Sporticast

Scott and Eben speak with notable Wall Street (and sports) investor Roger Ehrenberg about the $12.5 billion Lakers deal, the changing face of sports ownership, and the thorniest questions that major leagues like the NBA and NFL are yet to solve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss more fallout from the stunning Lakers sale, including new reporting about Mark Walter's business empire and Joshua Kushner's AI-heavy portfolio. They also talk about Jeff Bezos buying into Liverpool, and a bizarre college sports legal battle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben are joined by Kurt Badenhausen to discuss an NBA bombshell, with the Los Angeles Lakers selling to Josh Kushner for $12.5 billion. They also talk about Kurt's latest NFL valuations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak with Ben Kennedy, the COO of NASCAR, about how the racing giant balances its traditional roots and its constant quest for innovation. They talk about new race locations, up-and-coming drivers, private equity and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben break down new MLS commissioner Larry Berg, a 'hybrid candidate' who was introduced to fans this week. They also talk about the Dodgers' embarrassment of riches, and LIV Golf funding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the rapid and stunning collapse of FIFA president Gianni Infantino's investment plan, which drew criticism for its merits, its lack of transparency and its potential ulterior motives. They also talk about Mauricio Pochettino's new contract as USMNT coach, and a crazy Friday night in college sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben break down the early reporting on FIFA's plan to sell a $4.2 billion stake in its commercial ventures. They also talk about college sports patch deals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss LeBron James signing with the Philadelphia 76ers. They also talk about the latest financials from the Green Bay Packers, new investors in the Athletics, the sale of The Team, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben break down this week's layoffs at ESPN. They also talk about the Walton and Mittal sports ownership empires, the World Cup finals ratings, and NFL economics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the two finalists to be the next MLS commissioner. They also talk about the end of the World Cup and Fanatics Fest in New York City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak with Telemundo soccer broadcaster Andrés Cantor about the World Cup, the U.S. team's exit, his love for Argentina, the prospect of a 64-team tournament, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the Khosla family—led by tech billionaire Vinod Khosla and his wife, Neeru Khosla—agreeing to buy the Seattle Seahawks for an NFL record $9.61 billion. They talk about the Khosla family's background, the deal price and the yet-to-be-announced financing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak about the U.S. team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup following a blowout loss to Belgium. They also talk about looming layoffs coming to LIV Golf as the circuit seeks new funding. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the red card controversy involving U.S. striker Folarin Balogun in the lead-up to the team's game against Belgium. They also discuss Nike vs. Adidas, an MLSE stake sale and Versant making a sizable golf investment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kurt and Scott discuss the highest-paid tennis players, including Serena Williams at $40 million over the past 12 months. They also talk NBA Europe bids, Nike earnings and NBA accounting for the 2025-26 season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the latest with NBA Europe, including the finances of the basketball league hoping to launch in October 2027. They also talk about the World Cup, Scott's visit to the Vatican, and Serena Williams' return to Wimbledon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eben and Jacob discuss the NHL's chosen location (Texas) and owner (Dan Friedkin) for its 33rd team. They also talk about Brendan Sorsby, the World Cup, the NBA Draft, and PGA Tour changes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jacob Feldman and Justin Birnbaum discuss the latest sports video game news, including Netflix’s partnership with FIFA and the first new Backyard Sports title in years. Is there a lane for simple, nostalgic games in a world of high-quality simulations? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eben and Justin Birnbaum discuss latest from the World Cup. Fans have been the most enduring story of the games so far. They also talk about tickets, visas, transportation, and early success from the sport’s biggest names. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss a historic sports weekend in New York City, where a Knicks championship took over the streets. They also talk about the Carolina Hurricanes winning the Stanley Cup, and the U.S. World Cup team’s hot start against Paraguay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben talk about big news with a group that’s looking to expand its Seattle sports portfolio. They also talk about the latest with the World Cup, NBA Finals, and a potential watershed moment in college sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben talk about two major sporting events underway in the U.S.—the 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup and the NBA Finals. They talk about various business storylines, including World Cup host agreements, soaring ticket prices, and the American-ization of soccer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss Steph Curry’s new 10-year deal with Chinese sneaker brand Li-Ning. They also talk about the NBA Finals, the World Cup, and an Olympics trademark battle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss Serena Wiliams’ much anticipated (and curiously motivated) return to pro tennis. They also talk about the NBA Finals and Stanley Cup Final, which begin this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the New York Knicks’ return to the NBA Finals. They also talk about what a Princeton lacrosse national title says about NCAA economics and a new volleyball team in LA with a notable owner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the increased blending—and increased tension—between the major fashion labels and tennis’ biggest tournaments. They also discuss Fernando Tatis Jr.’s lawsuit against a company that is owed 10% of his MLB earnings forever, the NFL’s ongoing media negotiations, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal clinched its first Premier League championship in 22 years on Tuesday, thanks to investment from Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. Kurt and Jacob dive into the Kroenkes' success on both sides of the Atlantic, as well as the drama that remains at the bottom of the table and the top of the EFL Championship heading into the final week of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss MSG's plans to separate the Knicks and Rangers into two separate publicly traded companies. They discuss what that means for both the NBA and NHL teams. They also talk about a major rail work stoppage, and the potential relocation of one of NWSL's most valuable clubs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben break down the economics of a deep New York Knicks playoff run. They also talk about the World Cup ticket pricing controversy, and the Red Sox’s most successful theme night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kurt and Scott discuss broadcast networks' insatiable appetite for NFL games. They also talk Seattle Seahawks bidders, WNBA season kickoff, PGA Championship beer prices and recap Sportico's Invest West event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eben, Jacob and Lev discuss Duke’s controversial new deal with Amazon. They also talk NBA playoff chaos, the draft lottery, and Bryson DeChambeau’s uncertain future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss Sportico’s latest WNBA valuations, led by the Golden State Valkyries at $850 million. They talk about the economics of the league, its unique cap table structure, and the rapid growth it has seen. They also talk about a new KKR investment into MLS’s development league, the ongoing sale of the Vancouver Whitecaps, and LIV Golf’s uncertain future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the motivation behind the move toward 76-team men’s and women’s March Madness tournaments. They also talk about eligibility changes in college sports, an update on NBA Europe, and an NWSL expansion wrinkle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss a record marathon performance, with Sabastian Sawe becoming the first person to break the two-hour mark in an official race. They talk Adidas vs. Nike, shoes vs. humans, and some other storylines. They also talk about new technology in fencing, and technology they wish the NHL would adopt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak with Kurt Badenhausen about his latest list of the world’s most valuable soccer teams. They discuss the “broken system” that has zapped profits but continues to drive valuations. They talk about Tottenham’s potential relegation, Chelsea’s woes, the rightsizing of the two Spanish soccer giants, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the various unique reasons why the San Diego Padres are worth $3.9 billion. They also talk about the Boston Marathon, a controversial piece of Nike ad copy, the Dianna Russini-Mike Vrabel latest, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss a potentially massive shakeup in pro golf, with Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund PIF considering pulling its financial backing of LIV Golf. They also talk about a high-profile baseball lawsuit, and a tech mishap from Amazon in overtime of an NBA play-in game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak about their trip to the Masters, where Rory McIlroy won his second straight green jacket. They talk about the event’s reputation, its blend of tradition vs. modernity, and what other sports teams/events could learn from its success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben are joined by Lee Biggerstaff, a finance professor at Miami University in Ohio, to discuss his research about the correlation between a public-traded company’s performance and the amount of golf played by its CEO. They talk about the data, how it was collected, and what it says about golf. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss a major trade in the WNBA involving Angel Reese. They also talk about the PWHL’s post-Olympics growth, an NFL media partner going after the NFL’s antitrust exemption, and UCLA’s women’s basketball national title. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben are joined by Kurt Badenhausen to discuss his latest list of the highest paid athletes of all time. They touch on Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and the rest of the list. They talk about how athletes make money, how that’s changing, and what to expect from this list in the future. They close by talking about the NBA’s plans for Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss the ongoing sales of NFL and NBA franchises in Seattle. They debate whether the NFL would approve billionaire Elon Musk for ownership in the league. They also talk about the sale of the Connecticut Sun, two Indian cricket teams, and the Final Four. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prediction markets are everywhere, from MLB’s new deal with Polymarket to ire over trading opportunities tied to ongoing conflict in Iran. Hosts Scott Soshnick and Jacob Feldman are joined by Robinhood VP and GM of futures and prediction markets JB Mackenzie to discuss how the category has grown over the last year, why leagues are getting involved now and how Robinhood sees itself in relation to the likes of Kalshi and Polymarket—as well as DraftKings, Fanatics and FanDuel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben talk about how modern economics have made the NCAA men’s basketball tournament less fun, with fewer upsets and fewer Cinderella runs. They also talk about the WNBA labor accord, and the start of the MLB season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak with Rick Cole Jr., the athletic director at Hofstra, about his team’s berth in the men’s March Madness basketball tournament. Cole talks about the benefits for a school of Hofstra’s size, the financial gap between the Pride and schools like its first round opponent Alabama, and how he views the rapid changes underway in college sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben speak with Brad D’Arco, the director and lead consultant of D’Arco & Associates, about elite high school sports recruiting. They talk about how it differs from college, what schools want, and how NIL has changed things. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben talk about Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo’s 83-point outburst in the NBA. They also talk about an ownership shuffle with the New York Giants, PGA Tour changes, and Syracuse basketball’s disappearance from the national conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben talk about the very expensive unwinding of Tua Tagovailoa’s contract with the Miami Dolphins. They also talk about Donald Trump’s college sports reform efforts, a big antitrust settlement with Live Nation, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben talk about a notable shift in how WNBA players are discussing their labor battle. They also talk about an Atlanta Hawks strip club promo, and some recent sports team M&A. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott and Eben discuss a recent story about a Duke athletics risk assessment, which examined teams on campus most likely to unionize. They also talk more about Jack Hughes’ post-Olympics run, and a new group formed by President Donald Trump to explore college sports reform. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices