Ballers’ Post

TNT Sports’ Bleacher Report is transforming its women’s sports media platform HighlightHER, debuting B/R W Sports with a new look, feel and content approach. “The goal is to be the preeminent brand on social for women’s sports,” said Katie Arkins, VP and head of programming strategy at Bleacher Report. https://lnkd.in/ebUxBQvS

#Sports is more than a way of life for many communities, but perhaps none so much as Visit Indy, which has hosted the Super Bowl, Final 4 (multiple times) and the USA Swimming Olympic trials -- as well as the biggest car race of the year. But then there is #RoundRock, which proclaims itself as the sports capital of #Texas, and Morristown, TN, which is building its reputation through sports as well. Check out this article on the crucial role sports can have on communities big and small here!

As the world of sports expands deeper into mainstream media, it comes as no surprise to see the recent deal between Manchester City’s owners, City Football Group (CFG), and Sony Pictures Television (SPT). This ambitious collaboration marks a significant expansion of Manchester City’s influence from the pitch to the screen, uniting City Studios and Sony's creative expertise to develop an array of new football-themed television shows. CFG and SPT will jointly develop original scripted, nonfiction, and children's TV projects, focusing on stories from CFG’s clubs and players, as well as broader football themes. Leveraging CFG’s global network, which includes 12 clubs like New York City FC and Melbourne City FC, this venture aims to amplify their brand's global reach and engagement.  The financial benefits for CFG are substantial, opening new revenue streams through global content distribution and merchandising. This strategic move sets a precedent for other clubs, as they consider ways to build brand and activate global audiences. This uniquely collaborative venture can open new doors for the future of sports entertainment. #SportsMedia #SportsInvestment #ManchesterFC #Sony #NewMedia

Bleacher Report is unveiling a women’s sports-focused social brand, B/R W, a day before 3-on-3 women’s basketball league Unrivaled makes its debut on TNT Sports’ networks. WNBA legend Candace Parker will be involved as a podcaster. “Our goal is to create the preeminent social destination for women’s sports,” Bleacher Report VP and head of programming strategy Katie Arkins said in a video interview. “And it’s trying to use that lens to figure out … ‘What is missing from being a women’s sports fan?’”

You follow Savannah Bananas, right? 🍌🍌🍌 I couldn't visit Savannah without seeing Grayson Stadium. That's where they play. Unfortunately, there wasn't a game going on. Heck, I wouldn't have been able to get tickets anyway. They're sold out for the entire season! But it was still cool to step on the grounds of greatness. Not greatness in terms of World Series rings like the Yanks. 💍 But greatness in terms of industry disruption, authentic entertainment, and social media content that not many brands can match. You've probably been following along with Jesse Cole and his story for years. Just like me. And it's been incredible to watch. Which means you know some of the things that make this team stand out: ⚾ Something unique at every game. ⚾ 2-hour limit on games, so they don't go on & on. ⚾ All sorts of extra rules to keep the game interesting - like no walks (instead they're called sprints), no mound visits, and fan foul ball catches are real outs. ⚾ Tickets are a flat $35 and don't scale based on demand. ⚾ There's singing, dancing, costumes, and craziness Their social media following is only one example of their success: 🔅 Instagam: 2.5 million 🔅 TikTok: 8.4 million 🔅 Twitter: 200k 🔅 Facebook: 2.2 million That's just evidence that what they're doing on the field matters and is making a difference. 🧢 Sports is like theater. Since it's live, you never know what to expect. And Jesse has embraced that to the absolute fullest extent. I'm glad I got to stop by and see the field. Just wish I could have caught a game. 🏟️ Maybe I'll be able to get a ticket next time they come to Syracuse or Cooperstown. Until then... Have you seen the Savannah Bananas yet? 🍌 Is it on your wishlist? 📑

Cincinnati isn’t just a city with sports teams—it’s a city defined by them. From the roar of Paycor Stadium during a Bengals game to the excitement of Great American Ball Park and TQL Stadium, Cincinnati's sports culture creates an undeniable energy that ripples across the city. But did you know this passion for sports impacts more than game-day traffic? Homes and properties near these stadiums often see a boost in value thanks to: 🏟️ 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 🍻 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗹, 📈 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 Take The Banks area, for example: once an underutilized space, it's now a vibrant hub for living, working, and playing—all thanks to Cincinnati’s sports ecosystem. As sports continue to thrive here, the property market around these venues evolves too, creating opportunities for homeowners and investors. 🏈 ⚾ ⚽🏡 #CincinnatiSports #RealEstateInsights #CincyLiving #BengalsNation #TQLStadium #PaycorStadium #LocalPride #RedsStadium

Looking back to my days at the ALSD and The National Sports Forum, there is one question that seems to be asked of every sports exec who speaks, “What keeps you up at night?” Sometimes it’s fun to put yourself in those shoes and this article from The Washington Post did that for me… As someone who spends most of their day tracking sports development projects as a part of our Legacy Programs, here is what keeps me up at night. While excitement continues to build with what the The Washington Post outlines as the forecasted 4th distinct era of sports venues here in America, my question is how will this impact the future of sports fans and fanatic loyalty? How will the fan experience change as fans see relocation used as leverage for funding? Do boycotts like what is happening in Oakland become more prevalent? Do we see emerging leagues like the UFL gain traction? While the A’s are receiving most of the media attention, we also see the St. Louis Battlehawks setting the UFL record with over 40k fans against the Arlington Renegades just years after the Rams moved to Los Angeles. Are modern fans loyal to teams, cities, specific players… or is the presumed feeling of loyalty diminishing? This conversation is taking place all over the country and in all major sports leagues. This new era of stadiums will inevitably be the most expensive projects in the history of this industry, but how do we solidify the past, present and future of our industry's fanbases? Will the fanatic loyalty of sports outlast the political tensions surrounding our stadiums? How is the idea of “Leaving a Legacy” going to be viewed as our industry continues to adapt?

Another huge year for sport is upon us. As we consider how to create the most impact for our clients, I took a step back and penned a few words for PRWeek UK, to re-assess exactly what that impact can and should look like. We know sport has the power to disrupt and unify in the most culturally influential ways. So, how can brands and rightsholders harness that influence to drive meaningful impact both commercially and for their communities? You can check it out here: https://lnkd.in/e4mn797P

What went into the #NHL Draft this past weekend at Sphere Entertainment Co. ? Here’s a quick read!