Author Archives: Jerry Milani

About Jerry Milani

Jerry Milani is a freelance writer and public relations executive living in Bloomfield, N.J. He has worked in P.R. for more than 30 years in college and conference sports media relations, two agencies and for the International Fight League, a team-based mixed martial arts league, and variouis sports and entertainment properties. Milani is a proud graduate of Fordham University and when not attending a Yankees or Rams game can be reached at Jerry (at) JerryMilani (dot) com.

FANZO Names the 25 Best Places to Watch the World Cup in America

FANZO, the sports bar finder, today unveiled its definitive city-by-city guide to the best places to watch FIFA World Cup 2026, naming a “home of the World Cup” venue in each of 25 major U.S. markets.

The list was built by analyzing search and engagement data from more than 20,000 venues across the United States, surfacing the bars and sports venues that fans are actively discovering and choosing to watch in – a real-time signal of where the best atmosphere and fan experience is, rather than a simple guess based on size or location.

As the World Cup reaches the sharp end of the tournament, the guide gives fans a data-backed answer to the question every soccer fan asks before kickoff: where’s the best place to watch near me?

FANZO’s 25 Homes Of The World Cup:

New York — Carraghers
Los Angeles — Wirtshaus German Restaurant and Biergarten
Las Vegas — Steiner’s
Houston — Social Beer Garden Htx
Chicago — Fado Irish Pub
San Francisco — Kezar Pub
Boston — The Dubliner Irish Pub
Phoenix — G57 Sports Grill & Venue (Glendale)
Atlanta — Fado Irish Pub, Buckhead
Philadelphia — Tir Na Nog Irish Bar & Grill
Miami — American Social
Dallas — Bombshells
Seattle — The George & Dragon Pub
San Diego — Barbeer (Chula Vista)
San Antonio — Pour Zone
El Paso — Shifty’s Dive
Columbus — Fado Irish Pub
Washington, D.C. — Exiles Bar
Fort Worth — Twin Peaks Restaurant
Austin — B.D. Riley’s Irish Pub
Tampa — Macdintons Irish Pub
San Jose — Rookies Sports Lodge Downtown
Denver — The British Bulldog
Orlando — Tom’s Watch Bar
Nashville — Fleet Street Pub

Founded in London in 2012, FANZO is the world’s most used sports bar finder, helping 7.5 million sports fans watch live sport on TV in 9 different territories across Europe, Australasia and now America annually.

“This World Cup has been a roaring success so far with pubs, bars and restaurants being the place where so many incredible experiences have been shared and turned into memories that will last forever. Recognising those venues that have true hubs of fan community in their city is a real honour, said Leo MacLehose, CEO and co-founder of FANZO.

“For over a decade, our market-leading tech has helped sports fans in Europe find the very best bars near them showing their game on TV. Combining that cultural authority with the technology to connect every fan looking to watch games socially to a great nearby venue is something we’re hugely proud of. Since launching in North America earlier this year, it’s hugely exciting to be demonstrating that the undervalued out-of-home audience can be reached, served and measured at scale, it changes the conversation for every rights holder and brand thinking about where their next sponsorship dollar lands.”

FIFA Museum Presented by Hyundai Enhances World Cup Experience in New York

by Wynne Kenna/Special to The Daily Payoff

NEW YORK – The FIFA Museum Presented by Hyundai has welcomed visitors to Rockefeller Center this summer, attracting soccer fans from all over to create a community through conversations, World Cup artifact viewing, and shared experiences. 

The pop-up event, “Legacies of Champions,” is a free exhibition open from June 11 through July 19 located at 50 Rockefeller Plaza. The event includes but is not limited to items associated with soccer stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi, and Pelé, the FIFA World Cup original trophy, and jerseys lining the wall representing the 48 countries playing in the tournament. 

This event is a place to converse with attendees and see the sport and culture from different perspectives. 

Metropolitan Oval Academy and Youth Development

Athletes who are part of the Metropolitan Oval Academy, a soccer talent development organization established in 1925, shared their thoughts on what this event means to them. One pinpointed on the fact that having young players in the World Cup is a source of inspiration along with a dream that he one day wants to reach. The young athletes shared excitement over witnessing evidence of those who have fulfilled their dream was palpable. Being immersed in a World Cup environment further inspired them to continue pursuing their own dreams. 

This event supports the mission of the academy, developing youth players both on and off the field, by connecting their training to the sport’s highest level. 

Effects of Prices  

One fan discussed the reality of high ticket prices for the World Cup in America, which has resulted in limited access to attending matches. Many fans would like to attend but are unable to afford tickets. 

Historically, World Cup matches have been priced in a range that is accessible to most fans. As the World Cup landed in North America this year, ticket prices escalated to a level that has made attending matches almost impossible to many fans. The downside is that many committed fans are unable to support their team inside the arena. 

Impact of the Event

Attendees also spoke about what it meant to New York to host this event. Several saw it as a strong moment for the city because it allowed the city’s resident population to display its diversity and cohesion, and said that the museum offered a space for fans to share passion and love for soccer. 

When asked how the museum experience impacted fans, many attendees pointed to a feeling of unity that overcame differences in language and national background. One fan who supported Ghana, expressed their thoughts about France winning the tournament. Despite mixed loyalties, many attendees agreed that the love for soccer was strongly felt throughout the event and shown within each interaction. 

The Real Purpose

The museum succeeds in showcasing not only memorabilia and historical keepsakes, but also provides the opportunity for meaningful conversations and connections with other fans, both existing and new. It is a common cross-cultural language; some of our most meaningful conversations were with people from parts of the world where English is not the primary language. We connected over a shared love of sport and were able to communicate by referencing jerseys and flags through smiles, laughs, and hand gestures. 

American Association To Induct Three To Hall Of Fame

The American Association of Professional Baseball will welcome three new members to the league Hall of Fame on Tuesday, July 14 at a dinner banquet held in conjunction with the 2026 American Association All-Star Game in Lincoln, NE.

The three newest members of the American Association Hall of Fame, as selected by a vote of league clubs, are Lincoln Saltdogs owner Jim Abel, Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks manager and former RedHawks and Major League catcher Chris Coste, and longtime American Association standout Nate Samson, who spent eight seasons with the Sioux City Explorers and also played for the Winnipeg Goldeyes, St. Paul Saints, and Lincoln Saltdogs.

“We are proud to induct three of the finest individuals ever to be part of the American Association,” said American Association Commissioner Joshua Schaub. “This class, like the ones before it, reflects the very fabric of our league and has helped shape it into what it is today. Without their vision, leadership, and excellence, we would not be where we are now.”

Abel leads this year’s group of inductees as the original and current owner of the Lincoln Saltdogs. Abel’s vision created a partnership between NEBCO, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and the City of Lincoln that led to the development of Haymarket Park and the establishment of the Saltdogs organization beginning with the 2001 season. Abel is the Chairman & CEO of NEBCO, Inc., whose businesses span the state of Nebraska with interests in heavy construction and the manufacture of concrete building products as well as real estate development and recreation.

Coste went from an overlooked Division III baseball player to a Major League talent, lighting the path for many others to follow. The Fargo native hit .323 over four seasons with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks, earning post-season all-star honors as a catcher three times and helping to lead the squad to the 1998 league championship. Coste reached Major League Baseball after 12 years in the minors in 2006 and won a World Series with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008. As a manager, he led Fargo-Moorhead to the AAPB title and earned Manager of the Year honors in 2022 and guided the RedHawks to the 2023 Baseball Champions League title. He also authored the book “The 33-Year Old Rookie” about his journey to Major League Baseball.

Samson was a stalwart in the American Association for a decade. Second in AAPB history with 815 hits, Samson played 10 seasons with Winnipeg (2013), Sioux City (2014, 2016-19, 2021-22), St. Paul (2020) and Lincoln (2022-23). A three-time postseason all-star at shortstop, he led the league with a .340 average in 2018, while his 141 hits that season were a Sioux City club record. Samson’s 318 RBI over seven seasons with the Explorers are also a Sioux City AAPB career record, while his 329 runs scored, 509 games played, 634 hits and 107 doubles are second in Explorers AAPB history. A durable player, he appeared in 98 or more of his club’s 100 games in four different seasons.

The 2026 Hall of Fame Banquet presented by Sampson Construction and Crete Carrier will be held on Tuesday, July 14 at Lincoln Station Great Hall in Lincoln, NE.

MLB Network to Broadcast AAPB All-Star Game Live For First Time on July 15 From Lincoln, Neb.

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) today officially announced that its 2026 All-Star Game will be carried live on MLB Network for the first time on Wednesday, July 15th.  The game will be held at Haymarket Park, the home of the Lincoln Saltdogs in Lincoln, Nebraska, at 830 PM EDT, marking the first time MLB Network has aired an All-Star Game of a Major League Baseball Partner League.

‘It is a pleasure to be able to have MLB Network come on board to carry our All-Star Game, presented by Carbliss,  from one of the most highly rated stadiums in America in Haymarket Park as we showcase the best in affiliated baseball to an even larger audience,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “Our focus has been to continue to refine the quality of our storytelling on all platforms and this new agreement, the first of its kind, is a testament to the value we continue to create. Our athletes and coaches deserve this opportunity, and we are proud to be able to bring it to fruition through an ever-growing network of broadcast partners. Thanks to the entire team at MLB Network for helping us continue to expand our window.”  

“We’re excited to elevate the profile of the AAPB and carry its All-Star Game live for the first time,” said Marc Caiafa, MLB Network’s SVP of Production. “We’re always looking for new content opportunities immediately following MLB’s Midsummer Classic, so this is a perfect collaboration and time on the calendar. It’ll be a fun night featuring the AAPB’s best.”

The addition of MLB Network for the All-Star Game follows a record number of broadcast partnerships that launched at the start of the 2026 season. They include: NBC Regional Sports Networks, Marquee Sports Network, NESN, Sportsnet Pittsburgh, Silver State Sports Network and the Unbeaten Sports App. As well as RYZ, Bally’s Corporation, NLSE, FTF Sports (For the Fans), and SLVR Sports and Entertainment. The expanded distribution is projected to drive viewership growth from 10 million in 2025 to over 30 million in 2026. The 2026 distribution slate also represents the largest footprint for distribution in league history.

Atlanta, Baltimore, Miami, D.C. Advance in Tracy McGrady’s ‘OBL: Standing 6’ 1v1 Hoops

Teams of 1v1 hoopsters representing Atlanta, Baltimore, Miami, and Washington, D.C. advanced at “OBL: Standing 6,” the second round of three Championship events for Tracy McGrady’s Ones Basketball League (OBL), held Friday at Oak Ridge High School. The teams of four 1v1 standouts battled it out in front of an enthusiastic crowd and nationwide audience on Fubu Sports Network and YouTube.

Washington, D.C. seeded first via tiebreaker with 24 points, followed by Baltimore with 24, Atlanta with 23, and Miami (20) to qualify for the Finals on July 1. New York (17 points) and Chicago (10) were eliminated with fifth and sixth place finishes, respectively.

“And then there were four,” said McGrady. “You could feel the intensity in every match as every guy wanted to be the one to push his team to the top.”

“For the Throne,” the July 1 finals, will also be held at Oak Ridge High School in Orlando. Full details available at www.oblhoops.com. 

OBL: Battle of the Cities

June 12, 2026


Standings:

Washington, D.C., 24 points*

Baltimore, 24*

Atlanta, 23*

Miami, 20*

New York, 17

Chicago, 10

*advanced to next round 

Game Results:

Game 1 – Tevin Curtis (Baltimore) d. Brannon Hopkins (Atlanta), 8-1

Game 2 – Joey Martinez (Miami) d. Mitchell Anderson (Chicago)7-1

Game 3 – Zeke Hearst (DC) d. Hegel Augustin (N.Y.), 7-3

Game 4 – Brandon Daughtry (Chicago) d. Terry Hosley (Baltimore), 7-3

Game 5 – Kevin “Uncle Skoob” Kuteyi (D.C.) d. Owen Browne (Miami), 4-3

Game 6 – Paul Parks (Atlanta) d. Jerry Mordi (N.Y.), 8-3

Game 7 – Zae Moore (D.C.) d. Yoshi Craig (Chicago), 7-2

Game 8 – DJ Waters (Atlanta) d. Dajour Joseph (Miami), 7-3

Game 9 – Greg Ash Jr. (Baltimore) d. Jawaun Daniels (N.Y.), 8-5

Game 10 – Malik Dunbar (Atlanta) d. Mario Smith (Chicago), 7-0

Game 11 – Byrd Daniel III (Miami) d. Isaiah “Leaky Roof” Brown (N.Y.), 7-6

Game 12 – Robert Fomby (Baltimore) d. AB Camara (D.C.), 7-6

Founded by Basketball Hall of Famer McGrady, the OBL is a 1v1 basketball competition drawing players from cities nationwide. During the Summer 2026 multi-week season, eight initial cities will field teams featuring hoopers who embody the heart and essence of their respective towns, bringing a unique and dynamic aspect to their representation. Cities battle for pride and prize, each sending out one player at a time in one-on-one matchups for thrilling, quick games that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The production will feature intense gameplay, as well as a deeper look into player backgrounds and real individual stories highlighting their talent and authenticity.

“OBL: Battle of The Cities” takes an expanded version of the original OBL, with elite athletes bringing their own vision, culture and prestige from the cities where they grew up, played, or call home. Each city-based team has a four-man roster, comprised of players who best reflect the tradition, values and basketball culture of that city, hand-selected by the teams’ celebrity Owners and GMs.

The “Battle of The Cities” team Owners and GMs include:

    • Team Atlanta: Quenton Brown, brother of Jaylen, star of the Boston Celtics

    • Team Baltimore: Muggsy Bogues, 14-year NBA veteran

    • Team Chicago: Larenz Tate, actor, film producer, basketball aficionado 

    • Team Miami: Tim Hardaway Sr., five-time NBA All-Star

    • Team New York: Jadakiss, recording star and basketball insider 

    • Team Washington, D.C.: Quinn Cook, two-time NBA champion

TBL Team Boxing League Announces Broadcast Partnership with NESN and NESN Nation

TBL Team Boxing League (“TBL”) today announced a new broadcast partnership with NESN and NESN Nation that will bring TBL action to sports fans throughout New England and beyond for the remainder of the 2026 season. Beginning with the Philly Smoke vs Boston Butchers this Saturday night LIVE from the Roadrunner in Boston, select fights will air on NESN-branded networks.

The partnership represents another major milestone in TBL’s continued expansion and commitment to growing the sport of team boxing. As the home of some of the region’s most passionate sports fans, NESN and NESN Nation provide an ideal platform to showcase TBL’s innovative team-based format, elite athletes, and fast-paced competition to both dedicated boxing enthusiasts and new audiences.

As Team Boxing League continues to build momentum nationwide, the addition of NESN and NESN Nation further strengthens the league’s media presence and supports its mission to deliver compelling combat sports entertainment to fans across the country. The contract was negotiated by Vinny DiMarco of TBL Team Boxing League.

“We are thrilled to partner with NESN and NESN Nation and bring Team Boxing League to one of the most passionate sports markets in America,” said Kevin Cassidy, CEO of TBL Team Boxing League. “NESN has a long-standing reputation for delivering premium sports programming, and this partnership provides a tremendous opportunity to introduce more fans to our unique team-based format while showcasing the incredible talent and competitive spirit of our athletes.”

To learn more about TBL Team Boxing League, visit www.teamboxingleague.com for schedules, tickets, and team info. Fans can also download the TBL app from the App Store for additional information.

DockHounds Go For History, Milkmen’s Doersching Makes It: Ten Things to Know in the AAPB This Week

One league record fell and another is on the precipice of being matched and passed, part of an exciting week on and off the field in the American Association of Professional Baseball (@AA_Baseball). All games, including Thursday’s doubleheader between Lake Country and Kane County, in which the DockHounds will try to extend their winning streak to match the league record of 15 and pass it with a 16th triumph, are as always available free for live viewing on AABaseball.tv.

Here are 10 (or so) Things to Know about the AAPB this week:

  • While the DockHounds were extending their skein to 14 (one plunge shy of the mark set by the Pensacola Pelicans 16 years ago), Gary SouthShore first baseman Griffin Doersching was writing himself into the individual record book by driving in 10 runs in a 13-1 win at Gary SouthShore on Tuesday.
  • The long-awaited debut of the Swedish Meatballs is upon us, as Kane County will adopt the juicy moniker for the first time in Saturday’s game against Gary SouthShore.
  • Not to be outdone, Fargo-Moorhead will play the first of five home games as the Woodchippers this summer on Friday vs. Winnipeg at Newman Outdoor Field.
  • Lefty Steffon Moore and infielder Julio Carreras became the latest AAPBers to have their contracts transferred to an MLB organization when both signed with Cincinnati on Friday and were assigned to Chattanooga (AA).
  • AAPB alumni on the field aren’t the only ones finding success after their careers in the league. Denning Gerig, the AAPB Broadcaster of the Year in 2021 with the Cleburne Railroaders, has been named director of broadcasting for Wichita State University Athletics.
  • Sioux Falls will host the first of two Kids Camps on Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Birdcage. The two-hour instructional camp includes a Canaries hat and ticket to that day’s game vs. Kansas City.
  • Lake Country’s Ryan Hernandez continued his torrid start to the season, blasting another home run on Tuesday as part of a three-hit day that raised his league-leading totals to 10 home runs, 32 RBI, 23 runs scored, with his .407 batting average, .852 slugging percentage and 1.357 OPS also pacing the circuit.
  • Media interest in AAPB remains strong. Some of the recent articles on teams include:
  • A few team promotions of note are:
    • Sioux Falls has set Friday as Crush Cancer Night, with promotions and activities including a partnership with the American Cancer Society and Gold Together initiative for a special evening dedicated to raising awareness and supporting kids and families impacted by cancer.
    • The Canaries will recognize hardworking members of the local union and labor community during Union Night on Saturday.
    • Kane County is partnering with the Northern Illinois Food Bank and encouraging people to bring food items to help feed families on Friday night.
    • It’ll be “Cracklin’ Rosemont” when the Chicago Dogs celebrate the music of Neil Diamond with a pre-game performance at 4:45 p.m. on Saturday.

Michelob ULTRA Enlists FANZO and Men In Blazers to Launch Out-of-Home Campaign for FIFA World Cup

Michelob ULTRA, the Official Beer Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, has announced a fully integrated campaign built around an often overlooked insight: for the overwhelming majority of fans, the out-of-home experience isn’t a consolation prize for not having a ticket – it is the FIFA World Cup™.

The campaign features two new approaches to serving every type of 21+ fan in attendance, both powered by FANZO’s technology.

For international visitors:

With 1.24m foreign fans expected to travel to the United States for the tournament and an average trip duration of 14-days, the majority of every visiting fan’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience will happen away from stadiums.

Advertising across airports, train stations and metro systems in host cities will carry QR codes, driving arriving fans directly to a Michelob ULTRA venue map, powered by FANZO. This will ensure visitors can find great local venues showing the tournament and share the experience surrounded by other passionate fans from the moment they set foot in the country.

For American soccer fans:

Michelob ULTRA has partnered with Men in Blazers Media Network – the podcast and media brand that has done more than any other outlet to grow soccer culture in the United States – to identify and celebrate the 250 best fan venues in the country.

Curated by Men In Blazers’ audience and powered by FANZO’s venue technology, the list is the definitive guide to where American soccer fans can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026™ at an official Michelob ULTRA partner venue – chosen based on atmosphere, community and experience rather than geography alone.

Roger Bennett, founder and CEO of Men In Blazers, said, “The U.S. soccer bar is a sacred place. These institutions are not just watering holes with the match on the big screen, they are true communities that have helped propel the rise of football across the nation. These are places where fans come together to be collectively transported to Old Trafford, Anfield, or Camp Nou for 90 minutes at a time – making lifetime memories together.

“Partnering with FANZO has allowed us to help local and traveling supporters find these venues that transcend with their pies, pints, songs, and atmosphere. We’re thrilled to spotlight them and the people on both sides of the bar who make them unique.”

Together, Michelob ULTRA’s campaign represents the first coordinated, technology-led strategy by a FIFA World Cup™ sponsor built specifically around the out-of-home fan as a primary audience – rather than an afterthought.

Leo MacLehose, CEO of FANZO said, “Men In Blazers have spent fifteen years identifying and celebrating the places where American soccer culture is made. Michelob ULTRA has built its FIFA World Cup 2026™ campaign around that key insight – even for fans with tickets, the out-of-home experience is where most will spend the majority of this tournament.

Combining that cultural authority with the technology to connect every arriving fan to a great nearby venue is something we’re hugely proud to be part of. By demonstrating that the undervalued out-of-home audience can be reached, served and measured at scale, it changes the conversation for every rights holder and brand thinking about where their next sponsorship dollar lands.”

https://www.fanzo.com/en-us/michelob-ultra-fifa-world-cup-bar-finder/10218?pillId=223

Spalk Announces Three Partnerships to Expand Global Sports Commentary, Highlights, Fan Engagement

Spalk, the leading cloud-based commentary and technology platform scaling multilingual commentary for teams, leagues and broadcast partners, today announced three new strategic alignments designed to accelerate the company’s global growth and enhance the multilingual viewing experience for sports fans worldwide. The partnerships with Ligue 1 (for English + Portuguese Highlights), Euroleague (for French, Serbian & Greek) and LNB (for French) continue to expand Spalk’s reach across live sports production, international distribution, and next-generation audience engagement and will now include real-time highlights packages as well as commentary.

“These partnerships represent another major step forward in our mission to make live sports more accessible, immersive, and scalable in any language for rights holders and broadcasters around the world,” said Ben Reynolds Co-founder and CEO at Spalk. “By literally listening to the challenges to expand audience share, we continue to create new opportunities for very passionate fan bases who want one thing…to experience the glory of their clubs in the language they speak. That’s our sweet spot, and we continue to refine and grow the model not just for the biggest of partners like the NFL and The Premier League, but for growing properties as well who have a need and share our vision for their audiences.”

The new trio of partnerships continue to expand Spalk’s scope of work, as they work with all three to deliver fast, localized post-match highlight packages at scale across the entire league in the languages where there was a need.

Through the agreements, Spalk will provide its proprietary cloud-based streaming and AI-powered production technology to support enhanced live match coverage, multilingual commentary capabilities, and deeper fan interaction across digital platforms as well as remote real-time commentary in languages that the properties were not able to offer before.

Additional partnerships in North America are expected in the coming weeks.

AAPB Off To Rousing Start: Ten Things to Know in the American Association This Week

The Milwaukee Milkmen (5-1) and Sioux Falls Canaries (5-1) are among the teams off to hot starts as the American Association of Professional Baseball (@AA_Baseball) put the first week of the 2026 regular season in the books. All games are as always available free for live viewing on AABaseball.tv.

Here are 10 (or so) Things to Know about the AAPB this week:

Next League Partners With Marvik To Expand A Engineering Capacity For Sports Clients

Next League, the AI Operating Partner for Sports, today announced a strategic partnership with Marvik, an AI engineering firm whose client roster includes multiple Fortune 500 companies including Procter & Gamble, Stanford University and UNICEF. This new strategic relationship will bolster Next League’s existing AI development team, bringing Marvik’s enterprise-grade AI capabilities to its growing client portfolio.

The pairing of Next League’s proven sports operator playbook, applied across the leading leagues, federations and teams that define the industry, with Marvik’s enterprise AI engineering experience having over 300 production AI projects shipped and its strategic partnerships with the world’s leading AI platforms including NVIDIA, Anthropic Oracle, Google, Microsoft and AWS, is a combination the global sports industry has not previously had access to.

The two firms have already collaborated on several client engagements leveraging Next League’s sports operator playbook and utilizing integrated delivery teams.The relationship is now expanding into new engagements across Next League’s global sports portfolio.

“We have spent the past eighteen months scaling Next League for this moment with senior AI leadership hires, an actively expanding onshore engineering bench and successful AI Strategy and Training engagements,” said Next League Chief AI & Innovation Officer Shripal Shah. Pairing our AI engineers and proven sports operating experience with Marvik gives our clients access to a combination of top-tier talent, AI platform certifications, and delivery economics that the legacy consulting landscape in sports cannot match. We are excited to have their support in complementing the AI-assisted development we already apply across the digital platforms we operate.”

“Next League brings the tech advisory, engineering and sports operating relationships, as well as a deep understanding of the industry ecosystem, and we add enterprise-grade execution depth in production AI systems in complex enterprise environments,” said Marvik CEO Paula Martinez. “Together, this partnership allows us to bring real AI capability to the global sports industry that requires both operator credibility and world-class engineering.”

Through its existing AI Strategy and Training practice, Next League has led enterprise AI enablement engagements with some of the industry’s fastest adopters to AI in the workplace including Gotham FC and the Breeders’ Cup, working alongside their executive teams to embed AI within their front office operations. Next League currently applies AI-assisted development across most of its engagements, accelerating delivery and reducing operational overhead for the global sports organizations it supports.

Today’s announcement comes during a period of rapid expansion for Next League’s AI and emerging technologies capabilities. Over the last 18 months, Next League has added Shripal Shah as Chief AI & Innovation Officer and Scott Gutterman as Chief Digital Officer. Vishal Vasan, formerly of Fox Sports, joins next week as its AI Product Manager with additional onshore job positions, including a VP of Engineering as well as roles in Data Science, being actively recruited.

Tracy McGrady’s Ones Basketball League Joins Fubo Sports Network Programming Lineup

Tracy McGrady’s Ones Basketball League and FuboTV Inc. (NYSE: FUBO) today announced an agreement to stream this summer’s “OBL: Battle of The Cities” on Fubo Sports Network, Fubo’s FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) channel. With Bobby Ciafardini and Josh Smith calling the action, the season will be held across three event days on May 15, June 12 and July 1, and will also include feature programming outside of the event windows. This season marks the first time the league is available to streaming TV audiences.

Founded by Basketball Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady, the OBL is a 1v1 basketball competition drawing players from cities nationwide. During the Summer 2026 multi-week season, eight initial cities will field teams featuring hoopers who embody the heart and essence of their respective towns, bringing a unique and dynamic aspect to their representation. Cities battle for pride and prize, each sending out one player at a time in one-on-one matchups for thrilling, quick games that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The production will feature intense gameplay, as well as a deeper look into player backgrounds and real individual stories highlighting their talent and authenticity.

Watch the “OBL: Battle of The Cities” season trailer here.

“OBL: Battle of The Cities” will take an expanded version of the original OBL, with elite athletes bringing their own vision, culture and prestige from the cities where they grew up, played, or call home. Each city-based team will have a four-man roster, comprised of players who best reflect the tradition, values and basketball culture of that city, hand-selected by the teams’ celebrity Owners and GMs.

The “Battle of The Cities” team Owners and GMs include:

  • Team Atlanta: Jaylen Brown, star of the Boston Celtics
  • Team Baltimore: Muggsy Bogues, 14-year NBA veteran
  • Team Chicago: Larenz Tate, actor, film producer, basketball aficionado
  • Team Miami: Tim Hardaway Sr., five-time NBA All-Star
  • Team New York: Jadakiss, recording star and basketball insider
  • Team Orlando: Vince Carter, 22-year NBA veteran
  • Team Raleigh: John Wall, five-time NBA All-Star
  • Team Washington, D.C.: Quinn Cook, two-time NBA champion

The full player roster can be found here.

“We are proud to have Fubo Sports Network as our first media partner for OBL, and look forward to working with them to tell the stories of these amazing athletes repping their cities and battling for the title,” said Tracy McGrady, founder, Ones Basketball League.

“Tracy’s Ones Basketball League represents the exact type of content we love – authentic stories where grit meets determination,” said Pamela Duckworth, head of Fubo Studios, Fubo. “Tracy is a basketball legend and together we’re giving these talented athletes a place to shine by bringing OBL to streaming audiences for the first time.”

About Ones Basketball League

OBL is the premier one-on-one basketball league in the world, celebrating the most skilled one-on-one players on the planet.

American Association of Professional Baseball Continues Record Broadcast Expansion Growth

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) continued its record expansion of live broadcast content this week, announcing that it will have a regular Game of The Week broadcast across a host of regional networks for the first time, through a new partnership with Unbeaten Sports Channel.

‘It is obvious that the interest in the stories of our athletes combined with the quality of play and the delivery of best-in-class live video has grown exponentially, especially into markets and on platforms that fully understand the ease and depth with which we approach partnerships,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “By this expansion to new platforms through Unbeaten, we are able to touch not just our core baseball fans, but consumers looking for good stories on whatever device they choose in markets we have not been seen in, and that benefits everyone, from our brand partners to our players and fans to the sport itself.”

Unbeaten’s co-founder, Matt Whytcross said, “Over the three seasons we’ve been in partnership, we’ve seen remarkable growth in demand for the AAPB league. This directly reflects the quality of the competition and the investment AAPB and their teams have made, season-on-season, in raising the bar in production and presentation of their games as a premium television product. Viewership of AAPB continues to grow on our channel, we’re excited to drive that growth once again in 2026.”

The syndication will include: NBC Regional Sports Networks, Marquee Sports Network, NESN, Sportsnet Pittsburgh, Silver State Sports Network and the Unbeaten Sports App. It also expands the league footprint from what was going to already be a record season through new and renewed broadcast agreements alongside Unbeaten’s linear channels carried on Samsung TV+, Prime Video, DAZN and over 30 other streaming and broadcast platforms, in the US and internationally through Europe, Asia and Australia.

The expanded distribution is projected to drive US viewership growth from 10 million in 2025 to over 20 million in 2026. The 2026 distribution slate also represents the largest footprint for distribution in league history.

The agreements strengthen the AAPB’s position as the premier MLB Partner League and underscore its role in growing the sport through strategic media distribution and international collaboration.

Super Patch Named Official Performance and Recovery Partner of Ones Basketball League (OBL)

Ones Basketball League (OBL), the innovative one-on-one basketball competition founded by NBA legend Tracy McGrady, today announced that The Super Patch Company, the cutting-edge wellness technology company known for its drug-free performance and recovery patches, will be the league’s Official Performance and Recovery Partner, starting with the tip off of “OBL: Battle of the Cities” this Friday night in Orlando, Florida.

The partnership will roll out throughout the 2026 OBL season, with Super Patch featured in broadcast integrations, digital content, and live event experiences.
“OBL is about elevating elite individual performance and giving athletes a platform to shine,” said Tracy McGrady, founder of Ones Basketball League. “”As a player, performance and recovery was the difference between getting another year out of my body and not getting it. I wish I’d had something like Super Patch in my prime. The fact that it’s drug-free, non-invasive, and built for the kind of pounding the body takes at this level, game changer. Bringing this to OBL means our athletes have access to tools not many have at any level.”

“Partnering with OBL allows us to bring our technology to one of the most exciting, athlete-driven leagues in basketball,” said Jay Dhaliwal, CEO of Super Patch. “We’re thrilled to support these competitors with tools that can enhance performance and well-being in a completely natural way.”

Through this collaboration, Super Patch will be integrating its patented neuro-haptic technology into the training and recovery regimens of OBL athletes. Super Patch’s non-invasive technology uses specific tactile patterns that stimulate the skin to improve balance, focus, energy, and recovery—all without drugs or supplements. By aligning with OBL, Super Patch continues to expand its presence in elite sports, supporting athletes who push the boundaries of personal achievement.

“OBL: Battle of the Cities” will take an expanded version of the original OBL, with elite one-on-one athletes bringing their own vision, culture and prestige tied to the city from where they grew up, played and/or call home. Each city-based team will have a four man roster, comprised of players who best reflect the tradition, values and basketball culture of the city the 1 v 1 team represents, hand selected by the Owners/GMs.

The “Battle of the Cities” owner/GM’s who selected the teams are:
Team Orlando- Vince Carter, Team Washington, DC – Quinn Cook, two-time NBA Champion, Team Miami – Tim Hardaway Sr., five-time NBA All-Star, Team New York – Jadakiss, recording star and basketball insider, Team Chicago – Larenz Tate, actor, film producer, basketball aficionado, Team Raleigh – John Wall, five-time NBA All-Star, Team Atlanta – Jaylen Brown, star of the Boston Celtics, and Team Baltimore – Muggsy Bogues, 14 year NBA veteran.

The full player rosters can be seen at https://oblhoops.com/elementor-page-458/.

OBL is hosting a multi-week season where eight initial cities will field teams featuring hoopers who fit the criteria of embodying the heart and essence of their respective cities, bringing a unique and dynamic aspect to their representation. Cities battle for pride and prize, each sending out one player at a time in 1-on-1 matchups. Thrilling, quick games that keep audiences on the edge of their seat. The production will feature intense game-play, as well as a deeper look into player backgrounds and real individual stories centering on highlighting players’ talent and authenticity.

For Soccer and Gemini XIII Partner to Launch ‘Orange Slices’ Vodcast Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

For Soccer, the preeminent soccer media and experiences company, and Gemini XIII, the premium podcast and vodcast entertainment network, today announced the launch of “Orange Slices,” a bold new soccer media vodcast and event vertical rooted in the shared story of the American game. Designed as a 360-degree content and fan engagement hub, Orange Slices will span premium long-form and short-form content, social storytelling, custom features, and a marquee fan event—all leading into and surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

The twice-weekly flagship podcast will be hosted by former U.S. Men’s National Team Player, Major League Soccer All-Star and Apple TV analyst Heath Pearce, with appearances from current and former players across generations of the game, including active USMNT and Toulouse FC center back Mark McKenzie. Bridging past, present, and future voices of the sport, the show blends seasoned perspective with real-time insight from inside the game—offering fans a rare window into the evolving identity of soccer in the United States and beyond.

In the lead-up to the World Cup, Orange Slices will deliver match previews and recaps, tactical breakdowns, player profiles, and cultural storytelling from host cities across North America. At its core, the show is a cross-generational celebration of soccer—from the muddy fields across America to the global stage—featuring voices from across eras of the game. Episodes will spotlight guests spanning past, present, and emerging stars, sharing stories, insights, and perspectives that shape the broader American soccer narrative. The name “Orange Slices” nods to the universal halftime ritual of youth soccer, grounding the global spectacle of the sport in its community roots and shared joy.

“Orange Slices is about connecting generations of U.S. Soccer—from the players who built it, to the ones living it now, to those who will carry it forward,” said Heath Pearce, host of Orange Slices and President of For Soccer. “This show is a celebration of our shared soccer story, told from the inside—through the voices, experiences, and moments that have shaped the American game, from youth fields to the World Cup stage.”

The launch also marks a major branded activation within Gemini XIII’s expanding Constellation portfolio, a recently released product that brings together premium talent, IP, and brand partners to create scalable, multi-format franchises.

“With the World Cup coming to North America, there’s an unprecedented opportunity to capture the energy of the moment. This is exactly what Constellation was built to do—bring together world-class talent, cultural moments, and brand partners to create something bigger than a show,” said Charles Steinhauer, Gemini XIII Media.

Orange Slices will be available on all major podcast streaming platforms including YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

FANZO, The Tech Solution To Sports’ Fragmentation Problem, Officially Launches In North America

FANZO, the tech platform that links brands, rights holders and broadcasters with fans who aren’t watching games in arenas and stadia, today announced that it will officially launch with partners in North America.

Rolling out in time to support the millions of fans following the FIFA World Cup in North America, it follows successful proof of concept executions in the UK, Europe and Australasia, backed by $30 million investment in their tech product.

Solving the headache of sports rights fragmentation and audience measurement in out-of-home premises, their platform enables digital activation with fans at a national scale, wherever they are watching sports socially.

Trusted by 47,000 partner venues worldwide and used by six million sports fans last year outside North America, FANZO counts properties ranging from TNT Sports to World Rugby and Diageo as partners.

“Until now, reliably engaging the massive out-of-home audience has been impossible and has proved a hindrance to the commercial growth of sports as rights continue to fragment across different channels and platforms. FANZO has worked with global partners to solve this critical issue – simplifying broadcast for venues and helping fans watch games socially – opening up new possibilities for commercial growth in North America”, said FANZO co-founder Leo MacLehose.

“Our mission is simple. We believe that sports experienced alone is meaningless. So we’ve built a digital platform that brings fans together to create unforgettable sporting memories in the world’s best physical locations.

“Once there, our tech enables brands, rightsholders and broadcasters to elevate the experience of watching sports in the most authentic local community spaces – restaurants and bars”.

“Maximising the profitability our commercial subscribers see from sport is central to what we do. But we recognise the challenges that operators face when managing every aspect of their venues – not least pouring pints and delivering great hospitality experiences to guests”, said Alasdair Collis, Vice President, TNT Sports Business.

“Since partnering with FANZO to create a new suite of automated digital marketing tools, we’re proud to offer TNT Sports Social venues compelling ways to grow their visibility online, drive loyalty and incremental footfall for live sports without adding to their daily to-do list.”

How FANZO Problem Solves For Every Side Of The Sports Market

Fans use FANZO to find great out-of-home venues nearby that are definitely showing their game on TV. In a sports market so convoluted that senators are calling in antitrust reviews, FANZO’s market-leading tech solves a major pain point for fans who just want to watch their team.

Commercial venues use FANZO’s B2B SaaS toolkit to market live sports online, generate new business from fans looking to watch sports socially nearby, whilst saving hours per week on digital promotion.

From quickly reviewing and updating schedules across multiple broadcasters to automating promotion with bespoke sports assets across social media.

Broadcasters include FANZO as part of their commercial package to venues to win new business, promising increased footfall and best-in-class marketing automation.

These tools reduce subscription churn by ensuring venues make the most of their sports content, increasing revenue per customer by upselling additional features and premium listings, whilst leveraging unique fixture data and insights to ensure long-term success over local rivals.

Brands use FANZO to impact behaviour throughout the out-of-home sports fan journey. Multiple digital touchpoints build awareness and consideration by ensuring fans choose to watch games in venues where certain products are sold.

From there, digital gamification rewards fans with real-world offers and prizes they can claim in-venue via FANZO’s mobile vouchering, helping brands sample new products, understand rate of sale and measure the impact of longer-term community-building efforts.

Finally, Rights Holders use this infrastructure to drive greater value for existing partners or sell new sponsorship opportunities through increased inventory.

Shoe Palace, Harlem Globetrotters Launch New Centennial Collection

The world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ and footwear retailer, Shoe Palace announced today an exclusive collaboration tied to the Harlem Globetrotters 100th anniversary celebration. The Shoe Palace x Harlem Globetrotters collection will be available in over 200 retail locations across the country as well as online, and will include T-shirts, hoodies, jackets, shorts, and pants for consumers of every age.

“The Harlem Globetrotters’ brand sits at the intersection of sports, entertainment, and cultural impact.  Our partnership with Shoe Palace is part of a larger strategy to expand our relevancy with new, and existing, audiences,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “Our strategic partnerships in the licensing and consumer products lane strengthens our ecosystem and increases touchpoints with consumers.”

“The Shoe Palace x Harlem Globetrotters collection celebrates the fun and pioneering spirit of one of the most enduring teams,” said Ralph Mersho, CEO, Shoe Palace. “It connects well to bring their story to fashion, and lifestyle in a really unique way.”

Shoe Palace pulled from 100 years of Harlem Globetrotters style, art and iconography to craft the unique collection. Some of the standout pieces include a fully embellished fleece set, a satin tricot button up, and a fully embellished varsity jacket. Harlem Globetrotters mesh shorts and vintage graphic tees will also be available.

The Harlem Globetrotters Centennial season launched in January and is continuing throughout the world, visiting over 200 domestic markets and another 125+ internationally. Fans can expect all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®, epic pre-game Magic Pass experiences, 100 Year limited edition merchandise and many other new innovations for the “Ambassadors of Basketball.” International markets such as France, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Mexico, and across Asia are just a few of the many locations the Harlem Globetrotters will be touring in winter of 2026 and running through the remainder of the year.

Muggsy Bogues, Jaylen Brown Added as Tracy McGrady’s Ones Basketball League GM/Team Owners

OBL (Ones Basketball League) the re-envisioning of its premier 1 v 1 basketball league founded by basketball Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Tracy McGrady, today announced that their final two GM/owner slots announced have been filled, with NBA Legend Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues taking the team of Baltimore talent and the Boston Celtics five time All-Star Jaylen Brown taking over the Atlanta team. Brown becomes the first active NBA player to own and manage an OBL franchise.

‘Having Muggsy and Jaylen join our ownership and GM group only further raises the level of competition and anticipation for “Battle of the Cities,” McGrady said. “Like in our teams, these accomplished athletes have a particular understanding and respect for basketball in the place where they grew up, and as we have seen from our tryouts that started this week in New York, the amount of interest and talent continues to rise from each market.”
‘One on one basketball is what I was raised on, and Baltimore is a city that understands and appreciates the skill level that is needed to success,” Bogues added. “We will rep the city well, and I am looking forward to helping Tracy advance his mission of making OBL a global must see, must participate and must engage with brand of basketball.”

“Battle of the Cities” will take an expanded version of the original OBL, with elite one-on-one athletes bringing their own vision, culture and prestige tied to the city from where they grew up, played and/or call home. Each city-based team will have a four man roster, comprised of players who best reflect the tradition, values and basketball culture of the city the 1 v 1 team represents, hand selected by the Owners/GMs. “OBL: Battle of the Cities” will take place over multiple weeks in Orlando, Florida, where McGrady was raised playing 1 v 1 himself, from May 15 to June 30, with teams competing for the swagger, pride, and identity of every city represented.

The naming of Bogues and Brown completes the elite list that will manage OBL Teams in “Battle of the Cities.”

They are:

  • Team Orlando- Vince Carter, Team Washington
  • DC – Quinn Cook, two-time NBA Champion
  • Team Miami – Tim Hardaway Sr., five-time NBA All-Star
  • Team New York – Jadakiss, recording star and basketball insider
  • Team Chicago – Larenz Tate, actor, film producer, basketball aficionado
  • Team Raleigh – John Wall, five-time NBA All-Star
  • Team Atlanta – Jaylen Brown, star of the Boston Celtics
  • Team Baltimore – Muggsy Bogues, 14 year NBA veteran

OBL will host a multi-week season where eight initial cities will field teams featuring hoopers who fit the criteria of embodying the heart and essence of their respective cities, bringing a unique and dynamic aspect to their representation. Cities battle for pride and prize, each sending out one player at a time in 1-on-1 matchups. Thrilling, quick games that keep audiences on the edge of their seat. The production will feature intense game-play, as well as a deeper look into player backgrounds and real individual stories centering on highlighting players’ talent and authenticity.

Additional announcements on rosters, media and other elements will continue to be rolled out in the coming weeks.

Finol’s Two-Run Homer Gives Kane County Cougars 2026 Baseball Champions League Title Sunday

Claudio Finol’s two run home run to deep center field keyed a six run sixth inning as the Kane County Cougars etched their names in the baseball history books, defeating The Mexican League Champions Diablos Rojos del México 7-3 in the Finals of the 2026 Baseball Champions League at Alfredo Harp Stadium.

“The players showed up every day here. They were not intimidated playing the Diablos in their home park with a raucous crowd,” said Kane County Manager George Tsamis. “We walk away champions and we couldn’t be more proud to bring this Baseball Champions League title back to Kane County and the American Association.”

The Cougars grabbed an early 1-0 first inning lead on a Dillon Thomas home run, but Mexico City tied the game at 1-1 when Bryan Antonio Roque Gonazlez went deep against KC’s Konnor Ash. That set the stage for Kane County’s six run outburst in the bottom of the sixth, which began with a Josh Allen leadoff double, a Thomas RBI single, a run scoring single by Josh Rehwaldt, and then after two outs, the Finol dinger that broke the game open.

Ash allowed a run on just five hits in 4 2/3 innings and got great support from five relievers, with Jake Gozzo closing the game with a 1-2-3 ninth.

The Cougars advanced to the championship in thrilling fashion Saturday, riding Jabari Henry’s three run eighth inning homer to a 9-7 victory over Los Dantos de Managua of Nicaragua on Saturday.

Kane County went 6-0 in the series, 4-0 in round robin play before sweeping the weekend, becoming the first American Association Club to run the table in the BCS.

“I could not be prouder of what Kane County accomplished here in Mexico this week,” said American Association Commissioner Josh Schaub. “It shows not just the quality of play we have and the high level coaching and the dedication of ownership, but it shows the commitment our league has to this growing event, and sets the table for what should be a thrilling season starting in May.”

The 2026 AAPB season begins on May 14 with Fargo-Moorhead visiting Cleburne.

AAPB Expands Broadcast Partnerships with RYZ, Bally Sports Live, NLSE, FTF Sports, SLVR

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) today announced new and renewed broadcast agreements with RYZ, Bally’s Corporation, NLSE, FTF Sports (For the Fans), and SLVR Sports and Entertainment, expanding the league’s national and international media footprint across digital and linear platforms.

Under the terms of the agreements, RYZ, NLSE, FTF Sports, and SLVR will carry a slate of AAPB regular season and postseason games, along with coverage of the Baseball Champions League (BCL). Bally’s Corporation will exclusively feature Baseball Champions League broadcasts on their Bally Sports Live apps (iPhone, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV), ballysports.com

The deal with RYZ represents a renewal of an existing partnership, continuing the strong collaboration between the league and the innovative sports media platform. RYZ viewers will continue to enjoy high-quality game coverage, digital exclusives, and behind-the-scenes AAPB content throughout the 2026 season.

“These partnerships reflect the increasing demand for AAPB baseball and our commitment to bringing fans closer to the game,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “By working with RYZ, Bally’s Corporation, NLSE, FTF Sports, and SLVR, in addition to our already existing partners including Gray Media and Unbeaten, we’re ensuring broader access to our games across more screens and more markets than ever before.” The expanded distribution is projected to drive viewership growth from 10 million in 2025 to 18 million in 2026. The 2026 distribution slate also represents the largest footprint for distribution in league history.

The agreements strengthen the AAPB’s position as the premier MLB Partner League and underscore its role in growing the sport through strategic media distribution and international collaboration.

Broadcast schedules and platform-specific details will be announced closer to Opening Day.