator, Professional Pickleball Association

Created in 1965 in Bainbridge Island, Washington, pickleball is now all the rage. It's the fastest-growing sport three years running. With athletes such as Lebron James, Tom Brady, Naomi Osaka, and Patrick Mahomes investing in the sport, pickleball is projected to attract close to 40 million players across the world by 2030. Moderated by PPA Tour broadcaster & pickleball pro, Dave Fleming, this panel brings together a top 10 player in the world (Jessie Irvine) and CEOs from two of the sport's biggest leagues MLP (Brian Levine) and PPA (Connor Pardoe) to discuss why the sport is growing, what's to expect in upcoming years, and how you can get involved.

Revamping America’s Pastime: The Effect of Rule Changes in Baseball Aug 19, 2023

Bill James - Former Senior Baseball Operations Advisor, Boston Red Sox
Morgan Sword - Executive Vice President, Baseball Operations, Major League Baseball (MLB)
Raúl Ibañez - Senior Vice President of On-Field Operations, Major League Baseball (MLB)
Kevin Negandhi (moderator) - Anchor for SportsCenter, Host for ESPN College Football on ABC, ESPN

America's Pastime has undergone significant changes over the past several years as it tries to capture younger audiences and develop them into passionate baseball fans like ones from past generations. Chief among these are rule changes meant to increase the pace, excitement, and competitiveness of the game. This panel convenes Bill James and executives from the MLB league office to discuss the rationale behind these rule changes, its effect on team composition, and the tangible impact that the panelists feel it will have on the game moving forward.

Hard Cap Constrains: Roster Construction in the Hard Cap Era of Hockey Aug 19, 2023

Kate Madigan - Assistant General Manager, New Jersey Devils
Brett Peterson - Assistant General Manager, Florida Panthers
Meghan Chayka - Co-Founder and CEO, Stathletes
Dominic Moore (moderator) - NHL Analyst on ESPN, Former NHL Player

With the NHL the only true 'hard cap' league of the 4 major sports leagues, front office executives face a unique dilemma. How does the growing salary of top players like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews influence roster construction? Is building a true dynasty even possible anymore with the 'winners tax' that Stanley Cup champions have to pay in order to keep their current roster together? How does the hard cap influence prioritization of salary cap allotment between goalies, forwards and defensemen? This panel brings together front office executives from across the NHL as well as some of the forward-most thinkers in hockey analytics to discuss the best way to build a roster that is well positioned for sustainable, long-term success.

The Future of Sports & Entrepreneurship: A Conversation with Jason Robins and Wyc Grousbeck Aug 08, 2023

Jason Robins - Co-Founder, CEO and Chairman of the Board, DraftKings
Wyc Grousbeck - Lead Owner, Boston Celtics
Jessica Gelman (moderator) - CEO, Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR)

Jason Robins and Wyc Grousbeck are two of the most prominent builders of sports businesses today who see opportunities before others. As the Co-Founder and CEO of DraftKings, Jason helped revolutionize the ever-growing US sports betting landscape with the advent of daily fantasy games and mobile wagering. As Lead Owner of the Boston Celtics and a venture capitalist, Wyc Grousbeck helped revitalize one of the NBA's most iconic brands and was an early pioneer investing around sports including fast-growing sports entities such as SeatGeek, Zwift, and Formula E. Join Jason and Wyc as they sit down with Jessica Gelman to discuss their sports career paths and the strategies they've deployed to navigate obstacles along the way.

The Future of the Fan: Innovation, Data, and ”Always On” Engagement presented by Ticketmaster Aug 08, 2023

Marie Donoghue - Vice President, Global Sports Video, Amazon
Jessica Gelman - CEO, Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR)
Renie Anderson - Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President, NFL Partnerships, NFL
Valerie Camillo - President & CEO, Spectacor Sports & Entertainment
Shelley Pisarra (moderator) - Executive Vice President of Global Insights and Strategy, Wasserman

The Year of the Fan is upon us as leagues, teams, and partners are more connected and more knowledgeable about their consumers than ever before. Sports continues to dominate our mindshare whether that be watching, reading, listening, or playing alongside. Historically, the Holy Grail of Fan Insights was long around who was attending games. With more ways to consume sports, innovation in understanding and serving the fan is rapidly accelerating. Organizations have invested in improving all aspects of the game-day experience and growing connectivity. Simultaneously, as digital marketing, cashless payments, and OTT content provides a deeper perspective about who, how, when, and why fans are engaging, innovation around a 360 degree view of the fan has become the new focus. Listen in as industry leaders who are redefining fan experiences through entertainment/content, experiences, data, and fan connectivity. With new patterns and data on consumer behavior, long-held industry myths have been busted and is driving a more personalized and "always on" fan experience.

Social Media and Sports: How Consumption and Fanhood is Changing Aug 08, 2023

Tim Clark - Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, NASCAR
Kathryn Kai-ling Frederick - Chief Marketing Officer, LA Rams
Kaitee Daley - Vice President of Social Media, ESPN
Karlis Kezbers (moderator) - Vice President of Global Client Analytics, Ticketmaster

More than 50% of fans currently use social media platforms while watching live sports, and that number is only expected to grow. The meteoric rise of short-form video across all social media platforms has shifted viewer attention spans and content preferences. Fans are opting for bite-sized clips over an entire real-time game, or behind-the-scenes clips over live content. In fact, in the next 5 years, the value of short-form video clips in sports is expected to rise faster than live media rights. Join our panelists for a discussion on the evolution of social media and its impact on sports consumption and fanhood. Learn how sports teams are currently using social media to engage their audiences, and their plans to expand beyond those who watch cable broadcasts.

Data For Good: What Sports Can Learn From Other Industries Aug 08, 2023

Corbin Petro - CEO and Co-Founder, Eleanor Health
Corey Thomas - Chair and CEO, Rapid7
Seth Moulton - U.S. Representative for Massachusetts's 6th Congressional District
Sanjeev Verma - Founder and Chairman, PreVeil
Andrea Jones-Rooy (moderator) - Social Scientist, Director of Undergraduate Studies, Visiting Associate Professor, NYU Center for Data Science

Data is used across industries in innovative ways, raising questions on its use, ownership, and appropriate guardrails. This panel brings together industry experts all focused on using data for the greater good – improved health, safety, security – to share learnings on managing unintended consequences and protect from bad actors. In fact, the sports industry, athletes, leagues, and teams are just learning how to grapple with these issues, as the rise of video footage, AI, and wearable sensors have made it feasible to analyze performance trends in unparalleled detail. Join us as we look to the expertise of panelists across healthcare, government, and cybersecurity industries to better understand what sports can learn from other industries to ensure data is used in the right way by the right people.

Mind, Body, Machine: The Role of AI/ML in the Future of Sports Aug 08, 2023

Patrick Lucey - Chief Scientist, Stats Perform
Daryl Morey - President of Basketball Operations, Philadelphia 76ers
Sherry Marcus - Director, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
S. Matthew Liao - Arthur Zitrin Professor of Bioethics and Director of the Center for Bioethics, New York University
Ethan Strauss (moderator) - Proprietor of the House of Strauss Substack

The recent launches of ChatGPT and Dall-E have put a spotlight on artificial intelligence (AI), making it arguably the most discussed topic in the news right now. While many industries have just started to get their first exposure to the possibilities of AI, it has already started to make an impact in the sports industry. Some reports estimate that the AI in Sports market will reach tens of billions of dollars in the next 10 years. From helping analyze game footage and player data in the NBA and NFL, to identifying trends and patterns that predict future performance in F1, teams and organizations are increasingly relying on AI to help gain an edge. Led by Ethan Strauss and joined by Daryl Morey (76ers), Patrick Lucey (Stats Perform), Sherry Marcus (AWS), and S. Matthew Liao (NYU), this panel will discuss the current state of this cutting edge technology and what the future of AI has in store for the sports industry.

The Play-by-Play of the Future: Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Sports Media Aug 08, 2023

Michael Markovich - Chief Commercial Officer, Sony's Sports Businesses & Managing Director, Pulselive
Russell Wolff - Executive Vice President and GM, ESPN+, ESPN
Tim Clark - Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, NASCAR
Alison Overholt (moderator) - Professor, Columbia Graduate School of Journalism & Founder, Good People LLC

This is arguably the most exciting, yet uncertain time in sports media history. Large tech companies are winning sports media rights contracts, many consumers stream games rather than watch on cable, organizations are developing their own direct to consumer networks, social media continues to be the go to medium for younger generations to consume sports, and the rise of esports continually represents a challenge to traditional sports. With representation from major players in the space, this panel will include a range of perspectives across media, technology, and league offices. Topics will include the current state of sports media, the path forward for traditional broadcasters, streaming and digital media, technological innovations to the consumption experience, and league-wide strategies on what it will take to win the fight for viewership.

The Last of Sports: Wishes for the Future of the Sports Industry Aug 08, 2023

Jessica Gelman - CEO, Kraft Analytics Group (KAGR)
Daryl Morey - President of Basketball Operations, Philadelphia 76ers
Nate Silver - Statistician, Author, and Founder of FiveThirtyEight
Bill James - Baseball Writer, Historian, and Statistician
Michele Steele (moderator) - Reporter, ESPN

Imagine you are granted unlimited wishes allowing you to change the landscape of sports as we know it. You can access any data in the world; you can change any rules; you could invent totally new sports; you can introduce any type of technology. What would you do? In the final session of our 2023 MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, we bring together the leaders in sports and business analytics to discuss the art of the possible for future changes in the sports industry.

Swim, Bike, Run, Data: The Next Frontier for Driving Human Performance Oct 31, 2022

Keira D'Amato - Professional Runner, InsideTracker Endurance Team Ian MacGregor - Co-Founder & CEO, Skratch Labs Dr. Allen Lim - Co-Founder, Skratch Labs Jonathan Levitt (moderator) - Host, For The Long Run Podcast

In the constant search for an edge, athletes, trainers and coaches are increasingly focusing on better data collection and advanced modeling to refine training plans, optimize recovery and perfect race strategy. Endurance athletes across marathons, triathlons, and cycling events push themselves to the limit each and every day to achieve victory. Over the last 20 years, innovative training, nutrition and recovery plans as well as equipment advances have allowed athletes to achieve unbelievable feats. Now, enabled by new biometric and performance tracking devices, data represents the next source for pushing the limits of human achievement. This panel will focus on how data is being leveraged to take human performance to the next level in endurance sports. By seizing the data, who knows what humans will be able to accomplish next?

Beyond Expected Goals: Analyzing and Implementing the Next Phase of Soccer Analytics Oct 31, 2022

Luke Bornn - Co-Founder and Chief Scientist, Zelus Analytics Lucy Rushton - General Manager and Head of Technical Recruitment and Analysis, D.C. United Jaeson Rosenfeld - Analytics Advisor, FIFA Raul Pelaez - Co-founder and CEO, ailite Ted Knutson (moderator) - CEO and Co-Founder, StatsBomb

It was a long journey for the soccer analytics community to bring foundational metrics like expected goals to mainstream consciousness and understanding. Soccer fans around the world now expect to see analytical tools such as expected goals on match broadcasts, video games, and online discussions. Soccer analytics has evolved beyond shot- and event-based data as the game's brightest minds seek to quantify value everywhere on the field at all times. Significantly, improved understanding of player aging curves and valuation models has radically shifted recruitment strategies and talent flows, with clubs across Europe and the Americas buying younger and younger. In this new phase, women’s soccer has seen unprecedented levels of investment in television deals, talent, and analytics departments. This panel collects soccer's key thought leaders working in a wide variety of spaces to push the beautiful game's analytics to new frontiers.

Keeping the Ball Rolling: The Evolving Fight for DE&I in Sports Presented by Wasserman Aug 19, 2022

Kat Frederick - CMO, Los Angeles Rams Broderick Hicks - VP, Brands, Wasserman Nicole Jeter West - CEO, Underdog Venture Team Allison Feaster - VP of Player Development & Organizational Growth, Boston Celtics Candace Sautman (moderator) - Senior Director of Strategy, Laundry Service

Real-world issues in sports and business have always been intertwined. In sports, these challenges are very visible, and even more so since Colin Kaepernick’s protests during the National Anthem in 2016. Schools, workplaces, and communities have been grappling with issues around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for years, and while not as publicly visible, the challenges are just as big. What is next in sports, business and culture to evolve a more equitable and accurate depiction of gender, race, and sexuality across sports and business? Progress must be made. On Wall Street, public boards must have female representation. In the NFL, the Rooney Rule hasn’t changed the numbers on Black head coaches. How do we move from the initiatives of today - hosting events, educating, and training on DE&I to truly living DEI - having truly diverse, inclusive, representative organizations and teams on and off the field? It is time to move the chains on DE&I initiatives in sports and this panel will highlight leaders who are the change.

Packing a Punch with Data: How Analytics Have Fueled the UFC Aug 19, 2022

Duncan French - Vice President of Performance, UFC Performance Institute Deni Batchvarova - Senior Vice President, Strategy, UFC Forrest Griffin - Vice President of Athlete Development, UFC Performance Institute Matt Kenny (moderator) - Vice President, Programming and Acquisitions, ESPN

Observing the raw energy of a mixed martial arts match, one might assume that analytics don't have a place in the octagon. 10 years ago that might have been the case, but the UFC has revolutionized the use of analytics in the sport through their pioneering Performance Institutes. Bringing together a global pool of athletes, these facilities have devised new methods to create data where there was none before and deliver impact during development, training, and the matches themselves. This panel brings together UFC executive, performance scientist, and athlete perspectives to dissect how far the space has come and what the next opportunities are to deploy technology and analytics for knockout results.

From NBA 75 to Basketball 100: The Future of the Game Aug 19, 2022

Sue Bird - Point Guard, Seattle Storm Mike Zarren - Assistant General Manager, Boston Celtics JJ Redick - 15 year NBA Veteran and Co-founder of ThreeFourTwo Productions Daryl Morey - President of Basketball Operations, Philadelphia 76ers Tom Haberstroh (moderator) - Analyst / Reporter, Meadowlark Media

This year marks the NBA's 75th anniversary. In the last three-quarters of a century, the game has evolved in such a way that even James Naismith might not recognize it. While there have been some massive overhauls – from the merger of the ABA and NBA in 1976 to the introduction of the three-point line in 1979 – the NBA product has changed each year, most recently with the play-in game playoff format. It is inevitable that the game will continue to change. But how? Is the 4 point line a realistic next step? Will teams have a spot for traditional centers? Will we continue to see the rise of international superstars like Luka and Giannis? Will the WNBA continue to grow at a historic pace? What will the competitive advantage of the next dynasty be? Will the mid-range shot be extinct? Join our panel of expert basketball minds as they opine on the future of the game.

Birdies & Big Data: The Golf Revolution Aug 19, 2022

Jeff Price - Chief Commercial Officer, PGA David Maher - President & Chief Executive Officer, Acushnet Company Ken Lovell - SVP of Golf Technology, PGA Tour

Suzy Whaley (moderator) - Honorary President, PGA of America

Golf has been booming at all levels in recent years, experiencing the largest net increase in participation in decades as over 500,000 new golfers hit the links in 2020. Golf looks much different than it did 17 years ago, due in large part to a data revolution. Beyond ball speeds and spin rates making Bryson Dechambeau a household name, advances in data collection and analysis are impacting all aspects – how the game is played and broadcasted, how fans are interacting with golf-related content, and how data is being used to attract new players and fans. This panel brings together leaders from the top golf associations and brands to discuss the embrace of data and the path forward from here.

The Reformation of the NCAA: The Impact of New Legislation, Re-Alignment, and NIL Aug 05, 2022

Val Ackerman - Commissioner, BIG EAST Conference Amy Privette Perko - CEO, Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics Elizabeth Lindsey - Managing Partner, Wasserman Michele Steele (moderator) - Reporter, ESPN

While 2020 saw college sports scrambling through the pandemic, 2021 brought about a flurry of changes that reshaped the landscape of college sports. Massive changes to the NIL rules have resulted in college football recruit Travis Hunter receiving $1.5M before he even enrolls at Jackson State, Texas and Oklahoma signaled they are going to make the jump to the SEC in another conference realignment move, and the new NCAA constitution enacted in January gives significantly more autonomy to divisions to develop their own policies. As a result of these changes, schools have an entirely different regime to navigate heading into the next decade. Will there be a super division? How will the concept of scholarships be altered? Which athletes will reap the rewards? Will we still see an overhaul of the college football playoffs? What will the NIL rules mean for the Olympics? This panel brings together the key leaders from different areas of the college ecosystem, including schools, conferences, agencies, and advocacy groups to discuss all of the massive recent changes, and to answer the ultimate question: What is the future of college sports?

Ticketing: When Precedent is No Longer a Predictor Aug 05, 2022

Kristin Bernert - President of Business Operations, Columbus Crew Frances Traisman - Senior Vice President Sales, Seattle Mariners Jonathan Tillman - SVP Team Marketing & Business Operations, NBA Patrick Ryan - Co-Founder, Eventellect
Shira Springer (moderator) - Journalist and Lecturer, Boston University and MIT Sloan

The world of ticketing has been front and center to the challenges and changes of live sports over the last two years. As fan preferences change and technology improves, the landscape for ticketing for all parties involved -- teams, leagues, and actual ticketing agencies -- is also rapidly evolving. With contactless and paperless ticketing becoming the norm, teams and leagues are now thinking more critically about their ticketing strategy, which has kicked open the door for deeper integration between ticketing and the fan experience before, during, and after games. This panel brings together executives across teams and leagues and ticketing strategists to discuss the lasting effects of COVID, how new technology will continue to foster innovation, and what ticketing will look like at the end of the decade.

The Evolution of Sports Business: Keeping Up with the Shifting Landscape Presented by Wasserman Aug 04, 2022

Mark Walker - Head of Sports Business Development & Innovation, ESPN Marie Donoghue - Vice President of Global Sports Video, Amazon Dave Abbott - Managing Director, US Sports Media, Sportradar Stephanie McMahon - Chief Brand Officer, WWE Shelley Pisarra (moderator) - Executive Vice President of Global Insights and Strategy, Wasserman

“The game is on!” is a refrain that has rung out around the world for over a hundred years. The way in which we experience these contests has evolved dramatically - live viewing, radio, television, streaming - and new innovations promise to continue revolutionizing the viewing experience going forward. Cutting edge analytics and real time data feeds, including live sports betting content, add texture to the action while groundbreaking augmented and virtual reality displays promise to enmesh us in the experience in ways never before possible. Even more, it is not just the viewing that has evolved but also the nature of the contests themselves as sports content is continuously reinvented. Combine all this with increased engagement driven by the advance of legalized sports betting and there is a convergence of data, technology, and interest that promises to reinvigorate the fan experience and capture the imagination of new generations. Join us as key leaders in tech, media, content, and data discuss how their worlds are colliding and what it means for the future of sports business.

Data is the New Muscle Aug 04, 2022

Dawn Aponte - Chief Administrator of Football Operations, NFL John Nisi - COO of Azure Data and Artificial Intelligence, Microsoft Dejan Mitkovski - VP, Analytics, FanDuel Yael Grushka-Cockayne (moderator) - Professor, Darden School of Business Any type of organization in the sports world -- teams, leagues, and businesses -- needs to be strong in the face of change and adversity. The past few years have taught us how harnessing the power of data is a business imperative and differentiator. With 79 zettabytes of data produced in 2021, lack of data is not an excuse. How are leagues using data to ensure player safety? How are companies using data to develop competitive advantages? This panel will bring together critical thinkers from Microsoft, FanDuel, and the NFL to discuss the power of data in decision-making in the sports world.

Entrepreneurship, Fundraising, Investing: Approaches to Success Jul 21, 2022

Meredith McPherron - CEO & Managing Partner, Drive by DraftKings Mitch Lasky - Partner, Benchmark / Co-Owner, LAFC Jeff Ma - VP, Microsoft for Startups Bruce Smith - Founder & CEO, Hydrow Corbin Petro (moderator) - Co-Founder & CEO, Eleanor Health

The data doesn’t lie – 90% of start-ups fail, including 65% that raise VC funding, and only 5% of VCs return more than 3x to their LPs. Yet the allure of entrepreneurship and investing drive innovation across industries and sectors, including sports and analytics. This panel brings together successful entrepreneurs from Microsoft and investors and venture capitalists from ARod Corp and Drive by DraftKings to discuss building companies, burgeoning investment trends, and their best advice for emerging founders.

The Alternative Asset: Sports Jul 21, 2022

Mark Abbott - President and Deputy Commissioner, Major League Soccer Jordan Solomon - Partner, Arctos Sports Partners Benjamin Hesse - COO, J.P. Morgan's Asset & Wealth Management Ben Fischer (moderator) - Staff Writer, Sports Business Journal

Returns in sports ownership have outpaced public market indices by ~4-6% per year over the last decade. And just recently, leagues have begun allowing institutions to acquire interests in sports teams. These rule changes paved the way for a banner year for sports private equity investments in 2021. Firms invested nearly $2 billion into acquiring stakes in professional teams; namely, Sixth Street Partners and Dell took a 30% stake in the San Antonio Spurs, and Arctos Sports Partners acquired 10% of the Minnesota Wild. This panel convenes titans from JP Morgan and Arctos, NBA ownership in NBA Champion Wes Edens, and the MLS President who opened the league to more diverse ownership structures. This will be a lively discussion on what makes sports teams an attractive investment opportunity, the private equity plan for ownership, how primary team ownership has evolved, and where investors will be looking for alpha in the future.

A 1-on-1 with Calvin Johnson and Bomani Jones Jul 21, 2022

Calvin Johnson, Co-Founder, Primitiv Bomani Jones (moderator) - Host and Commentator, ESPN

On the football field, Calvin Johnson took the world by storm; his nine-year career in Detroit ended with his donning a gold jacket in Canton. But since retirement, Calvin has also stood out in the business world, launching a cannabis company and partnering with Harvard to research its impact on CTE. Join Calvin as he sits down with Bomani Jones for a deep-dive into the world of cannabis and athletes' role in its proliferation; how Calvin's football career helped him succeed in the business world; and a reflection on his Hall of Fame career.

The Numbers Behind the Books: How Gambling Companies Leverage Data Jul 14, 2022

John Sheeran - Commercial Director, FanDuel Gene Lee - SVP Data Analytics, Caesars Entertainment Jeff Ma - VP, Microsoft for Startups Mike Morrison (moderator) - Vice President, Business Development, ESPN

In New York’s first 12 hours of legal online sports betting, the state recorded an estimated 5.8 million transactions. That’s a lot of demand… and data. How are books using this data to set odds, ideate around new products, and reach new fans? Given betting is inherently risky, what does “safe betting” mean and how are companies using data to promote it? Where do analytics come into play as books partner with regulators to monitor the integrity of markets? And what can gamblers learn from the way books and players use data to manage risk? Go behind the scenes with FanDuel, Caesars, and member of the infamous MIT Blackjack Team, Jeff Ma, to understand The Numbers Behind the Books.

NFTs, Ownership, and Utility: Outlining the Path Forward for Digital Assets Jul 14, 2022

Rachel Jacobson - President, Drone Racing League Brendan Lynch - EVP Enterprise & Revenue, Ticketmaster Mickey Maher - SVP of Platform and Blockchain Partnerships, Dapper Labs Sam Rubinroit - Director of Club Business Development, NFL Daryl Morey (moderator) - President of Basketball Operations, Philadelphia 76ers

NFTs have redefined asset ownership - for the first time, people can rightfully claim their stake in digital assets. Brands have created NFT sneakers for people to collect and trade while on the metaverse platforms like Decentraland and Sandbox, people can buy, sell, and rent virtual plots of land. Games such as Axie Infinity even allow users to earn money from their owned in-game assets. The promise of NFTs already upended many established industries and has set its sights on truly transforming the sports world. This panel brings together leaders from Dapper Labs, Ticketmaster, The National Football League, and the Drone Racing League to discuss the future of NFTs and the impact they will have on the sports world.

Blockchain, Technology, and Sports Jul 14, 2022

Steve Pagliuca - Co-Owner, Boston Celtics Jonathan Kraft - President, The Kraft Group Jason Robins - CEO of DraftKings Mitch Lasky - Partner, Benchmark | Co-owner, LAFC Saj Cherian (moderator) - Fanatics Chief of Staff & Head of Fanatics Ventures

Promising greater transparency, improved security, and decentralization, blockchain technology has the potential to fundamentally upend the status quo. Some analysts even predict it will be the next multi-trillion dollar opportunity. While the average sports fan may be familiar with the NBA Top Shot’s of the world, the sports industry continues to be at the cutting edge of innovative blockchain technology applications that extend far beyond NFTs. Headed into 2022, organizations are thinking critically about blockchain in their long-term strategy. How will pro sports leagues continue to embrace this new tech? What new products will consumers start seeing? This panel will bring together leaders shaping the blockchain strategy for some of the biggest players in sports, defining future use cases for the technology across ticketing, sponsorships, fan tokens, and much more.

Beyond the Book: The Inevitable Expansion of Sports Betting Presented by Caesars Sportsbook Jul 14, 2022

Amy Howe - CEO, FanDuel Renie Anderson - Chief Revenue Officer and Executive Vice President, NFL Partnerships Sharon Otterman - Chief Marketing Officer, Caesars Entertainment Chad Millman (moderator) - Chief Content Officer, The Action Network

There’s truly no denying it: sports gambling is big, and it’s here to stay. In just three years since the Supreme Court ruling to repeal the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, legal sports betting has quadrupled in the U.S. with nearly half of all U.S. states now live. In New York alone, the state took in over $1.5 billion in bets in its first 23 days. While the sports betting market booms, sportsbooks are intensely focused on taking a bigger piece of the pie. With this shift, gambling companies have been turning over every rock to capitalize on new customers and expand market share. This race has extended into the development of key partnerships, media property acquisition, forays into new technologies, and more. As this race heats up, this panel brings together industry leaders to discuss the current competition to capitalize on market growth and shape the future of the sports gambling space.

Continuing to Grow in the Esports World Jul 07, 2022

Chris Greeley - Head of Esports in North America and Oceania, Riot Games Alyson Walker - Chief Commercial Officer, OverActive Media Tricia Sugita - CEO, FlyQuest Sports Doug Watson - Head of Esports Insights, Riot Games Greg Kim (moderator) - Head of CLG, Madison Square Garden Sports

As esports rapidly gains popularity, leagues and teams are facing new and exciting challenges engaging their digitally native audiences. The opportunity is huge: 2.5 billion people play online games, generating nearly $1 billion in esports revenue. Leveraging social media, streaming platforms, special in person events, limited merchandise drops, and much more, esports organizations are redefining the approach to fandom. This panel brings together perspectives from CLG, FlyQuest Sports, Riot Games, and OverActive Media to discuss those strategies, what they mean for esports, and the lessons traditional sports can learn to drive better digital fan engagement.

OK, Zoomer: How Data Can Win Back Gen Z Jul 07, 2022

Bo Han - Founder & CEO, Buzzer Omar Raja - Commentator, Digital and Social Content, ESPN Tim Clark - SVP & Chief Digital Officer, NASCAR TJ Adeshola (moderator) - Head of U.S. Sports, Twitter

For generations sports have relied on children inheriting their fandom from their parents or from participation in youth sports. For Gen Z, however, that may not be the case. According to a recent study, 23 percent of respondents ages 25 and below said they are passionate sports fans, compared to 42 percent of millennials. Yet, not all hope is lost, as some companies have thrived in reaching this younger demo. As sports compete for Zoomers' screens, successful marketers are turning to behavioral science and analytics to reach the youngest sector of sports fans before it's too late. Learn how leaders from Twitter, Buzzer, NASCAR, and ESPN entice young fans and engage with GenZ.

Future of the Fan Jul 07, 2022

Jessica Gelman - CEO, Kraft Analytics Group Paul Caine - President, On Location Tom Garfinkel - Vice Chairman, President & CEO, Miami Dolphins Kim Pegula - President of Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres, President and CEO of Pegula Sports and Entertainment Abe Madkour (moderator) - Publisher & Executive Editor, Sports Business Journal

A sports fan is an enthusiastic devotee with an intense, and occasionally overwhelming, enthusiasm. Sports continue to dominate our mindshare, whether that be watching, reading, listening, or playing. This past year led to some of the most significant disruption of fandom from sports consumption to interactivity via NFTs and gambling to an ever-evolving game-day experience. With more ways to consume sports than ever before, what is the future of the fan? Is it at home with AR/VR, or is it an interactive and high-tech experience at venues? Is it more of a premium offering, or a simple get in the door membership at events? Is the season ticket dead, or will loyalty programs be even more critical moving forward? This panel brings together industry thought leaders who are leading change through entertainment, content, experiences, data, and fan interactivity. What fans want is changing - hear from those changing the game on their behalf.

Disrupting, Reimagining, & Crushing It!: A Conversation with Michael Rubin and Gary V Jul 07, 2022

Michael Rubin - CEO, Fanatics

Gary Vaynerchuk - CEO, VaynerMedia

Jessica Gelman (moderator) - CEO, Kraft Analytics Group

Serial entrepreneurs Michael Rubin and Gary Vaynerchuk are two of the most prolific disruptors in sports and entertainment. From an early embrace of technology and a focus on how customers want to engage with sports, Michael and Gary have rewritten the ecommerce, social media, and now NFT landscape while growing global brands and movements. Their shared drive for embracing the “new” has led both entrepreneurs into the NFT world and to each other with the creation of Candy Digital, a next-generation digital collectible company. Join Michael and Gary as they sit down with Jessica Gelman to discuss how the blueprint for succeeding in business has changed over time and how technological innovations are on the horizon will upend the sports ecosystem.

Data, Snipe, Celly: The State of Hockey Analytics Jun 30, 2022

Dominic Moore - NHL Analyst on ESPN, Former NHL Player Namita Nandakumar - Senior Quantitative Analyst, Seattle Kraken Meghan Chayka - Co-Founder/CEO of Stathletes Brant Berglund - Senior Director of Coaching & GM Applications, NHL Greg Wyshynski (moderator) - Senior NHL Writer, ESPN

It may not have been obvious to those watching NHL opening night, but there were more cameras than ever pointed towards the ice. And they weren’t from your local newspaper. Over the offseason, the NHL implemented and outfitted each area with cameras that could track player and puck movement to the millisecond. With this move, the NHL fully ignited a race to find key, meaningful insights like it never had before. With the amount of data available to teams at an all-time high, and as the number of analytical GMs continues to rise, this panel brings together team analysts, analytics experts, and league executives in order to explore the current state of hockey analytics, how puck tracking has already started to shape decisions, and what it will mean even further down the road.

Painting the Black: The State of Baseball Analytics Jun 30, 2022

Bill James - Former Senior Baseball Operations Advisor Boston Red Sox Doug Fearing - Co-founder and President, Zelus Analytics Cole Figueroa - Director of Baseball Operations, Tampa Bay Rays Nate Silver (moderator) - Statistician, Author and Founder FiveThirtyEight

It’s been 45 years since Bill James started publishing the quintessential Baseball Abstract series in 1977. In that time, the use of data has transformed the game of baseball. Yet, despite how long analytics have been a part of baseball, there are always new questions that data can help answer. How will the new, supposedly less live baseball impact lineup construction? How will it impact swing style? With the introduction of robot umps, what will be the impact for catchers who are great at pitch-framing? This panel brings together baseball analytics experts, including the legendary founder of Moneyball Bill James, to discuss the current state of the game.

In the Trenches of Football Analytics Jun 30, 2022

Sarah Mallepalle - Player Personnel Analyst, Baltimore Ravens Kevin Demoff - Chief Operating Officer, Los Angeles Rams Mitch Schwartz - Former Offensive Tackle, Kansas City Chiefs Brian Burke - Senior Analytics Specialist, ESPN

Kevin Clark (moderator) - Staff Writer, The Ringer

Although NFL executives may have been slower to embrace the analytics movement than their counterparts in MLB and NBA, 2021 marked the first year that every team in the league had a dedicated analytics staffer and was capped with the first GM hire from a true analytics background in Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. With every passing year, there are cutting-edge statistics being developed: Completion Percentage Over Expectation, Pass and Run Block Win Rate, among others. Join former All-Pro lineman Mitchell Schwartz, LA Rams COO Kevin Demoff, Ravens analyst Sarah Mallepalle and ESPN analytics expert Brian Burke to explore the different ways NFL teams are using analytics from roster-building to playcaling, with a special emphasis on what has for a long time been very tough to quantify: line play.

On a Finger Roll: Where the Basketball Analytics Movement Goes Next Jun 30, 2022

Allison Feaster - VP of Player Development & Organizational Growth, Boston Celtics

Haralabos Voulgaris - Former Director of Quantitative Research and Development, Dallas Mavericks

Katherine Evans - VP of Research and Information Systems, Monumental Sports & Entertainment

Kirk Goldsberry - NBA Analyst, ESPN

Kevin Arnovitz (moderator) - NBA Writer, ESPN.com

The NBA analytics revolution has happened: big men are shooting more three-pointers, mid-range shots have declined, and small ball lineups have seen their heyday. Now, the pace of change is slower; in fact, the number of made three-pointers and number of free-throws per game has actually declined this year. How is analytics movement evolving and why? This panel brings together high-profile figures in the basketball analytics community to discuss what further insights can be derived from the ever-increasing amounts of data available to teams.

Transgender Athletes: A Conversation Led by Malcolm Gladwell on Data and Participation Policy Jun 23, 2022

Ross Tucker - Sports Scientist

Katie Barnes - Feature Writer, ESPN

Joanna Harper - PhD, Loughborough University

Malcolm Gladwell (moderator) - Author

Data brings important insights to better ground discussions, especially the conversation of transgender athletes. Transgender athletes are increasingly competing at the highest levels, raising the need for data to define fair play. More nuanced discussions around regulation, legislation, and overall competition are becoming commonplace. Recently, the IOC released new guidelines on Olympic participation and US states have shifted their policy under the Biden Administration further resurfacing tough conversations. Access to sports is vital for key learnings: experiencing a team, the empowerment one feels in times of triumph, and the lessons we learn in times of failure. Join Malcolm Gladwell as he leads a conversation on the path forward for the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports.

Power of Athletics on Society: 50 Years of Title IX presented by Wasserman Jun 23, 2022

Miguel Cardona - U.S. Secretary of Education

Maura Healey - Massachusetts Attorney General

Laurie Hernandez - American Artistic Gymnast

Sue Bird - Point Guard, Seattle Storm

Shira Springer (moderator) - Journalist and Lecturer, Boston University & MIT Sloan

Sports inspire us to fight harder, train longer, and continuously strive to be the best. The lessons learned through sport are often the foundation for success later in life. Since Title IX passed in 1972, women have increasingly gained traction in leadership positions across the United States. As a law rooted in equal opportunity and prohibiting discrimination based on sex, Title IX has changed the landscape in sports and across industries. Yet, the fight for equality in sports is not over and battles continue over the law. Hear from government and policy leaders Miguel Cardona and Maura Healy alongside professional athletes Sue Bird and Laurie Hernandez on the impact to date, the current fight for law protection, and why the future of Title IX is more important than ever.

Alternative Investing: Teams and SPACs Sep 03, 2021

Josh Harris - Co-Founder, Apollo Global Management, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment

Billy Beane - Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations, Oakland A's

John Collins - CEO, SEAH

Jason Robins - Chief Executive Officer, DraftKings

Saj Cherian (moderator) - Partner, Kynetic

As sports values continue to accelerate, the interest and opportunities to invest in organizations around sports has intensified. From SPACs to team valuations to minority investments, the money around sports in 2021 already rivals all of 2020. As digital engagement grows, the value and means to capitalize on sports as owners, leagues, and investors identify new ways to raise funds. Sports are looking to take advantage of a high performing Wall Street despite major challenges on Main Street. Learn from the experts who are early adopters of SPACs, buying assets, creating investing arms, or going public to take advantage of this frothy market. Billy Beane, John Collins, Josh Harris, and Jason Robins will discuss their strategies and the future of sports as an alternative investment vehicle.

A Conversation with Mark Cuban and Andy Slavitt Sep 03, 2021

Mark Cuban - Owner, Dallas Mavericks

Andy Slavitt - Senior Advisor, White House COVID Response Team

Nate Silver - Editor-in-Chief, FiveThirtyEight

Of all the aspects of everyday life that data has transformed, perhaps nowhere was the impact more deeply felt than in healthcare. As friends and two leading public voices, Andy Slavitt and Mark Cuban will discuss healthcare and the role data has had, and will continue to have, in improving care and society at large. While data has revolutionized health for everyone, Andy and Mark will narrow in what data has taught us about the health of athletes, who come from diverse backgrounds, experience higher physical and mental health risks, and are exposed to inconsistent healthcare experiences.

The Data Dangle: Hockey Analytics Sep 03, 2021

Meghan Chayka - Co-Founder & CEO, Stathletes

Alexandra Mandrycky - Director of Hockey Strategy and Research, Seattle Kraken

Hilary Knight - Professional Hockey Player, US Women's National Ice Hockey Team

John Buccigross (moderator) - SportsCenter Anchor, ESPN

The amount of data available to NHL teams has exploded over the last year as player and puck tracking officially entered the rink. By some estimates, tracked players and pucks produce a total of 2,200 data points per second. Will this be data overload for a sport that has only recently embraced the use of analytics to drive on-ice value? And how do video analytics complement - or compete with - tracking data? How are expansion teams emphasizing data from day one to build a franchise? And what will it take to convince players, many of whom pushed back on the quality of pucks with tracking technology, to embrace analytics? This panel will dive into the world of hockey analytics, examining how teams are using the abundance of new information to help inform player personnel decisions, in-game coaching strategy, and scouting, amongst other things.

Sabermetrics vs. The World: Are Analytics Baseball‘s Answer? Sep 03, 2021

Bill James - Former Senior Baseball Operations Advisor, Boston Red Sox

Meg Rowley - Managing Editor, FanGraphs

Sarah Gelles - Director of Research and Development, Houston Astros

Josh Ruffin - Advanced Scouting Analyst, Minnesota Twins

Ben Lindbergh (moderator) - Staff Writer, The Ringer

Soon after the 2020 World Series, fundamentalist fans were quick to point to baseball’s overreliance on analytics as one of the reasons the Tampa Bay Rays lost. Baseball has always been on the bleeding edge of sports analytics, but where does the edge end? This panel aims to examine the fine line between when to make managerial decisions on gut feel, versus when to stick to the data. Did the 2020 World Series serve as a catalyst for changes to the game going forward, or will managers shrug off pressure from the media?

Super Glue: Investigating Basketball Culture vs. Analytics Sep 03, 2021

David Fizdale - Former Head Coach, New York Knicks

Shane Battier - Vice President Basketball Development & Analytics, Miami Heat

Zach Lowe - Senior Writer, ESPN

Adrian Wojnarowski (moderator) - Senior NBA Insider, ESPN

Analytics have revolutionized sports to identify new strategies and help evaluate players, but what about intangibles? How do we evaluate the ‘glue’ players that play a pivotal role in the locker room, but whose names are not necessarily atop the stat sheet, or the hustle that does not get marked down but leads to a steal breakaway? This panel examines how teams try to put numbers on these vital moments for teams. Hear from coaches, players, and the journalists who report out on the ‘culture codes’ of teams as they discuss the analytics behind culture and the potential to measure these ‘glue’ players.

A Conversation with Andrew Yang and Nate Silver Sep 02, 2021

Nate Silver - Editor-in-Chief, FiveThirtyEight

Andrew Yang - New York City Mayoral Candidate

New York City mayoral candidate Andrew Yang likes MATH. So does Nate Silver. In this special one-on-one conversation, hear from Yang as he reflects on life since his 2020 presidential campaign, the role of data in reaching voters, and what it was like to be a Knicks fan in the Jeremy Lin era.

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