CNBC Sport

UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma joins Alex Sherman to discuss the state of the WNBA, his demanding coaching philosophy, the UConn dynasty, NIL and recruiting, and legendary rivalries with Pat Summitt and Dawn Staley. Auriemma also reflects on sustained success, leadership, accountability and what could eventually make him retire. Episode Notes Geno Auriemma, the longtime UConn women’s basketball coach and 12-time national champion, sits down with Alex Sherman for a wide-ranging conversation about winning, leadership and the evolution of women’s basketball. Auriemma reflects on the coaches who shaped his philosophy, including Hubie Brown, Dean Smith, Pat Summitt, Kay Yow, Leon Barmore and Cathy Rush. He also explains how his early coaching experiences in Philadelphia and at the University of Virginia helped prepare him to build UConn into a national powerhouse. The conversation explores the current attention surrounding the WNBA and Auriemma’s belief that discussion of women’s basketball should remain centered on the game, its players and the quality of competition. He also shares his perspective on leadership, accountability and the challenge of communicating strong standards in different environments. Auriemma addresses the demanding coaching style featured in Apple’s documentary about the UConn dynasty, explaining why he continually pushes players toward what he believes is their full potential. He discusses how that philosophy translates beyond basketball, why high expectations matter, and why he has never been comfortable becoming satisfied after winning. The episode also covers his rivalry and relationship with legendary Tennessee coach Pat Summitt, the rise of Dawn Staley and South Carolina, UConn’s championship drought before its 2025 title, and the role that health and timing can play in winning an NCAA championship. Auriemma also weighs in on NIL and college basketball recruiting. He explains why UConn continues to prioritize players who want the challenge of the program rather than recruits whose college choice is driven primarily by money. Finally, he discusses retirement and says he has not yet reached the point of deciding when his coaching career will end.   Topics discussed: The current state and visibility of the WNBA Keeping the focus on basketball amid wider cultural debates Geno Auriemma’s coaching philosophy and leadership style Building accountability and maximizing player potential How coaching the U.S. Olympic team changed his approach UConn’s recruiting philosophy in the NIL era Transfer portal challenges and player development The UConn women’s basketball dynasty Pat Summitt and the UConn–Tennessee rivalry Dawn Staley, South Carolina and modern women’s college basketball What UConn needed to return to championship form Geno Auriemma’s thoughts on retirement   Timestamps: 01:16 The state of women’s basketball and attention surrounding the WNBA 03:35 What a WNBA commissioner can and cannot control 05:04 Auriemma discusses the transgender-athlete debate in women’s basketball 06:50 How Auriemma began coaching women’s basketball 08:38 Lessons from his years at the University of Virginia 10:03 The demanding coaching style featured in the UConn documentary 13:45 NIL, the transfer portal and maintaining high standards 14:21 What Auriemma looks for in recruits 15:31 Pat Summitt, rivalry and being a man coaching women’s basketball 17:37 What Pat Summitt meant to Auriemma and UConn 19:03 How the rivalry changed after Summitt stopped coaching 20:19 Why UConn went years without another national championship 22:04 Dawn Staley, South Carolina and a new championship rivalry 24:56 Applying Auriemma’s coaching philosophy to leadership and the workplace 27:24 Winning, recruiting and how Auriemma thinks about retirement 28:13 UConn’s recruiting philosophy in the NIL era 30:14 Whether Auriemma is seriously considering retirement   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pro Padel League CEO Michael Dorfman explains why padel is rapidly gaining traction in the U.S. and how the league is turning the fast-growing racket sport into a professional sports business. He discusses franchise valuations, athlete compensation, media strategy, live events, demographics, investment interest, and the sport’s potential alongside tennis and pickleball. Episode Notes Padel is one of the fastest-growing racket sports in the world, and the Pro Padel League is betting that its combination of accessibility, competition, social connection, and spectator appeal can make it a major professional sport in the United States. In this episode, Alex Sherman speaks with Pro Padel League CEO Michael Dorfman about how padel works, why participation is accelerating, and how the league is building a professional sports ecosystem around the game. Dorfman describes padel as a hybrid of tennis and squash that is played exclusively in doubles, with glass and metal walls keeping the ball in play. He says the sport has more than 35 million players globally and that U.S. participation has grown dramatically since the league launched in 2023. The conversation explores the business model behind the Pro Padel League, including its 10 city-based franchises, men’s and women’s teams, tournament structure, prize money, player compensation, and developmental ambitions. Dorfman also discusses the league’s capital raises and the sharp rise in franchise valuations, with early teams selling for $200,000 and more recent valuation marks reaching into the double-digit millions. Media and audience growth are another major focus. Dorfman explains why the league partnered with CNBC and Versant for live national broadcasts and why exposure, rather than near-term media-rights revenue, is currently the priority. He also discusses padel’s affluent, largely millennial audience and the sport’s growing popularity in markets including Miami, Los Angeles, New York, Austin, Chicago, and Atlanta. Topics discussed: 01:53 How padel is played and how it combines elements of tennis and squash 03:06 Why padel is attracting new recreational players 03:52 Global participation and rapid U.S. growth 05:29 How the Pro Padel League’s franchise and tournament structure works 06:08 Player compensation, prize money, and professional salaries 09:08 Why Pro Padel League franchise valuations have risen 10:08 The league’s CNBC and Versant media partnership 12:01 Why audience growth currently matters more than media-rights revenue 13:17 Miami’s role as a major U.S. padel market 13:53 The demographics of padel players 14:49 How padel fits alongside pickleball, tennis, squash, and other racket sports 15:41 PPL Two and the development of North American talent 16:17 Michael Dorfman’s path from insurance and technology to professional sports 18:44 Why investors are increasingly interested in live sports 19:54 The emerging padel equipment, footwear, and apparel market 21:01 The Pro Padel League’s Los Angeles event and CNBC broadcast Dorfman also explains his broader investment thesis around live sports: as more of everyday life becomes automated, he believes demand will increase for distinctly human, in-person experiences. For the Pro Padel League, that means building participation, community, live events, broadcast exposure, and professional opportunities before maximizing media monetization. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode explores two ambitious plans to reshape professional sports. First, Shaquille O’Neal joins CNBC’s Alex Sherman to discuss Dunkman, a competitive league created to showcase elite independent dunkers from around the world. Shaq explains why basketball’s most spectacular play deserves its own professional platform—and why today’s best dunkers are not necessarily NBA stars. Dunkman brings international competitors together in a structured league with professional judging and an initial $500,000 prize. Shaq says that figure could rise to $1 million as the competition grows. He also explains how online video and social media have helped independent athletes build audiences, develop increasingly difficult dunks and create opportunities outside traditional professional basketball. The league evaluates performances across seven categories: difficulty, execution, originality, power, vertical leap, completion and crowd reaction. Shaq also shares memories of watching Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins, explains why he never entered the NBA Slam Dunk Contest and offers a blunt assessment of why the event has declined. For Shaq, elite athletes have a responsibility to reward fans by competing and putting on a memorable show. In the second conversation, Alex speaks with Larry Berg following the announcement that Berg will become the next commissioner of Major League Soccer. Berg discusses his lifelong connection to soccer, his experience as a minority owner of LAFC and his desire to help grow the sport across the United States and Canada. Berg describes MLS as being at a “fork in the road” following the World Cup. He argues that the league already has world-class infrastructure but must now improve the quality of play, strengthen youth development, refine its roster and spending rules, and capitalize on increased interest in North American soccer. He introduces the idea of an “MLS 3.0” grand bargain in which owners consider multiple interconnected reforms rather than debating one issue at a time. Berg also explains why European-style promotion and relegation could discourage investment in American stadiums, training facilities and player rosters. Instead, he suggests that MLS can create competitive jeopardy through knockout matches, playoff changes and performance-based spending opportunities.   Topics discussed: Why Shaq created a global professional dunking league Dunkman’s $500,000 prize and potential future payouts How professional dunkers are evaluated across seven categories Why top NBA players often avoid the Slam Dunk Contest Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins’ influence on Shaq Social media’s impact on athletes and sports entertainment Larry Berg’s path from Apollo and LAFC to MLS commissioner How MLS can convert World Cup interest into long-term growth Berg’s proposed MLS 3.0 strategy Why promotion and relegation may not fit the MLS business model Salary rules, transfers and roster-building flexibility MLS academies, pay-to-play concerns and youth development The importance of supporter culture and live match experiences Leagues Cup as a bridge between MLS, Liga MX and World Cup-style competition   Approximate timestamps: 01:30 Why Shaq believes dunking deserves a professional league 03:00 Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins and Shaq’s early inspiration 04:30 Social media, YouTube and modern athlete visibility 06:00 Dunkman’s international competitors and prize money 07:45 The seven Dunkman judging categories 10:15 Shaq’s long-term vision for competitive dunking 11:45 Why the NBA Slam Dunk Contest has declined 13:35 Larry Berg’s path to becoming MLS commissioner 16:35 How MLS can benefit from World Cup momentum 19:20 Why promotion and relegation may not work in MLS 21:25 Berg’s MLS 3.0 plan and proposed grand bargain 24:15 Turning new soccer viewers into MLS supporters 26:55 Youth soccer, academies and pay-to-play concerns 30:10 MLS relationships with FIFA and national soccer organizations Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Legendary broadcaster Andrés Cantor joins Alex Sherman to assess the legacy of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and its potential to accelerate soccer’s growth in the United States. Cantor also discusses the U.S. men’s national team, Lionel Messi, Argentina’s dramatic run, future World Cup media rights, and his plans to continue calling major matches. Episode Notes Telemundo lead FIFA World Cup play-by-play broadcaster Andrés Cantor joins Alex Sherman to reflect on the 2026 tournament and what it could mean for the future of soccer in the United States. Cantor explains why the expanded 48-team World Cup exceeded his expectations, highlighting the competitiveness of first-time participants and the relative lack of one-sided matches. He also compares the logistical challenges of traveling across the United States, Mexico, and Canada with the compact experience of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The conversation explores whether the tournament represents a true turning point for American soccer. Cantor considers how new and casual fans may begin following MLS, the Premier League, La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and international stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Harry Kane, and Alexis Mac Allister. Cantor also shares his perspective on the U.S. men’s national team’s performance, including the emotional effect of FIFA’s decision to overturn a red card before the team’s match against Belgium. He discusses his enduring enthusiasm for broadcasting, the emotional connection he feels when calling Argentina and the United States, and why retirement is not currently part of his plans. The episode also examines the next cycle of FIFA World Cup media rights. Cantor addresses the possibility of calling future tournaments in either Spanish or English, whether at Telemundo, NBC Sports, or another broadcaster. Later, Cantor revisits Argentina’s dramatic victory over England, Lionel Messi’s possible final World Cup, and FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s open letter responding to criticism of the tournament. The interview concludes with Cantor delivering his signature goal call for Sherman.   Topics discussed: The legacy of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Soccer’s growth and popularity in the United States The impact of the expanded 48-team format MLS, Premier League, La Liga, and Champions League viewership The U.S. men’s national team and the Belgium match FIFA officiating decisions and tournament controversies Andrés Cantor’s broadcasting career and future plans FIFA World Cup media rights for 2030 and 2034 Argentina’s rivalry with England Lionel Messi’s international future Gianni Infantino’s response to World Cup criticism   Timestamps: 01:34 The expanded 48-team World Cup format 02:29 Comparing the 2026 World Cup with previous tournaments 03:43 Why the World Cup could transform American soccer 05:21 Do Americans love soccer or only the World Cup? 07:03 Which soccer leagues could benefit most? 08:05 FIFA’s overturned red-card decision 09:34 Cantor’s passion for calling major matches 10:45 Retirement plans and English-language broadcasting 11:24 FIFA World Cup media rights for 2030 and 2034 12:48 Argentina’s dramatic match against England 14:31 Lionel Messi’s possible final World Cup 15:42 Gianni Infantino’s open letter 19:21 Andrés Cantor delivers his signature goal call Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro explains how the network plans to grow amid cord-cutting, rising sports-rights costs and the shift to direct-to-consumer streaming. He also discusses ESPN’s interest in future World Cup rights, local NBA broadcasts, its expanding NFL relationship and the role of ESPN within Disney’s broader streaming strategy. ESPN is navigating one of the most consequential transitions in sports media: maintaining the value of traditional pay television while building a direct-to-consumer streaming business that reaches fans wherever they choose to watch. In this episode of CNBC Sport, Alex Sherman speaks with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro about the network’s strategy for growing audiences and operating income as cord-cutting continues, advertising remains under pressure and the cost of premium sports rights rises. Pitaro explains why ESPN is pursuing parallel distribution paths rather than abandoning the cable bundle. Traditional pay-TV subscribers can access ESPN’s direct-to-consumer features through the ESPN app, while viewers without cable can subscribe through ESPN’s standalone service or streaming bundles involving Disney+, Hulu, NFL+ Premium and Fox One. The conversation also explores ESPN’s ambition to remain the “front door” for sports fans by reducing friction and bringing more live sports content into a single app. Pitaro discusses the integration of CW Sports and NFL Network programming, as well as ESPN’s broader partnership with the NFL following its acquisition of NFL Network, NFL RedZone linear rights and the RedZone brand. Other topics include ESPN’s disciplined approach to sports-rights spending, its interest in bidding for the 2030 and 2034 FIFA World Cups, and its desire to help solve the local sports-media challenges created by the decline of regional sports networks. Pitaro outlines how ESPN could use its reach and technology to distribute local NBA and other in-market games, potentially through non-exclusive agreements. The episode also covers Major League Baseball’s labor outlook, changes improving the pace and presentation of baseball, the growth and current tensions surrounding the WNBA, and ESPN’s strategic importance within Disney under CEO Josh D’Amaro. Topics discussed: ESPN’s direct-to-consumer and pay-TV strategy Cord-cutting, advertising pressure and operating-income growth Pricing and bundling for ESPN, Disney+ and Hulu ESPN’s partnership with the NFL and integration of NFL Network The value and rising cost of premium sports rights Potential bids for the 2030 and 2034 FIFA World Cups Local NBA media rights and regional sports network alternatives MLB streaming rights and possible labor disruptions WNBA growth, media coverage and Caitlin Clark ESPN’s role in Disney’s broader streaming strategy Timestamps: 01:45 ESPN’s ratings growth and parallel distribution strategy 04:10 Measuring direct-to-consumer growth and total ESPN households 05:14 ESPN pricing and the Disney+, Hulu and ESPN bundle 06:09 Future media partnerships and streaming bundles 07:50 CW Sports and NFL Network integration 08:17 ESPN’s relationship with the NFL 09:43 Balancing NFL costs with the broader sports-rights portfolio 10:58 ESPN’s interest in future FIFA World Cup rights 12:37 Local NBA broadcasts and regional sports network alternatives 15:03 MLB rights, labor uncertainty and contingency planning 16:49 WNBA growth, tension and ESPN’s coverage responsibilities 18:21 ESPN’s role under Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro 19:46 ESPN’s financial performance and transparency Brands, leagues and services mentioned include ESPN, CNBC Sport, Disney+, Hulu, NFL Network, NFL RedZone, NFL+ Premium, Fox One, CW Sports, YouTube TV, DirecTV, Comcast, Charter, the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, NHL and FIFA. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bill Foley joins Alex Sherman to explain why his ownership group is positioned to bring an NBA expansion team to Las Vegas, followed by an interview with Rick Horrow on the excitement and business impact of the World Cup. Bill Foley, owner of the Vegas Golden Knights, joins Alex Sherman for a detailed conversation about his bid to own a potential Las Vegas NBA expansion franchise. Foley lays out why he believes Las Vegas is ready for an NBA team, how the Golden Knights’ success has prepared his organization, and what kind of ownership culture he would bring to professional basketball. The episode also features an interview with Rick Horrow, who discusses the excitement around the World Cup and its impact on the global sports business landscape. Together, the conversations explore how major sports franchises, international soccer, media rights, fan engagement, and live events continue to shape the future of sports ownership and investment.   Topics discussed:   Why Bill Foley believes Las Vegas is ready for an NBA expansion team How the Golden Knights’ “Vegas Born” identity shaped Foley’s ownership approach The potential NBA expansion fee and long-term franchise valuation T-Mobile Arena as the likely initial home for a Las Vegas NBA team Building a world-class practice facility for NBA and NHL operations How Foley’s “team first” philosophy could translate from hockey to basketball Sports betting concerns and professional sports in Las Vegas Foley’s international soccer portfolio, including AFC Bournemouth and Auckland FC The excitement surrounding the World Cup Rick Horrow’s perspective on the business of global sports events Sponsorship, ticketing, media rights, and synergies across sports ownership groups Local broadcast strategy and opportunities to bundle sports media assets Possible naming themes for a Las Vegas NBA franchise Whether Las Vegas can support more professional sports teams   Timestamps: 01:30 Bill Foley’s pitch for owning a Las Vegas NBA franchise 03:18 Why Foley has been preparing for NBA expansion for years 04:20 Lessons from owning the Vegas Golden Knights 05:11 How expansion fees factor into the NBA ownership decision 06:08 Why Foley believes his group can compete financially 07:03 Long-term NBA franchise value and sports scarcity 08:10 Sports betting concerns in Las Vegas 08:50 Foley’s international soccer investments and World Cup impact 10:09 Synergies across Foley’s sports ownership portfolio 11:17 What kind of owner Foley says he would be 12:03 NBA expansion timeline and presentation process 12:58 Local media strategy for a Las Vegas NBA team 13:43 Potential naming ideas for the franchise 14:35 Why Foley is not worried about Las Vegas sports oversaturation 15:41 Advice from current NBA owners 16:16 Closing thoughts on the possible Las Vegas NBA franchise Mentioned in this episode: Bill Foley Alex Sherman Rick Horrow Vegas Golden Knights Las Vegas NBA expansion NBA Board of Governors Adam Silver T-Mobile Arena AFC Bournemouth Auckland FC Silver Knights Nighthawks CNBC Scripps Sports World Cup Otter.ai Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen joins Alex Sherman to discuss Super Bowl expectations, fatherhood, sleep, brand partnerships, New Balance, investing, and life after football. Allen shares how he manages pressure, thinks about his personal brand, and prepares for the next chapter of his NFL career.   Episode Notes Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen joins Alex Sherman for a wide-ranging conversation on football, business, sleep, fatherhood, and the mindset required to lead one of the NFL’s most passionate fan bases. Allen opens up about becoming a new father to his daughter Harper and how parenthood has changed his perspective on rest, recovery, and interrupted sleep. He discusses his partnership with Natrol and explains why sleep has become an even more important part of his routine as he balances family life, training, and the demands of an NFL season. The conversation also dives into the pressure surrounding the Buffalo Bills and the pursuit of a Super Bowl. Allen explains why he does not focus on outside expectations, how he handles internal pressure, and why bringing a Lombardi Trophy to Western New York remains the team’s ultimate goal. Sherman and Allen also cover the business side of being a franchise quarterback, including Allen’s approach to brand partnerships, authenticity, and long-term alignment with companies he genuinely believes in. Allen discusses his move from Nike to New Balance, what impressed him about the brand’s direction, and how he thinks about future opportunities in football, broadcasting, investing, and life after the NFL.   Topics discussed: Josh Allen’s transition into fatherhood Sleep, recovery, and his partnership with Natrol Managing Super Bowl expectations in Buffalo Internal pressure versus outside pressure The Bills’ roster-building process and front office communication Buffalo’s new stadium and home-field advantage Personal branding and authentic sponsorships Moving from Nike to New Balance Playing style, longevity, and taking hits as a quarterback Investing, private equity, and post-football planning Broadcasting as a possible future path Golf, training camp, and team bonding   Timestamps: 01:37 Managing pressure from Bills fans and Super Bowl expectations 03:17 Allen’s mindset and whether he works with a sports psychologist 03:41 How involved Allen is in Bills personnel decisions 05:02 First impressions of Buffalo’s new stadium 06:04 How Josh Allen thinks about his personal brand 06:22 Why Allen partnered with Natrol 07:20 Moving from Nike to New Balance 08:13 Playing aggressively, recovery, and sleep products 09:26 Thinking about life after football 10:15 Whether broadcasting could be part of Allen’s future 10:51 Investing, private equity, and values-based opportunities 11:44 Golf, fatherhood, and offseason routines 12:09 Training camp, family, and team chemistry   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

PLL co-founder and President Paul Rabil joins Alex Sherman to discuss the Premier Lacrosse League’s $100 million funding round, its path toward team ownership, and how the 2028 Olympics could accelerate lacrosse’s growth. The conversation covers media rights, player salaries, AI, youth development, women’s lacrosse, and what it takes to build a mainstream pro sports league. Episode Notes Premier Lacrosse League founder Paul Rabil sits down with Alex Sherman to break down the business strategy behind the PLL’s latest funding round and the league’s long-term plan to turn lacrosse into a larger professional sports property. Rabil explains why investors are increasingly interested in sports leagues, how the PLL’s single-entity C-corp model differs from traditional leagues, and why lacrosse’s return to the Olympics in 2028 could create a major growth window for the sport. The conversation explores how the PLL is thinking about team sales, local ownership, sponsorship, media rights, player compensation, and the challenge of converting casual sports fans into lacrosse fans. Rabil also discusses how the league uses social media, storytelling, youth development, women’s lacrosse, and AI to scale more efficiently while building a stronger foundation for the future.   Topics discussed: Why sports leagues are attracting institutional investors The PLL’s $100 million funding round and investor pitch How the PLL’s single-entity model supports future team sales Potential exit strategies for league investors The future of PLL expansion, local ownership, and home markets Player salaries, marketing opportunities, and the path toward full-time pro lacrosse How sponsorship, media rights, tickets, merchandise, and youth participation drive revenue The impact of NIL on lacrosse and emerging sports What it takes to create crossover stars in lacrosse Lessons from Caitlin Clark, Tiger Woods, Conor McGregor, Michael Jordan, Tony Hawk, and Charlotte North Why film, television, and documentary storytelling matter for emerging sports How PLL Play and PLL Assist connect youth lacrosse to the professional game Why the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics could be a major moment for lacrosse How the PLL is making broadcasts more accessible to new fans The NHL as a growth comparison for professional lacrosse How the PLL is using AI across creative, technical, and analytics functions The cultural perception of lacrosse and how access, women’s sports, and youth growth are changing the game   Timestamps: 01:00 Paul Rabil explains the investor pitch behind the PLL’s new funding round 02:46 How the PLL’s single-entity C-corp model differs from traditional sports leagues 03:35 Why lacrosse’s return to the Olympics creates a strategic growth window 04:40 How investors could see returns through team sales and league growth 07:55 Rabil describes the current state of the PLL and future expansion goals 09:22 Player salaries, wage growth, and making professional lacrosse more sustainable 12:03 Why sponsorship is the PLL’s biggest revenue category 13:30 How NIL benefits lacrosse and other emerging sports 14:14 The challenge of creating the next crossover lacrosse star 17:21 Why sports documentaries and scripted storytelling can grow participation 18:31 How PLL Play and PLL Assist connect youth participation with the pro league 19:16 The importance of the 2028 Olympics for lacrosse and the PLL 20:44 How the PLL is trying to reach sports fans who are new to lacrosse 24:06 How the league is using AI to support content, analytics, and operations 25:07 Future innovations in broadcast production and fan engagement 27:00 Rabil addresses lacrosse’s cultural image and the importance of access 29:46 The growth of women’s lacrosse and the opportunity for the Women’s Lacrosse League Mentions and resources: Premier Lacrosse League: https://premierlacrosseleague.com Women’s Lacrosse League: https://premierlacrosseleague.com/wll PLL Play: https://premierlacrosseleague.com/play PLL Assist: https://premierlacrosseleague.com/assist ESPN: https://www.espn.com LA28 Olympic Games: https://la28.org Olympics: https://olympics.com MSG Sports: https://www.msgsports.com Arctos: https://www.arctospartners.com Ares Management: https://www.aresmgmt.com Apollo Global Management: https://www.apollo.com TKO Group: https://www.tko.com NWSL: https://www.nwslsoccer.com WNBA: https://www.wnba.com NHL: https://www.nhl.com Major League Soccer: https://www.mlssoccer.com League One Volleyball: https://www.lovb.com Netflix: https://www.netflix.com Chess.com: https://www.chess.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com Ticketmaster: https://www.ticketmaster.com Nike: https://www.nike.com IBM: https://www.ibm.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rafael Nadal reflects on his Netflix documentary, early training in Mallorca, rivalry with Roger Federer, retirement, injuries and what comes next after one of tennis’s greatest careers. He also shares why Novak Djokovic’s numbers define the GOAT debate and what Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner would need to achieve to enter that conversation.  Then, Alex speaks with CNBC’s Michael Ozanian about his upcoming Empires Valuations list.   Episode Notes Rafael Nadal joins Alex Sherman for a wide-ranging conversation about his life, career, retirement and the new documentary chronicling his final chapter in professional tennis. The 22-time Grand Slam champion and 14-time French Open winner opens up about why he finally agreed to let cameras into his life, how his family and team adjusted to the documentary process, and why watching a film about himself is such a difficult experience.  The conversation explores Nadal’s earliest days in Manacor, Mallorca, where his uncle Toni Nadal began coaching him as a child. Nadal explains how natural ability, hard work, family support and the right environment all shaped his path, while emphasizing that he always loved tennis, even through the most physically challenging periods of his career. Nadal also reflects on the contrast between his on-court intensity and his off-court personality, his famous routines and rituals, and the mental focus required to compete at the highest level. He discusses his legendary rivalry with Roger Federer, why their opposing styles made the matchup so special, and why he believes Novak Djokovic’s record makes him the greatest tennis player of all time by the numbers. The episode also covers Nadal’s retirement, the hip injury that ultimately ended his playing career, and why he feels confident there was nothing left in the tank. Looking ahead, Nadal shares his focus on expanding the Rafa Nadal Academy, growing his foundation, spending time on business projects, and why full-time coaching is not currently part of his life plan.   Topics discussed: Rafael Nadal’s Netflix documentary and why he finally agreed to participate Growing up in Manacor, Mallorca and training with Toni Nadal Winning regional junior tennis titles at a young age Why Nadal always loved tennis despite injuries and pressure The difference between Nadal’s competitive mindset and personal life Nadal’s rivalry with Roger Federer and their contrasting styles The purpose behind Nadal’s on-court routines and rituals Retirement, injuries and the end of Nadal’s professional career Life after tennis, including the Rafa Nadal Academy and foundation Novak Djokovic, the GOAT debate and tennis records Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner and the future of men’s tennis Nadal’s most meaningful tournament wins, including Roland Garros, Wimbledon 2008, Australian Open 2022 and the US Open Timestamps: 01:39 Watching a documentary about his own life and career 02:18 Nadal’s early childhood in Mallorca and first tennis memories 04:04 Why he never hated tennis, even during difficult periods 05:32 Life after fame and returning to his real life after retirement 06:57 Roger Federer, elegance and what made their rivalry unique 08:14 Nadal’s rituals, routines and focus during competition 09:42 Retirement, injuries and why his career ended the way it did 11:33 Why a comeback is not part of Nadal’s next chapter 12:03 Rafa Nadal Academy, foundation work and business projects 12:55 Whether Nadal would ever coach a player full time 13:38 Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner and the GOAT debate 14:46 Nadal’s most meaningful career victories Mentioned in this episode: Netflix documentary about Rafael Nadal Rafa Nadal Academy Rafa Nadal Foundation Roland Garros Wimbledon 2008 Australian Open 2022 US Open 2010 and 2013 Roger Federer Novak Djokovic Carlos Alcaraz Jannik Sinner Toni Nadal David Ellison Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Summary NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum joins Alex Sherman to discuss the league’s surging ratings, new media partnerships, international expansion plans, ticket accessibility, draft lottery changes, and how AI could shape officiating. The conversation offers a high-level look at where the NBA is headed across Europe, Africa, Seattle, Las Vegas, and beyond.   Episode Notes NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum joins Alex Sherman for a wide-ranging conversation on the business, growth, and future of professional basketball. Tatum discusses why NBA ratings are climbing, how new media partners like NBC and Amazon are helping tell player stories, and why the league sees major long-term opportunities in Europe, Africa, and domestic expansion markets.  The episode also covers the economics of NBA Finals ticket prices, the league’s approach to fan accessibility, the evolving draft lottery system, and how technology and AI may assist referees with calls in the future. Plus, sports professor Rick Horrow joins the podcast to talk this week in sports.   Topics discussed: Why NBA regular season and playoff ratings have surged The impact of star players, competitive balance, and Finals viewership How NBC, Amazon, ABC, and ESPN support NBA storytelling and distribution President Donald Trump attending Knicks-Spurs NBA Finals Game 3 Jim Dolan, the New York Knicks, and the team’s Finals run High NBA Finals ticket prices and secondary market dynamics NBA Europe expansion plans and the target launch timeline What the NBA is looking for in European ownership groups Potential NBA Europe cities, investors, media partners, and competition model Basketball Africa League growth, investor interest, and economic opportunity Domestic NBA expansion discussions around Las Vegas and Seattle Other possible future markets, including Mexico City and Vancouver Draft lottery reform, anti-tanking incentives, and the proposed 3-2-1 system Player availability, regular season length, and the role of the Emirates NBA Cup AI and technology in officiating, including goaltending reviews Timestamps: 01:43 New NBA media rights partners, NBC, Amazon, ABC, and ESPN 02:35 President Trump attending Knicks-Spurs Finals Game 3 03:46 Jim Dolan, the Knicks, and the team’s turnaround 04:49 NBA Finals ticket prices and fan accessibility 07:01 NBA Europe expansion plans and possible launch timing 08:46 What makes a desirable NBA Europe owner 09:36 How NBA Europe could interact with NBA teams 11:50 NBA Africa investment opportunity and Basketball Africa League growth 14:07 Media partner interest for NBA Europe 15:10 Domestic expansion focus on Las Vegas and Seattle 17:09 Draft lottery reform, anti-tanking, and competitive balance 19:21 The ongoing Aspiration lawsuit process 20:32 Regular season length, player availability, and the Emirates NBA Cup 22:39 Potential NBA rule changes and competition committee priorities 23:23 AI and technology in NBA officiating Mentioned in this episode: NBA NBA Finals New York Knicks San Antonio Spurs NBC Amazon ABC ESPN Basketball Africa League NBA Europe FIBA Emirates NBA Cup Madison Square Garden Garden of Dreams Foundation Las Vegas Seattle Mexico City Vancouver Summer League AI officiating technology   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

MLS commissioner Don Garber breaks down why the 2026 World Cup is “rocket fuel” for Major League Soccer—and what metrics (attendance, media coverage, social growth, and player movement) will prove it. He also explains MLS 3.0, the league’s post-World Cup calendar shift, and what he’d change about the Apple TV model as MLS plans its next media rights chapter. Alex also speaks with Mark Trübenbacher, CEO of Stadium Growth Lighting.  They are the company in charge of preserving the grass on every World Cup pitch.  Key topics and takeaways How MLS plans to measure the World Cup effect: attendance lift, media coverage, social followers, fan engagement, and talent inflow after 2026 “This game on us”: why 22 MLS teams plan free tickets for the first match after the World Cup to convert new fans What MLS 3.0 means: post-World Cup strategy, new calendar format, roster rule updates, and increased marketing/content distribution Calendar realignment: moving toward the international calendar to better match transfer windows and global competition Building a global league: brand ambitions, club valuations, and why MLS wants more than one globally recognized team Life after Messi in Miami: why Garber believes Inter Miami can sustain global momentum beyond a single superstar Apple TV partnership lessons: why MLS took the risk, what worked, and why the paid-subscription “experiment” didn’t fully land (yet) Next media deal strategy: Garber’s case for multiple partners and why “streaming reach” can be misunderstood vs. linear reach CBA priorities (expiring after the 2027 season): player access, biometrics/data, and how AI is becoming embedded across the business Integrity and betting: prediction markets, risk controls, FIFA monitoring, and Garber’s mention of a deal with Polymarket Succession planning: what Garber says about his contract through 2027 and the league’s ongoing search process World Cup logistics and ticket pricing: why he expects concerns to fade once the tournament begins, and how FIFA executes at scale Timestamps 24:08 World Cup 2026 as “rocket fuel” + how MLS will measure the impact 25:57 Why World Cups tend to create a pro-league “bump” (and what matters more long-term) 27:22 “This game on us” free-ticket push after the World Cup 27:53 What MLS 3.0 is and what changes after 2026 31:00 Calendar shift + transfer-window alignment 32:01 Valuations, global brand building, and competing with top European clubs 34:44 Agree/Disagree: fan growth and league competition 37:30 Apple TV deal, innovation, and the limits of the paywall model 39:27 Why the next MLS media deal may need multiple partners 41:03 CBA issues: player access, biometrics, and AI 43:20 Betting integrity, monitoring systems, and Polymarket 44:47 Garber on succession and his 2027 timeline 49:30 World Cup concerns: politics, logistics, and ticket pricing 51:36 FIFA operations at scale and why the in-stadium experience wins Links & resources Major League Soccer: https://www.mlssoccer.com/ MLS Season Pass (Apple TV): https://tv.apple.com/ U.S. Soccer: https://www.ussoccer.com/ FIFA: https://www.fifa.com/ Polymarket: https://polymarket.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

RCX Sports has been building a youth sports platform around pro-league partnerships—now it’s scaling with new investment. In this conversation, host Alex Sherman sits down with Eli Manning and RCX Sports CEO/founder Izell Reese to break down the acquisition by Brand Velocity Group (BVG), how the business works, and the bigger question: can private equity and “keep it affordable” youth sports actually coexist?  They explain RCX’s model as a services-and-licensed-gear engine supporting local organizations like Parks & Recs and YMCAs, while licensing pro league branding for uniforms and equipment—what Reese describes as “Little League baseball meets fanatics.”  Eli frames the investment thesis in human terms: access, life lessons, and grassroots community reach—plus the built-in fandom flywheel when kids play under real NFL team logos at a young age.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Broadcasting from Paris during the French Open, Brad Gilbert joins Alex Sherman to unpack the business of tennis through three lenses: playing, coaching, and broadcasting—plus what’s really happening behind the scenes right now at Roland Garros. Gilbert argues tennis is in a healthy place globally, but remains star-driven—especially in the U.S. market. From there, the conversation moves into the divergent dynamics of the men’s and women’s tours, why combined events matter, and whether tennis should eventually operate as a single unified tour.   A major theme is player power: Gilbert revisits the ATP’s modern structure, explains why independent-contractor status makes collective bargaining difficult, and lays out what unions could change—particularly for players ranked outside the top tier who are paying their own travel, coaching, and support-team expenses. The episode also connects those economics to youth development and the pressure on families to “go all in” early, with Gilbert emphasizing balance and education even for elite prospects. Later, Sherman digs into the coaching marketplace—how coaches get hired, what contracts actually look like in tennis, and why relationships can end quickly in a results-driven environment. Gilbert also reflects on his broadcasting career, including the end of his long ESPN relationship and his current work with Tennis Channel and his podcast.   Key topics covered: The state of tennis today and why it’s still a global, star-driven sport Men’s vs. women’s tour dynamics and the value of combined events One tour vs. two: the case for ATP/WTA alignment—and the complications Why player unions matter, and how prize money debates tie to power and governance The economic squeeze on players outside the top 100 (and why Slams matter most) Youth tennis pathways: academy pressure vs. education and long-term development The business of coaching: week-to-week realities, incentives, and “bigger better deal” moves Broadcasting career shifts: ESPN contract ending, Tennis Channel, and new media projects French Open outlook, including conditions, favorites, and how heat can change outcomes Timestamps: 01:57 Men’s vs. women’s tour health and the impact of combined events 02:55 Should ATP and WTA merge—and what would it take? 03:48 Player protest context, prize money, and why unions change leverage 05:32 Who benefits most from higher payouts (and why rankings matter) 07:04 Youth tennis development, risk, and the case for balance + education 10:32 The business of coaching: how deals form and how coaches get paid 13:32 Why some coaching relationships last—and others end fast 14:29 Broadcasting business: ESPN departure and career transitions 17:15 Tennis Channel work, podcasting, and building audience in new ways 18:10 French Open predictions, heat-wave impacts, and betting-style “field” logic Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What you’ll hear in this episode Why the Jazz chose an organizational reset—and how owners weigh “push forward” vs. “scale back” when assets, caps, and timelines collide The incentives (and controversy) behind tanking, including Utah’s NBA fine and what the league may change next How a top lottery pick can reshape an NBA franchise faster than almost any other sport Why Ryan Smith prioritizes passion-fit in sports ownership (and why he stepped away from soccer) The Utah Mammoth’s early momentum: building a new fanbase, culture, and “firsts” from the ground up A behind-the-scenes look at a unique shared hub for pro basketball and hockey—including community access and integrated sports medicine The future of regional sports networks: reach vs. revenue, direct-to-consumer streaming, free over-the-air broadcasts, and what comes next for NBA local rights   Timestamps 01:44 — Why the Jazz chose a full reset and stockpiled draft assets 03:33 — Tanking incentives, the NBA fine, and whether the league should intervene 07:29 — Draft lottery reform ideas (including “flat odds”) and unintended consequences 10:03 — No. 2 pick stakes and whether “Utah ties” matter in draft decisions 13:06 — The Jazz/Mammoth shared facility vision: practice, corporate hub, and community access 15:35 — What surprised Ryan about owning an NHL team and why Utah embraced hockey fast 18:30 — Expansion mindset in sports ownership and why it’s “addicting” 20:25 — Why Smith exited soccer ownership: timing, focus, and personal passion 22:24 — Jazz Plus, local broadcast reach, and how regional sports media may evolve 28:16 — The biggest surprise of sports ownership: fandom, live events, and city impact Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ronda Rousey joins Alex Sherman to unpack the economics of MMA, why UFC fighter pay remains a structural issue, and how the streaming era could reshape the business of fighting. Starting from the realities faced by lower-tier athletes—minimum per-fight guarantees, coach percentages, and taxes—Rousey explains how quickly “big league” fighting can still add up to poverty-level income. She argues the core problem is leverage: without credible alternatives to the UFC, fighters are stuck with take-it-or-leave-it contracts. Rousey outlines why she believes streaming is the inflection point. In her view, streamers can pay upfront for premium fight content in a way that reduces reliance on traditional pay-per-view mechanics—and makes it feasible to build meaningful competition. She describes her push to work with MVP and why she sees Netflix as the only platform big enough to truly challenge the UFC at scale. The conversation also covers Rousey’s upcoming return to fighting against Gina Carano—how the matchup idea originated, why early UFC talks didn’t ultimately land, and how the modern distribution shift changed the opportunity set. Rousey contrasts the classic pay-per-view structure (earning a share per view) with the newer streaming-first deal model, noting she can’t disclose exact numbers yet but expects details to be publicized after the fight. Beyond the money, Rousey makes the case that fight promotions win when they sell stories, not just belts or brands—pointing to how major streaming events can draw massive attention when audiences care about the fighters involved. She also reflects on the overlap between combat sports and entertainment, her path through WWE and acting, and the mindset she brings to competition—whether she likes an opponent or not.   Key topics covered Minimum UFC pay math and why three fights a year can still be “poverty level” Why competition (not just incremental raises) is the leverage fighters need How the streaming model changes MMA economics and upfront rights payments Why Rousey believes fewer, bigger “can’t-miss” cards could outperform oversaturation Pay-per-view incentives vs. streaming deal structures for top fighters Storytelling, star power, and why audiences tune in to fighters—not just titles WWE culture vs. MMA culture, and the entertainment skill set behind pro fighting   Timestamps 01:31 Why minimum per-fight pay can translate into “poverty level” annually 01:48 Rousey’s fix: competition and a real alternative to the UFC 03:25 Oversaturation vs. “can’t-miss” marquee fights (fewer events, stacked cards) 04:36 How the Gina Carano comeback idea came together 06:13 How pay-per-view fighter compensation works (per-view share) 06:43 Streaming-era pay models and why specific numbers can’t be shared yet 08:43 Relationship with Dana White vs. the UFC as a company 11:49 Why fighting and acting careers overlap (MMA as entertainment) 13:13 WWE vs. UFC: collaborative show-building vs. adversarial competition 14:06 Is this a one-time return—or a second chapter? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Recorded live at Latinos in Sports in Miami, CNBC’s Alex Sherman sits down with New York Yankees icon Mariano Rivera for a wide-ranging conversation on the business—and evolution—of Major League Baseball, Rivera’s unlikely path from Panama to the Hall of Fame, and what he’s building after baseball. Rivera weighs in on one of MLB’s biggest looming issues: whether the league should adopt a salary cap, and what “fair competition” should look like across big- and small-market teams. He also reacts to the sport’s recent rule and gameplay shifts—from the pitch clock to automated strike-zone technology—and shares why he believes some changes risk removing the “human factor” that makes baseball special. The conversation then turns personal: Rivera recounts growing up without access to proper equipment, learning English after arriving in the U.S., and how a chance moment pitching in one game led to a Yankees tryout. He also tells the story of how the cutter emerged in 1997—an accidental discovery that became one of the most dominant pitches in sports history. Finally, Rivera opens up about post-retirement life, from his early business moves to his newest venture: “Most Heat,” a hot sauce line he calls authentic, passion-driven, and built to bring “the heat” from the mound into fans’ kitchens—complete with a May 15 launch at the Major League Baseball store in New York City. Key topics covered: MLB economics and competitive balance (salary cap and revenue sharing) Rule changes: pitch clock, automated strike-zone challenges, and the “human factor” Rivera’s rise from Panama to the Yankees (and learning English in the minors) The origin story of the cutter and becoming “The Sandman” Post-career entrepreneurship and launching “Most Heat” hot sauce   Timestamps: 01:56 Why Latinos are driving sports economy growth—and why Miami matters 15:05 Rivera on how much baseball he watches now 16:41 Salary cap debate: “Yes… it has to be fair to everybody” 19:13 Rule changes Rivera likes (and doesn’t like), including the pitch clock 22:53 Growing up in Panama without proper gear—and why it shaped him 28:37 Learning English after reaching the U.S. minors 30:48 The cutter origin story (1997) and why it changed everything 33:08 A George Steinbrenner story from the 2000 World Series era 35:14 “Enter Sandman” and why Rivera never listens to it outside the stadium 37:26 Rivera on giving back, mentoring young athletes, and prioritizing education 38:28 Why he got into a car dealership—and how “Most Heat” came together 43:53 “Most Heat” announcement + May 15 MLB store launch in NYC Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Susie Wolff (Managing Director, F1 Academy) sits down with Alex Sherman for a candid conversation about what F1 Academy is building—and why its mission goes far beyond a single “first woman in F1” headline. Wolff breaks down the structural and financial barriers that have kept women from advancing in motorsport, how F1 Academy is designed to grow a real talent pipeline, and why visibility matters for the next generation of drivers.   Key topics and takeaways: The real end goal of F1 Academy: developing talent, challenging perceptions, and expanding opportunity—not creating permanent segregation in racing Why funding matters: reducing the pay-to-race burden so drivers can prove performance without the usual financial gatekeeping Whether an all-women series could evolve in the future—and why the current priority is building depth in the talent pool Momentum in fandom: Wolff points to the rapid growth of younger female fans and what that means for the sport’s future Brand and team alignment: how F1 Academy secured buy-in from all F1 teams to run shared car identity and liveries, and why that matters for legitimacy and reach The media flywheel: why Formula One’s storytelling boom (Drive to Survive and beyond) changed the sport’s reach—and what that template unlocks for new audiences Wolff’s personal journey: early racing roots in Scotland, learning to compete in a male-dominated environment, and the mindset shift that comes with confidence and leadership How the NFL Draft became a traveling mega-event—and why it delivers huge value for the league and host cities “Monetizing hope”: why the draft functions like a Super Bowl moment for every fan base, even the worst teams The mock draft / draft grades media machine—and why the “report cards” are largely unknowable in real time Why investor demand is pushing up valuations in MLB, NHL, and the NWSL as NFL/NBA prices soar NWSL expansion fees as a proxy for broader second-tier sports growth and scarcity dynamics Conversation timeline (mm:ss): 02:10 Why F1 Academy exists and what success really looks like 03:31 Should there be a separate women’s racing league? 05:12 How F1 Academy got every F1 team to back the series 07:48 Wolff’s memoir Driven and lessons from racing’s toughest moments 09:45 How she got started in racing—and when F1 became the goal 12:30 Leadership ambitions, focus, and building F1 Academy for the long term 13:21 Why docuseries changed F1’s global audience 15:18 New storytelling partnerships and reaching new fans 16:49 What needs to change next: education, access, and expanding opportunity   Links & resources: F1 Academy (official): https://www.f1academy.com/ F1: The Academy on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81722244 Hello Sunshine (Reese Witherspoon’s production company): https://hello-sunshine.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fernando Mendoza joins Alex Sherman to discuss an unconventional draft run-up, the mindset needed to lead at the next level, and how he’s approaching brand-building and money management before ever taking an NFL snap. They start with Mendoza’s pre-draft interactions—combine meetings with multiple teams and a single Top 30 visit—plus what it means to focus on finding the one franchise that truly believes in you. From there, Mendoza reflects on meeting Tom Brady during his Raiders visit, why Brady’s mental and emotional approach stands out to him, and how he plans to learn from great coaches and teammates if that becomes his landing spot. Mendoza also opens up about the role sports psychology plays in his development: visualization, breathing habits, sleep, and a daily commitment to improving physically, mentally, and emotionally. Even as a projected top pick, he explains why he still sees himself as “at the bottom of the totem pole” among NFL quarterbacks—and why earning leadership matters more than being handed it. On the business side, Mendoza discusses his education path (including business programs at Cal and Indiana), the importance his family places on being informed, and how NIL has changed the timeline for athletes to form major brand partnerships. He highlights his partnership with Boss (alongside Adidas), and how presenting well off the field is part of the identity he’s intentionally building.   Key topics covered: Draft process realities: combine meetings vs. Top 30 visits, and why “you only need one team” Meeting Tom Brady through the Raiders and what Mendoza hopes to learn from him Sports psychology habits: visualization, breathing, sleep, and mental performance training Competing vs. starting right away: Mendoza’s “whatever the coach decides” approach NIL partnerships, personal brand building, and why Boss fits the “class act” standard he’s aiming for Investing priorities: saving, living frugally, giving back, and his family-first motivation tied to his mother’s MS Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Lillian Rizzo joins Alex Sherman on what may really be behind the Justice Department's antitrust investigation into the NFL. Then, Alex speaks with Shelly Cayette-Weston, President of Business Operations for the Charlotte Hornets, about how the organization is strengthening its business foundation while building a winning culture on and off the court. She details what the president of business operations role looks like for an NBA franchise, from overseeing ticket sales, sponsorships, operations, and community engagement to leading fan experience strategy across more than 150 events at Spectrum Center each year. She also explains how the Hornets are measuring progress through attendance growth, business performance, and deeper community connection. Alex and Shelly also explore why the Hornets’ recent gains are about more than improved on-court play. Shelly points to long-term ownership vision, fan re-engagement, market growth in Charlotte, and major investments like the $245 million Spectrum Center renovation as key drivers of momentum. She also discusses the changing regional sports media landscape, and how the organization is thinking about future revenue growth across ticketing, premium experiences, partnerships, and media rights. Topics discussed:  01:57 Hornets attendance growth, franchise momentum, and building a winning culture  03:08 Lessons Shelly Cayette-Weston brought from the Cleveland Cavaliers to Charlotte  05:18 Why business performance is not solely dependent on wins and losses  06:53 How fan engagement, legacy fans, and the Spectrum Center renovation boosted attendance  07:39 The Hornets’ revenue strategy across ticket sales, sponsorships, premium, and media  10:08 The collapse of the regional sports network model and what it means for local NBA rights  11:29 What is next for the Hornets, including the Novant Health practice facility and long-term fan experience plans  12:47 Why the franchise believes its young core and draft capital position it for sustainable growth Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dom Chu joins Alex Sherman to break down the latest storylines heading into the Masters. Then, Lindsey Vonn joins Alex to share how she’s recovering physically and mentally after a major crash—and what it could mean for the final chapter of her ski racing career. They also dig into longevity in elite sports, why Olympic athletes struggle financially, and how storytelling and women’s sports investing are changing the game. Lindsey Vonn sits down with Alex Sherman for a candid conversation about recovery, resilience, and what it really takes to build a lasting career in an Olympic sport. Lindsey opens up about where she is in rehab—moving from a wheelchair to crutches—and how she’s balancing patience, progress, and the uncertainty of what comes next. They discuss the realities of returning from a severe injury, including the impact of multiple surgeries, cartilage damage, and the steps still ahead (including hardware removal and an ACL replacement). Lindsey also shares her mindset around risk and crashing in downhill skiing—and why she focuses on progress rather than fear. The conversation expands into the bigger picture of longevity in sports, with reflections on athletes competing at older ages and what motivation, physical readiness, and personal drive look like later in a career. They touch on Tiger Woods’ comeback efforts, as well as examples like Tom Brady and Lewis Hamilton, and what inspiration (and caution) can come from watching other elite competitors push the timeline. In the second half, Lindsey gets into the business side of skiing and Olympic sports: how few athletes can truly make a sustainable living, what she learned early from her father about building a career beyond results, and what she believes could help the sport grow. Her take is clear: sports are entertainment, and athletes who can tell their story—especially through social media—can build deeper fan connection, visibility, and long-term earning power. Lindsey also shares why she’s passionate about investing in women’s sports, why she believed the category was undervalued, and how cultural momentum is finally “moving the needle” across leagues and athletes. She talks about taking a personal, values-driven approach to partnerships and mentions a campaign with InVivid focused on educating people about antibodies and immune health.   Timestamps (select moments) 01:56 Why she doesn’t want her crash to be the final chapter—and what’s still ahead medically 03:03 Recovery outlook, fasciotomy concerns, and regaining function 04:26 Risk, crashing, and why she doesn’t dwell on fear 06:07 Longevity in sports: Tiger Woods, Tom Brady, and competing later in life 08:03 The economics of ski racing and why most athletes can’t earn a strong living 09:57 How athletes can grow their sport through storytelling and social media 11:07 Values-driven partnerships, sponsorship longevity, and the InVivid antibodies campaign 12:56 Investing in women’s sports and why the category has been undervalued Links & Resources Otter.ai transcription: https://otter.ai         Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Landon Donovan sits down with Alex Sherman for a wide-ranging conversation on the 2026 World Cup, the business and visibility challenges facing Major League Soccer, and the personal realities behind elite performance—including depression, therapy, and the pressure to be “on” at all times. Key topics covered Why the 2026 World Cup could be a true “before and after” moment for American soccer (and why it could also be overhyped) What a “successful” World Cup looks like for the USMNT: a deep run plus iconic moments that change public perception How MLS stacks up against top European leagues—and what billionaire ownership could mean if spending and ambition rise The MLS–Apple TV model: what worked, what limited reach, and why broader promotion still matters for a growing league Donovan’s book motivations: moving beyond highlight-reel memoirs to talk honestly about depression, family, and identity A candid look at depressive episodes, including a drug-induced crisis and how meditation helped him survive it Youth soccer in the U.S.: “pay-to-play,” win-first culture, broken incentives—and Donovan’s stated mission to change it Timestamps 10:26 — Why 2026 could reshape U.S. soccer, and a 1994 World Cup flashback 10:28 — What “success” looks like for the USMNT (deep run + iconic moments) 10:30 — MLS ownership, spending power, and what exposure to the World Cup can unlock 10:31 — MLS vs. Europe: where the league stands today 10:36 — The MLS–Apple TV deal and the challenge of reach vs. revenue 10:37 — Why Donovan wrote a book—and why mental health is central to it 10:43 — Depression, suicidal thoughts, and the role of therapy and meditation 10:47 — Retirement, ownership interest, and why youth soccer reform is his “next frontier”   Resources mentioned Stream Major League Soccer on Apple TV MLS viewing FAQ and details on watching matches Lincoln City FC (club Donovan mentions investing in) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Legendary Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim sits down with Alex Sherman a few days before March Madness to break down the realities of NIL, the transfer portal, and the shifting power structure in college basketball. Boeheim argues the sport has, in many ways, improved on the court—older rosters, more talent staying in school, and an influx of international players—but says meaningful regulation (contracts, salary caps, transfer limits) is still needed to prevent the system from spinning further out of control.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tyler Reddick joins Alex Sherman to unpack a red-hot start to the NASCAR season—three straight wins—and what’s actually behind the momentum. Reddick explains how experience at specific tracks and lessons from previous near-misses helped him execute when it mattered, including reflecting on coming up just short in the Daytona 500 and using prior failures as motivation to close races out. A big focus of the conversation is 23XI Racing’s leadership—and the reality of what it’s like to drive for an ownership group that includes Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin. Reddick shares a favorite Jordan moment that turned into real performance fuel, and he pushes back on the idea that Jordan is “just the money,” describing how both Jordan and Hamlin contribute leadership, perspective, and hands-on involvement (including Hamlin’s role in building out the team’s “Airspeed” facility). They also zoom out to the business of NASCAR: what a winning streak can do for sponsorship conversations, why partner exposure matters as much as prize money, and how driver compensation can vary widely depending on contract structure (salary vs. winnings/purse-heavy deals). Reddick addresses whether any fallout lingered after 23XI’s lawsuit against NASCAR and the eventual settlement, and he explains why, from his seat, things stayed professional at the track and the relationship is moving forward. Finally, Reddick weighs in on NASCAR’s current trajectory amid leadership changes and shifting motorsports attention, including the role of the Next Gen car and why tire strategy (and Goodyear’s changes) can significantly impact racing quality. The episode closes with a look at AI: while Reddick doesn’t use AI in-car, he says teams are exploring how AI might help them process overwhelming amounts of performance and race data more efficiently over time.  01:30 Michael Jordan’s “jab” that motivated Reddick to improve on superspeedways  03:05 How Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin actually lead at 23XI Racing  05:13 23XI’s lawsuit vs. NASCAR, the settlement, and whether anything lingers  06:44 Winning streak economics: sponsors, exposure, and new partnership interest  08:06 How driver pay works: salary vs. winnings and contract structure  09:33 NASCAR’s direction, leadership change, Next Gen car, and why tires matter  11:21 AI in NASCAR: using AI to sort racing data (and why it’s still early)  13:29 Phoenix sendoff and Michael Jordan’s leadership style   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Contessa Brewer speaks with Inter Miami CF Managing Owner Jorge Mas and Nu CEO Cristina Junqueira about their new stadium naming rights deal. They also discuss the business impact of Lionel Messi and the upcoming World Cup Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman talks with sports business professor Rick Horrow about the stadium building boom and what’s fueling it. Then, longtime ESPN host Chris Berman joins Sherman to break down ESPN’s evolution, its NFL ownership deal, and why Berman believes the Damar Hamlin incident may have impacted the league’s push for an 18th game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman sits down with YouTube creator Jesse Riedel, known to millions as "Jesser."They discuss how Riedel scaled from virtually zero audience to more than 37 million subscribers, turning sports content into a digital media powerhouse. He also breaks down what he sees for YouTube's future sports content. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman sits down with longtime NFL writer Ken Belson to discuss his new book “Every Day is Sunday,” the evolution of the league, and the business buzz surrounding Super Bowl week. Then, Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana joins the podcast to reflect on his legendary career, his pivot into venture capital, and where he sees the NFL heading next. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman talks to Hans Schroeder, the NFL's executive vice president of media distribution. They discuss whether the league will trigger its opt-out clause to renegotiate TV rights deals early, the NFL's landmark agreement with Disney/ESPN and why the league is bullish on ESPN's future value, potential expansion of its YouTube partnership, what it would take to convince players to accept an 18-game season, and the NFL's efforts to create a dedicated media package for international games. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Contessa Brewer talks with NFL EVP Jeff Miller about the rise of prediction markets and how the NFL is navigating it. Miller says the league is playing the long game. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman speaks with quarterback Kirk Cousins about his free-agency strategy, an 18-game season and his Zebra Technologies partnership on player tracking. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Notre Dame star Jeremiyah Love reacts to the Irish missing the College Football Playoff, explains why NIL wasn’t a priority early in his college career, and breaks down how he’s preparing for the NFL draft. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman talks to former NFL quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who played 17 seasons for nine different teams before becoming an analyst for Amazon's Thursday Night Football. They discuss why Fitzpatrick thinks an 18-game season is a "non-starter" with players, why players are embracing the NFL's international expansion, the rapid adoption of AI and analytics, using his Harvard connections to manage finances and investments, and what makes Amazon's Thursday Night Football coverage distinctive. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hall of Famer Jerry Rice talks Super Bowl memories, modern NFL technology and why accountability and hard work was the key to his success on and off the field. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman talks to former NFL star quarterback and 2016 MVP Matt Ryan. They discuss Ryan's return to the Atlanta Falcons as the team's president of football, utilizing his on-field leadership skills with this new job, how he's using AI and analytics to evaluate players, the latest on the Falcons' quarterback situation between Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr., how NIL is impacting college football, and how he manages his finances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Levi's Stadium to leadership strategy, 49ers' principal owner Jed York discusses the pressures of ownership, long-term decision-making, and what's ahead for the franchise. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Damar Hamlin and Tedy Bruschi reflect on the January 2 cardiac emergency and how they’re now working to raise awareness around heart health. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Philadelphia Eagles star shares why farmland is part of his investment strategy and explains his concerns about an 18-game NFL season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The NFL legend is critical about the pro football hall of fame induction process and he sheds light on his biggest financial mistakes Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman sits down with NBC Sports President Rick Cordella to break down the company’s “legendary February,” as NBC holds the rights to three major tentpole events. They discuss the scale of the production, the strategy behind it, and how NBC plans to turn its massive investment into profits. Plus, men’s gold-medal snowboarding favorite Scotty James joins us to talk about the state of the sport and what to expect heading into the Olympic Games. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman sits down with 2x Super Bowl winning MVP Eli Manning. Manning breaks down why Harbaugh is the right hire for the Giants, his relationship with ownership, and whether he’d ever consider a deeper role with the team. He also weighs in on Jaxson Dart’s potential, shares his Super Bowl picks, offers advice for players on the sport’s biggest stage, and explains why he’s bullish on the future of flag football. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman sits down with sports business professor Rick Horrow to break down the biggest storylines in sports—from college football and the NFL coaching carousel to the latest developments in WNBA labor negotiations. Sherman then speaks with ESPN tennis commentator Patrick McEnroe about the potential impact of an ATP–WTA merger, why Saudi investment is set to play an even larger role in tennis’s future, and what ESPN’s recent broadcast shakeup means for the sport. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman sits down with Mike Tirico, host and play-by-play voice for NBC Sports, and Cris Collinsworth, analyst for NBC's Sunday Night Football. They discuss the evolving role of quarterback, the craft of broadcasting and they share their Super Bowl predictions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Contessa Brewer speaks with former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a central figure in the fight to legalize sports betting, about why he’s drawing a hard line against prediction markets. They also discuss the current state of sports betting. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman and Michael Ozanian break down CNBC’s Official College Sports Valuations, examining what’s driving growth across the business of college athletics. Then, legendary sports agent Leigh Steinberg joins the conversation to discuss his top client Patrick Mahomes, why leagues need to take a tougher stance on sports-betting violations, and his perspective on the rapid changes reshaping college sports. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman talks with Robert Griffin III--former star NFL quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner, and current Fox Sports analyst--about his "RGIII" origin story, the University of Utah's landmark private equity deal, how the transfer portal is impacting college sports, how he would reform college football, NCAA playoff predictions, and USAA's work to serve the military community ahead of the annual Army-Navy football game.Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman talks with Michele Kang, businesswoman and owner of the NWSL's Washington Spirit, and Cindy Parlow Cone, president of the U.S .Soccer Federation. They discuss Kang's $55 million investment into women's sports research and how it will help fuel U.S. Soccer in the future. They also discuss Washington Spirit star Trinity Rodman and the impact of the upcoming World Cup. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman talks with valuations guru Michael Ozanian about soaring NHL valuations.Then, Scott Wapner sits down with pro golfer Rory McIlroy and TPG President Todd Sisitsky. They break down their sports investment partnership, where they see opportunity, and how Rory is shaping his post-golf business career.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman and Lillian Rizzo discuss who won the ESPN-YouTube carriage dispute. Then, Contessa Brewer talks with PWHL’s Amy Scheer about the rapid growth of women’s hockey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman discusses the latest gambling scandal with CNBC gambling correspondent Contessa Brewer. He also sits down with Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon to talk about the team’s dynasty, why she believes A’ja Wilson could become the greatest player in WNBA history, and why she thinks it’s time for new league leadership. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CNBC's Alex Sherman spoke with WTA CEO Portia Archer about the state women's tennis, her desire to unite men's and women's pro leagues, and the organization's partnership with Saudi Arabia. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.