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WWE & Fanatics Betting and Gaming to Produce WWE-Themed Online Casino Games in U.S.

WWE, part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO), and Fanatics Betting and Gaming, a subsidiary of Fanatics, a global digital sports platform,   announced an exclusive multi-year licensing agreement for Fanatics Betting and Gaming to produce and distribute WWE-themed online casino games in the United States. 

Under the terms of this agreement, Fanatics Betting and Gaming will have a license to produce WWE-themed online casino games exclusively for Fanatics Casino, which is available on iOS, Android and web in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The officially licensed WWE online casino games will launch at the end of July in time for SummerSlam, which takes place across two nights on Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. 

“We are excited to expand our relationship with WWE to now include an exclusive portfolio of WWE-themed online casino games,” said Ari Borod, Chief Business Officer at Fanatics Betting and Gaming. “This is a natural extension of the WWE-Fanatics partnership which already includes global e-commerce, licensed merchandise, memorabilia, as well as producing and distributing a growing lineup of digital shows.”

Fanatics Game Studios has produced several of the most popular games on Fanatics Casino and will produce the WWE-themed online casino games in partnership with Boom Entertainment and Games Global™. The WWE-themed online casino games will be available at the end of July and will include:

  • WWE Blackjack (Boom Entertainment)
  • Raw Multiplier Melee (Boom Entertainment)
  • SmackDown Big Money Entrance! (Boom entertainment)
  • WWE Bonus Rumble Gold Blitz (Games Global)
  • WWE Clash of the Wilds (Games Global)

In August to celebrate SummerSlam in New Jersey, the WWE-branded takeover of Fanatics Casino will include exclusive sign up offers from Fanatics and the popular Spin to Win* game will get a very special WWE makeover.

Players are invited to dive into a world of thrills as Fanatics Casino brings the casino floor directly to a customer’s fingertips, whether on-the-go or in front of a computer. Players can explore a wide array of classic and modern casino games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, progressive jackpots and video poker. Fanatics Casino offers a comprehensive and engaging gaming experience with the following features:

  • Portfolio of Games: Fanatics Casino has curated a portfolio of games from its in-house development team, as well as the most popular game developers in the world including Light & Wonder, IGT PlayDigital™, Evolution, White Hat Studios, Wazdan and more.
  • Unlock the world of FanCash:  When you play with Fanatics Casino, players can earn FanCash on every spin, hand or roll – win or lose. Flip your FanCash into Casino Credit, Bonus Bets, exclusive apparel and so much more.**
  • Live Dealer Action: Engage with professional dealers in real-time through our live casino feature. Experience the excitement of live blackjack, roulette and baccarat, all from the comfort of your home.
  • Responsible Gaming: Fanatics Casino encourages users to play with a plan, using in-app tools like time, deposit and wager limits. Fanatics Casino has also partnered with Birches Health to provide additional support services intended for users with issues managing their play.

Olson’s Walk-Off Hit Gives N.L. All-Star Game Triumph In Strat-O-Matic Simulation

Atlanta first baseman Matt Olson laced a one-out single, plating Cincinnati’s Elly De La Cruz with the winning run in the bottom of the 10th inning in his hometown stadium, Truist Park, to lift the National League to a 3-2 triumph over the American League in a simulation of the All-Star Game via Strat-O-Matic (@strat-o-matic), the market leader in sports simulations.

In the simulation, the A.L. scored first on a third-inning leadoff home run by Tampa Bay third baseman Junior Caminero. The N.L. answered with two in the bottom of the fourth, with Los Angeles catcher Will Smith and Chicago outfielder Kyle Tucker plating runs with consecutive RBI hits. After the Junior Circuit tied it in the fifth on Caminero’s second solo homer of the game, the game remained even until Olson’s game-winner off Boston’s Aroldis Chapman brought in automatic runner De La Cruz.

San Diego reliever Jason Adam earned the win with a scoreless 10th inning, aided when Colorado catcher Hunter Goodman threw out automatic runner Jonathan Aranda of Tampa Bay attempting to steal third with one out. Adam then fanned Toronto catcher Alejandro Kirk to keep the game tied and set up Olson’s heroics in the bottom of the frame.

Olson and Arizona 2B Ketel Marte had two hits each to lead the N.L. Seattle closer Andrés Muñoz struck out the side in a scoreless eighth to pace the A.L. pitchers.

American…….. 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 – 2 8 0
National…….. 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 – 3 10 1
WP: Adam; LP: Chapman
HR: Caminero 2

Soft2Bet’s Brand ToonieBet Named An Official Sports Betting and Casino Partner of the Canadian Football League

Soft2Bet’s Brand ToonieBet Named An Official Sports Betting and Casino Partner of the Canadian Football League

Soft2Bet’s premier sportsbook and online casino brand ToonieBet becomes an Official Authorized Gaming Operator in Ontario and an Official Partner of the Historic Grey Cup

TORONTO, July 9, 2025 – ToonieBet, Soft2Bet’s premier sportsbook and online casino brand tailored for Canadian players, has been named both an Official Sports Betting Partner and an Official Online Casino Partner of the Canadian Football League (CFL).   

The multiyear partnership also establishes ToonieBet as an Official Partner of the CFL’s championship game, the Grey Cup. Fans from coast to coast to coast annually gather for Canada’s largest single-day sporting event to celebrate an incredible season, and to witness one team earn the right to hoist the iconic trophy. The 112th Grey Cup will be played at Princess Auto Stadium in Winnipeg on Sunday, November 16.

Fans in Ontario aged 19-and-over will be able to responsibly wager on CFL games through ToonieBet with access to in-game betting and futures. The collaboration will also explore exciting branded online casino experiences on the ToonieBet platform to entertain existing fans and engage new ones.

ToonieBet’s partnership with the CFL underscores Soft2Bet’s ongoing commitment to Canadian sports fans and a further investment in the Canadian sporting tradition, as the deal marks Soft2Bet’s second sports partnership in the country within the last three months, following ToonieBet’s designation as the Official Online Casino Partner of the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, which was recently expanded with a full sportsbook offering.

“This partnership is for the fans,” said Tyler Keenan, the CFL’s Chief Revenue Officer. “Together with ToonieBet, we will unlock exciting avenues of entertainment, delivering new products, responsible gaming options and unique activations, to better serve the future of fandom. In the stadium, at home or online, we’re doubling down on engagement and innovation like never before.”

“Partnering with the CFL will elevate our robust offerings in the Canadian market and allow us to continue building our passionate sports and online gaming community in Ontario,” said Steve Spindler, ToonieBet’s Canadian Country Manager. “Our team at ToonieBet is deeply committed to building a premium fan experience, while delivering exceptional customer hospitality and ensuring both responsible and safe game play.”

“We are proud to partner with the CFL and its local teams,” said Martin Collins, Chief Business Development Officer at Soft2Bet. “This partnership goes beyond visibility — it’s about building relevance and establishing a real connection with fans. Aligning with one of Canada’s most trusted leagues allows us to strengthen our bond with Ontarians and deliver a best-in-class sports betting and gaming experience through ToonieBet”.

Additionally, ToonieBet has been designated as an Official Authorized Gaming Operator of the CFL, allowing Soft2Bet to deliver best-in-class gaming experiences with official CFL data and statistics to sports fans and sportsbook users across Ontario through the ToonieBet platform.

ToonieBet will also serve as the presenting partner of CFL Fantasy, and the Gametracker in Ontario on CFL.ca and LCF.ca, in addition to being the CFL’s odds provider on the league’s digital scoreboard.

Dominic Scorcia Named Caldwell University Men’s Lacrosse Coach

Dominic Scorcia has been named Caldwell University Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach and Athletics Administrator, it was announced today by Mark A. Corino, Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics. Scorcia, who served as assistant coach at his alma mater, Mercy University, for two years and at Carey H.S. on Long Island last year, becomes the program’s fourth head coach.

Scorcia is one of Mercy’s most decorated players ever, ranking first on the school’s career goals (159) list and second in points (261). He holds the school marks for goals (nine) and points (14) in a game, and was named captain in 2022, when the Mavericks were the national NCAA Division II runners up. The four-time All-East Conference selection helped lead Mercy to three ECC titles, appearing in and starting all 69 Mavs games (58-11) over five seasons.

As a coach, Scorcia assisted in all aspects of the Mercy program which won back-to-back ECC Championships, earning NCAA Tournament berths in 2023 and 2024. This past year, he assisted at his alma mater Carey High School in Franklin Square, N.Y.

“I can’t wait to get started on this new chapter in my coaching career and my first head coaching position at Caldwell,” said Scorcia. “I look forward to working with the returning student-athletes and attracting others as we grow a program together.”

“We are excited to welcome Coach Scorcia to the Caldwell family,” said Corino. “We feel that the combination of his knowledge of the area lacrosse scene, demonstrated ability on the field and the sideline, and enthusiasm for the sport will make him a great fit here.”

Caldwell will begin its seventh season of men’s lacrosse competition in 2025-26.

Scorcia currently resides in Franklin Square, N.Y.

Harlem Globetrotters to Host First Ever Open Player Tryout in Advance of 2026 Centennial Season

Leaders in breaking barriers and making history, the world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ today formally announced they will be hosting their first-ever open tryouts to help select athletes for the organization’s Centennial season in 2026. In addition to recruitment efforts of elite talent being made through relationships with the global college and professional basketball community, the Globetrotters have created a portal where anyone can apply for a tryout spot. That portal, found HERE is open today for sign-up.

Official Harlem Globetrotters tryouts will take place in the early fall with the final team being assembled and announced in November. Exact dates and location will be announced later this summer. The Globetrotters have taken significant steps in the past few months to recruit and raise awareness around the basketball community, with representatives taking part in talent showcases like the Portsmouth Invitational and the NBA Pre-Draft Camp as well as adding former SIACC Commissioner Gregory Moore as a talent recruitment consultant.

The organization’s goal is to expand, and elevate, the talent in its ranks and to act as competitive offering for men and women hoopers around the globe for both 2026 and beyond. The Globetrotters continue to add a high-quality level of athlete, which has been reflected in recent years in the signing of former LSU captain Alexis Morris and this past year with the addition of 6-5 rookie forward Asanti “Cash” Price (Columbia, SC), who signed a contract with the NBA G League’s Texas Legends, the affiliate of the Dallas Mavericks. Price was one of six rookies signed to the Globetrotters this past November and had the option to return to the club when his G League time ended, which he did.

“We are creating one of the most unique, once in a lifetime opportunities for talented high-level athletes and entertainers, the ability to be part of the Centennial of the most iconic global sports and entertainment property. We wanted to make sure we were not limiting ourselves in our talent search,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “While the tryout will be open, and we welcome athletes from all walks of life to join us, this is a serious competition that will combine high-level athleticism, opportunities for fair compensation, player revenue opportunities via sales royalties, content opportunities via our distribution partners, community impact through our CSR efforts, and a rare opportunity to take advantage of all the creative assets we have built to literally expand one’s career beyond the game. The right athletes will have that special element of ‘showpersonship’ that the Globetrotters have been known for. It should make for a fun and exciting way to uncover our next group of stars.”

This past year Globetrotter athletes again set a new bar for excellence on and off the court, bringing their talents to 50 markets around the world and an additional 46 cities in North America. Athletes set 18 new Guinness World Records, the second-most in one season in their history.

The Globetrotters anticipate bringing in approximately 30 athletes to the tryout. It will be the first step of a months-long process in selecting the athletes for the Centennial team.

The Globetrotters legacy has seen athletes ranging from Wilt Chamberlain to Connie Hawkins to Oliver Miller to Lynette Woodward throughout its history, and the goal is to make sure that talent and legacy go hand in hand into this next stage of growth.

ShotTracker, FanThreeSixty Launch New Strategic Partnership

ShotTracker, the revolutionary AI-powered sports analytics platform transforming how teams capture and visualize performance data, today announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership with FanThreeSixty, the comprehensive fan engagement platform trusted by elite organizations nationwide. This powerful integration will embed ShotTracker real-time analytics and AI-driven visualizations directly into FanThreeSixty’s robust fan engagement platform, creating an unprecedented immersive experience for teams, broadcasters and fans alike.

The partnership, which began with the highly successful implementation of ShotTracker’s dynamic data graphics for Kansas basketball, will be available to all FanThreeSixty customers going forward. After a successful pilot with KU’s men’s and women’s basketball programs during the 2024 season, through the Kansas Jayhawks app, a comprehensive rollout is expected for the 2025/2026 season, allowing fans access to the same elite-level analytics used by coaches on the sidelines.

“This expanded partnership with FanThreeSixty represents a pivotal moment in sports technology integration,” said Davyeon Ross, Co-Founder and President of ShotTracker. This collaboration revolutionizes how fans experience and understand the game. The successful pilot with Kansas basketball demonstrated the tremendous appetite for this depth of insight and we’re thrilled about the potential to jointly market our collaborative capabilities and to scale this innovation across all sports and venues.”


“We believe the future of sports lies in making every moment more meaningful—for fans, for teams, and for our partners. By integrating ShotTracker’s real-time data and insights into our fan engagement portfolio, we’re not just enhancing the fan experience—we’re redefining it. This partnership unlocks a new era of storytelling where stats come to life, creating deeper connections and smarter engagement at every touchpoint.”  Dison Martin, Director of Product Strategy, FanThreeSixty.

The first implementation of the partnership made ShotTracker visuals available in the newly launched Kansas Jayhawks app and on new video boards installed inside Allen Fieldhouse. Early views incorporated shot charts created from ShotTracker data including shooting percentages and shot location of the full team and individuals, shown real-time with game specific data, which was native in the mobile app.

 “Our partnership with ShotTracker and FanThreeSixty has allowed us to amplify the fan experience, both in-venue and within the app through real-time enhanced stats and analytics for both the team and individual players. We are excited to expand offerings to our fans in the future to continue to grow the ability to take fans deeper into the game.” Drew Gaschler, Associate Athletics Director of Marketing and Fan Experience, Kansas Athletics.

This news follows ShotTracker’s continued growth in 2025. That includes enhanced work with the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships and one of the largest expansions in recent company history.  That expansion brings the number of ShotTracker partner schools to over fifty, with more coming later this year.

‘Roll Tide!’ Comes to the Big Screen – ‘Nothing But A Winner’ Film Debuts July 31

Required Reading & Source Media, in partnership with Fathom Entertainment, the leading specialty distributor of content to theatrical partners worldwide, today announced Nothing But A Winner, about the greatest college football program in the history of the sport – the University of Alabama Crimson Tide. The feature documentary, directed by Jimmy Jenkins and produced by David Jacobson, releases exclusively in theatres nationwide for one night only on July 31.

Alabama has dominated college football in the last century: 18 national championships, 30 Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championships, and 447 players drafted into the NFL. Well known for the greatest run in modern memory under legendary Coach Nick Saban, the origin story of this culture of winning was pioneered by Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.

“Coach Bryant would be the person I think is the greatest coach of all time. He won playing conventional football. He won running the wishbone. He won having a passing-type offense when he had those kinds of players,” said Saban. “But I think about the things he established from an intangible standpoint—discipline, toughness, people being responsible to do their job. I’ve always heard how his leadership helped his players be more successful at whatever they chose to do.”

Through first-hand accounts from barrier-breaking players spanning five decades, the film explores the culture of relentless commitment that turns raw recruits into national champions. From Bryant’s integration of Black players during the Civil Rights era to Saban’s modern-day streak of total dominance, Nothing But A Winner highlights how buying into Alabama’s process means you’re destined to be nothing but a winner.

Two legendary Alabama football families came together to tell the story of this legacy. Marlon Humphrey, an All-American defensive back under Saban and four-time Pro Bowler currently with the Baltimore Ravens, executive produced and financed the majority of the project, alongside his sister and co-producer Breona. Their father Bobby Humphrey, a former two-time First-Team All Pro in the NFL and All-American running back at Alabama, is an integral voice in the film. 

“For me, living out this legacy isn’t just about what I do on the field, it’s about who I am off it, too. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to represent something bigger than myself: the values, the work ethic, and the resilience that were passed down to me at Alabama and that I am now living in the NFL,” said Marlon Humphrey. “I feel a responsibility to turn around and challenge and support the next generation, which I am excited to do with this film.”

Known for his acting (“NCIS: Los Angeles”), Caleb Castille, who played defensive back under Saban at Alabama, also serves as a producer for Nothing But A Winner. Caleb Castille’s father Jeremiah, who played defensive back under Bryant and later served as team chaplain for more than two decades, is a key feature in the film. Together, the Castilles and the Humphreys sought to capture the multi-generational impact and powerful ties that the football program has created.

“This film is deeply personal for me,” said Caleb Castille. “My father, my two brothers, and I all wore that crimson jersey, and being able to help tell the story of Alabama football’s legacy—one that shaped my own family across generations—is an honor. Producing Nothing But A Winner was more than just another project; it’s a tribute to the program that helped shape us into the men we are today.”

The sweeping story of this college football powerhouse features narratives of the athletes who played under Bryant, Coach Gene Stallings and Saban and faced the challenges of their times, reflecting on the impact the coaches made on their players, their community, and the entire country. 

Nothing But A Winner features:

  • Jeremiah Castille, Cornerback 1979-1982,
  • Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Safety 2011-13,
  • Kelvin Croom, Defensive Back 1975-76,
  • Sylvester Croom, Center 1972-74,
  • Ricky Davis, Defensive Back 1975-75,
  • Bobby Humphrey, Running Back 1985-88,
  • Lou Ikner, Running Back 1976-78,
  • Wilbur Jackson, Running Back 1971-73,
  • Antonio Langham, Cornerback 1990-93,
  • Walter Lewis, Quarterback 1980-83,
  • Mike Locksley, Assistant Coach 2016-18,
  • CJ Mosley, Linebacker 2010-13,
  • Ozzie Newsome, Wide Receiver 1974-77,
  • George Pugh, Tight End 1972-75,
  • Gene Stallings, Head Coach 1990-96,
  • Nick Saban, Head Coach 2007-23,
  • Jalen Hurts, Quarterback 2016-18,
  • DeVonta Smith, Wide Receiver 2017-20,
  • Jaylen Waddle, Wide Receiver 2018-20,
  • Jonathan Allen, Defensive Tackle 2013-16,
  • Jerry Jeudy, Wide Receiver 2017-19,
  • Greg Byrne, Athletic Director 2017–present
  • and more.

Jimmy Jenkins directed the film with David Jacobson, Caleb Castille and R.J. Moeller producing. The film was written by Isaiah Smallman, Eric Wiener and Jenkins. Executive Producers are Marlon Humphrey, Brenda Robinson, Seth Carter, Steph Higgs, Darnell Lee and Will Ward. Breona Humphrey served as Co-Producer and Chris James Champeau served as Editor. The film was produced in association with BarFaye Productions, Walk-On Media, Jenkins Bros. Entertainment, and Adelaide Pictures, and releases in theatres for a one-night showing on July 31, 2025. 

Tickets for Nothing But A Winnerwill be available on June 20 at Fathom Entertainment and participating theatre box offices (theatre locations are subject to change). For more information, visit nothingbutawinner.com.

Sioux Falls Canaries’ Jabari Henry Breaks AAPB Home Run Record With 147th Blast Thursday

Sioux Falls Canaries designated hitter Jabari Henry (Orlando, Fla./Florida International Univ.) has long been one of the American Association’s (AAPB) most popular stars. Now he’s the league’s all-time home run king, too.

Last night at the Birdcage in Sioux Falls, Henry launched a 414-foot shot to left field in the third inning, the 147th round-tripper of his nine-year career in the league, eight of which have come with the Canaries. Henry, who hit 19 home runs in both 2023 and 2024 after blasting 29 in 2022, took another over the fence in the ninth inning last night for good measure. The 34-year-old now has seven HR and 13 RBI in 17 games to date in 2025, and has collected 223 career pro home runs including the minors and MLB Partner leagues.

“Jabari Henry is a fan favorite all over the American Association, and we couldn’t be more excited that he now has the home run record,” said Joshua Schaub, American Association commissioner. “He is such a tremendous representative of the league and how our players really connect with their communities.”

An 18th round draft pick of the Seattle Mariners in 2012, Henry reached AA with the Mariners and Los Angeles Angels.

The AAPB is in its 20th year of operation. Henry, with 148 home runs after the second of the night, is now 10 behind the single MLB Partner League record of 158 set by Glenn Murray (Atlantic League, 1999-2008).

Westchester Soccer Club Hosts Richmond Kickers FC at The Stadium at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon Sunday

Westchester SC returns to USL League One play this Sunday with their third of six home matches in May and June, taking on Richmond Kickers  at 4 pm at The Stadium at Memorial Field. The club is coming off a dramatic 1-1 draw vs. Forward Madison last Saturday.  Media are welcomed at any and all WSC home matches.

 J.C. Obregón (New York, NY) electrified the home crowd with a stunning long-range goal in the 17th minute,  launching a strike from  ~70 yards out, before Derek Gebhard converted a penalty  in the 4Oth minute, the only scores in a 1-1 draw against Forward Madison FC. The second half continued with the same pace and pressure, and in the 67th minute, Forward Madison was awarded a second penalty. This time, however, Westchester goalkeeper Andrew Hammersley, in only his second pro start, rose to the occasion, making a critical save to deny the go-ahead goal and preserve the 1-1 draw through the final whistle. It marked WSC’s first home point in USL League One play. 

Richmond, WSC Meet Again Following One of The USL League One Early Season Highlight Matches;   Richmond’s Josh Kirkland scored the final equalizer (and his second goal of the game) in the ninth minute of extra time on  April19th, snatching a frenetic late rush victory from WSC and sending both clubs home with a 4-4 draw for third place Richmond. The Erickland score came just two minutes after WSC’s scoring leader J.C. Obregón Jr. (New York, NY) found  the back of the net on a penalty kick after Bobby Pierre was fouled, to give Westchester their first lead of the match seven minutes into extra time in what was a back and forth affair for more than ninety minutes.  Richmond struck early, with  Darwin Espinal  beating keeper Dane Jacomen  just two minutes into the match before WSC counter on a Noah Powder (Edison, NJ) score just six minutes later.  Espinal’s second goal of the match in the 32nd minute gave Richmond the 2-1 lead at the break, before Samory Powder (Edison, NJ) again knotted the match at 2-2 in the 53rd minute. Richmond’s Kirkland’s tally in the 63rd minute again put Kickers back on top, but with less than seven minutes left in regulation Conor McGlynn (Middle Village, NY) countered off a pass from Noah Powder to knot the score at three, and set the stage for the drama in extra time. The stats belied the excitement the fans experienced on a beautiful night in Richmond, with each side taking 16 shots and WSC getting the slight edge on goal 8-7.

Putting Up The Numbers; Richmond and WSC enter Sunday’s match second-16 goals and third-15 goals, respectively in USL League One Play thus far this season.

Stopping the Slide: WSC enters Sunday looking to stop a seven match overall winless slide. They have not posted a match win since their victory over NY Pancyprian Freedoms 3-2 on April 2 in the US Open Cup, and have not won a USL League One match since their 3-1 win at Texoma FC on March 29. WSC has actually grabbed the lead in the first half of their last three matches, leading 1-0 at Spokane,   2-0 at home against Charlotte and 1-0 vs. Forward Madison.    

If it’s a WSC Match, JC is on the Board: Forward Juan Carlos Obregón, Jr. has been the scoring leader for WSC, not just in their USL matches but in their US Open Cup matches as well. Obregon’s seven overall goals easily tops the team in all games played. The 2024 USL League One All-League First Team forward scored his seventh  goal last  Saturday,  and he now has four   USL League One tallies one more than teammate Connor McGlynn.  Obregón leads the club in assists with two as well.

Hammer Time Arrives; Goalkeeper Andrew Hammersley (Garden City, NY) was inserted into the lineup by Head Coach Dave Carton prior to the May tenth match vs. Charlotte, and played well in his first pro match despite allowing three second half scores. The Sacred Heart University product followed that up with a solid performance again last Saturday, allowing the one score, but coming up with a game-saving second half stop of a penalty kick to keep the tight match tied. Hammersley has recorded ten saves in his first two matches, the best two match stretch for a keeper in WSC’s inaugural season.   He was selected to the USL League One Team of the Week for his efforts.

Homegrown Scorers: In USL play, New York area natives Obregón (New York, NY) McGlynn (Middle Village, NY) , Samory Powder and Noah Powder (Edison, NJ) have accounted for ten of the club’s 12 goals thus far, giving the back of the net a decided NY area edge so far.  WSC’s current roster features eight players who can call the greater New York area home. In addition, defender Kemar “Taxi” Lawrence has logged time in his career as a popular member of the New York Red Bulls. Defender Noah Powder and his brother Samory Powder have also logged time in the Red Bulls development system.

Brotherly Success, The Powder’s Pour it On: The Powder brothers, Samory and Noah (Edison, NJ), are just the fifth pair of brothers to suit up as teammates in a League One match, and the first pair of brothers to be named to the USL League One Team of the Week as teammates in the same week. Midfielder Noah Powder was named Player of the Week presented by Konami eFootball with three goal contributions in a 4-4 draw against the Richmond Kickers on April 19 . Noah Powder’s assist on Samory Powder’s goal in the 53rd minute marked the second time in league history a pair of brothers have connected for a joint goal participation (Arturo/David Rodriguez (NTX), 2019). Then we have Samory Powder, the first-year professional registered a beauty of a first professional goal off an assist from his older brother, Noah at Richmond, and followed that up with his second goal, the club’s only tally, at Spokane.

Obregón,  Powder Get Gold Cup Call; Twenty-three players from the USL Championship and League One were named on Monday to the preliminary rosters for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup.  Included among the group are WSC’S Juan Carlos Obregón, Jr., for Honduras and Noah Powder for Trinidad and Tobago. The final rosters for the tournament must be named by June 4 ahead of the competition’s opening game on Saturday, June 14 between Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Portland was the only other USL League One club with multiple players named.  

On The Team Side: WSC enters the weekend 4th in scoring in USL League One with  12 goals, tied for 4th  in conversion rate (1 8  %) and 5th in shots at 88.

WSC’s inaugural season partners in addition to Northwell Health and SCORE PT include; Leros Transportation Group – luxury transportation partner, Healthfirst – insurance partner, Manhattanville University – premier education partner, Pepsi Bottling Company of New York – beverage partner, RXR – luxury living/real estate partner,  MSG Networks – broadcast partner, Breezemont Day Camp – summer day camp partner, Seatgeek – ticketing partner, and Benjamin’s Steak House – steak house partner.

On The Air: All of WSC’s USL League One matchups will be seen locally on MSG Networks, with Sam Goldfarb calling the action for most home matches.

Up Next: WSC will host their second Jägermeister Cup match, this one against Hartford Athletic on May 31 at 4 pm, before returning to USL League One play on June 7 against One Knoxville SC in their first home regular season night match of the season.   

Fanatics Sportsbook Partners with New York Racing Team for Two NASCAR Cup Series Events

Today, New York Racing Team announced a partnership with Fanatics Sportsbook to become the primary sponsor of the team’s No. 44 Chevrolet, driven by star driver J.J. Yeley for two of the NASCAR Cup Series’ most prestigious races – the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway and the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway.

The Fanatics Sportsbook No. 44 Chevrolet will take to the track – first in Music City on Sunday, June 1 and next in The Valley on Sunday, November 2 – decked in the company’s signature Lava Red and Black paint scheme and adorned with the Fanatics Sportsbook logo on the hood and sides of the car. It’s only fitting that Fanatics Sportsbook will grace the car for the first time in Tennessee, as the state was the first to experience the sportsbook upon its launch in 2023. 

In celebration of this partnership, Fanatics Sportsbook will have exclusive new customer offers for the Nashville and Phoenix races, along with expanded NASCAR betting capabilities, such as race parlays, to finish on the podium, exacta and trifecta betting. Fanatics Sportsbook will also offer unique JJ Yeley specials and live betting markets on Raceday.  

According to Fanatics Sportsbook, Yeley is +800 to have a Top 10 Finish at Nashville Superspeedway and customers will also be able to place wagers on J.J. Yeley’s Starting Grid Position, Chevrolet-specific placement, first lap results, and much more. NASCAR fans can download the Fanatics Sportsbook app on iOS and Android and begin their Fanatics betting experience.   

“We are proud to partner with John Cohen and the New York Racing Team,” said Selena Kalvaria, CMO of Fanatics Betting and Gaming. “The partnership with New York Racing Team is an incredible branding opportunity and an inflection point for us as we continue to build the fastest growing sportsbook in America.* We are going to develop exclusive content for NASCAR fans and curate an elevated experience for our customers at each race that only a brand like Fanatics can offer. Our employees and customers can’t wait to cheer on the No. 44 Fanatics Sportsbook Chevrolet toward the checkered flag at Nashville Superspeedway and Phoenix Raceway.”  

Nashville Superspeedway is Middle Tennessee’s racing jewel. The 1.33-mile D-shaped track with 14 degrees of banking is the largest concrete-only track in NASCAR and the perfect track for a prime time race. The sponsorship will see Fanatics Sportsbook featured on Yeley’s No. 44 Chevrolet in the Cracker Barrel 400 on Sunday, June 1 at 7 PM ET, broadcast live on Prime Video. The No. 44 Fanatics Sportsbook car will return at the end of the season to compete at the NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, November 2, 2025, which will air live on NBC. For up to date news and information on the Fanatics Sportsbook No. 44 Chevrolet follow @FanaticsBook on X and @FanaticsSportsbook on Instagram. 

Rose, Jackson, Black Sox Take on Bonds, Other Outcasts in Strat-O-Matic Simulation

The recent reinstatement of Pete Rose, Shoeless Joe Jackson, the rest of the famed 1919 Chicago “Black Sox” and a few other long-deceased and long-forgotten players from more than a century ago made big news in baseball circles this month. Commentary continues on the Hall of Fame-worthiness of Rose, Jackson and perhaps a couple of the newly un-banned standouts.

Lurking too is the discussion about Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Jose Canseco, Alex Rodriguez and a few others whose career numbers would get them to Cooperstown easily but whose off-field activities, primarily connections with performance enhancing substances, have kept them out of the Hall and, in some cases, out of baseball.

Just how good were the newly reinstated players compared to the “shadow-banned” stars of more recent vintage? Strat-O-Matic (@strat-o-matic), the market leader in sports simulations, put it to the test with a contest between squads made up of the best players from those two groups. Taking the hill for the “Shadow Banned” stars was Clemens, facing Eddie Cicotte, famed for being among the ringleaders of the group throwing the 1919 World Series.

Dotted with multi-time All-Stars like Bonds, Canseco, Rodriguez, Robinson Cano, Mark McGwire and others, the modern team looked on paper like a more accomplished squad than Rose, Buck Weaver, Chick Gandil, Happy Felsch and the others. But in the Strat-O-Matic simulation, it was Cicotte who held that juggernaut team to six hits over seven innings, getting relief help from co-conspirator (and three-game loser in the ‘19 Series) Lefty Williams for a 4-2 Reinstated Team triumph.

Rodriguez led off the game with a solo home run, and Bonds hit one out in the fifth for a 2-0 lead. But Jackson drove in two runs with a sixth-inning double, and shortstop Swede Risberg brought in the go-ahead marker with a double in the seventh, followed by unheralded catcher Gene Paulette’s RBI single for the final margin.

The eight reinstated Black Sox make up a significant portion of that 1919 Chicago team that is one of the eight teams in the Strat-O-Matic Deadball Diamond Gems set releasing next month, with eight extensively researched and fully super-advanced squads from that era.

Shadow Banned… 1 0 0  0 1 0  0 0 0  –  2  7  0

Reinstated…… 0 0 0  0 0 2  2 0    –  4  5  1

WP: Cicotte; LP: Clemens; SV: Williams

HR: Rodriguez, Bonds

SBD World’s Strongest Man Announces 2025 Partners

The SBD World’s Strongest Man has unveiled its lineup of sponsors for the 2025 competition, which will feature 25 of the world’s top strongmen facing off in an epic series of events. The competition returns to Sacramento, California, from May 15–18, 2025, marking its first appearance in the city since 2022. LUCY joins the World’s Strongest Man roster as a first-time partner this year and will support the world-class event alongside returning partners Rogue Fitness, KNAACK, AIRWAAV, Visit Sacramento and title sponsor SBD.

“We deeply value the relationships we’ve cultivated with our core sponsors and the meaningful impact we’re able to create together through the World’s Strongest Man platform—including with the City of Sacramento, which we’re proud to return to for a third year,” said Rebecca Levin, Vice President, Rights, North America, IMG. “With its fast-growing digital fanbase, extensive global broadcast reach, and viral social content, World’s Strongest Man provides a unique opportunity for brands and host cities to connect with an organic, authentic, and highly-engaged audience.”

SBD returns for a sixth year as the title sponsor of the World’s Strongest Man. SBD is the market-leading producer of apparel and accessories for strength sports. Designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom, SBD products are relied upon by elite strength athletes worldwide in the most grueling contests, like World’s Strongest Man.

Returning as the “Official Equipment Supplier” for the eighth year, Rogue Fitness is the leading manufacturer of strength and conditioning equipment, including barbells, power racks, sleds, and accessories. Founded in a garage in 2006, the company remains dedicated to serving the needs of serious athletes at every level.

LUCY joins World’s Strongest Man as an official partner for the first time. Designed for adult nicotine users seeking a modern, more flexible experience, LUCY nicotine pouches offer a discreet, spit-free format that fits seamlessly into the lives of athletes and fans alike. As a first-year partner, LUCY is proud to support the strength, focus, and discipline that define the World’s Strongest Man — and to celebrate the power that drives us all, in both mind and body.

KNAACK® is excited to return for the fifth consecutive year as the “Official Security and Tool Storage” sponsor of the World’s Strongest Man competition. This year, KNAACK will sponsor the new KNAACK Carry & Hoist event, which challenges athletes with a timed two-part task: first, carrying two KNAACK toolboxes, followed by a seated arm-over-arm hoist of a larger toolbox. In celebration of the incredible strength and determination required to compete at this level, KNAACK will once again present the prestigious peer-voted “KNAACK Tools of a Strongman” award to one deserving athlete.

AIRWAAV is back for its third year as the “Official Mouthpiece” of World’s Strongest Man. Backed by 15+ years of peer-reviewed research, the AIRWAAV Performance Mouthpiece is trusted by top competitors—including 2023 champion Mitchell Hooper and reigning three-time champion Tom Stoltman—to boost strength, endurance, and recovery. This year, AIRWAAV is also highlighting the Recovery Mouthpiece for sleep, designed to improve nighttime breathing and accelerate recovery overnight, along with all-new Nasal Strips. AIRWAAV will have a booth in the WSM Fan Zone with a full range of products available at an exclusive event price. 

Visit Sacramento works to improve the quality of life for residents by driving visitor spending that supports the local business community, creates jobs and makes Sacramento a better place to call home. As the premier destination marketing and development organization for the region’s tourism industry, Visit Sacramento plays a lead role in the projects, programs and attractions that bring visitors to the city.

Additional 2025 partners also include Waiakea, Kinesio and Select Medical.

ShotTracker, ASB GlassFloor Announce New Strategic Partnership

ShotTracker, the industry leader in adaptive real-time data and AI-driven insights for basketball teams, leagues, facilities and fans today announced a new collaboration with ASB GlassFloor, placing ShotTracker’s advanced analytics and entertainment graphics into the design of ASB’s LED glass surfaces for the first time. As part of this initiative, the ShotTracker’s Helix system has been installed in the ASB Glassfloor Athlete’s Lab in Orlando, which is currently in use by NBA teams and other visiting sports properties year around.

“The ability to partner with ASB GlassFloor to add our state-of-the art data collection and visualization tools to their cutting-edge floor designs opens us up to a new global audience of teams. leagues, coaches, players and fans who have yet to experience the power and breadth of our AI fueled solutions,” said Davyeon Ross, ShotTracker co-founder and CEO. “This collaborative work will not only expand player development, but performance analytics and fan experience options.”

‘ShotTracker is one of the most progressive, forward thinking companies in not just basketball but in all of sports data, spanning from player development to fan engagement and we are proud to be working with them going forward,” said Chris Thornton with ASB GlassFloor. “Their work should fit quite seamlessly and effectively into the coaching and team drill designs we currently offer with more coming in addition to entertainment data in the months ahead and will help expand both our utility and literal visibility as we grow together.”

ASB GlassFloor’s glass-paneled, LED-embedded basketball courts first caught the NBA’s attention at the FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup in 2023. Less than a year later, ASB’s flagship video floor, the LumiFlex, was canvas to the NBA celebrity game, dunk contest, 3- point shootout and skills competition at the 2024 All-Star weekend in Indianapolis. The implementation of ShotTracker will include interactive visual analytics focused on game planning and performance, as well as unlocking the potential for more “in the moment” marketing and sponsorship opportunities. The collaboration will also include a new Multi-Sport Adaptability component, with ASB’s instant court transformations combined with sport-specific statistics.

This news follows ShotTracker’s continued growth in 2025. That includes enhanced work with the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships and the largest expansion in university partners in recent company history. ShotTracker partner schools currently include over fifty universities, with more coming later this year.

American Association Sets Attendance Records On Opening Weekend

The Opening weekend for the 20th season of American Association baseball saw records fall off the field. Over 63,654 attended games in the four days (each of the six home teams hosting three games), breaking the Opening Weekend record of 61,382, set in 2022. The defending champion Kane County Cougars led the way with the largest crowd of the weekend, 7,032 Saturday against Sioux City.

“The data tells the story, the effort our teams put in during the offseason to build momentum and awareness from the start of the season literally paid off, and that bodes really well for what we think will be a record season in every aspect for our league,” American Association Commissioner Josh Schaub said. “From new brands and media partners to the innovative promotions our clubs are creating, we are set up for success in every aspect of our business in 2025 and beyond.”

Among the off-season partnerships the AAPB has announced are an agreement with Carbliss as the league’s first-ever Founding Partner and its official “Ready to Drink” beverage; Champro, the official uniform supplier for the BCL; an extension with VensureHR as the exclusive and preferred supplier in the payroll category for the league; Unbeaten, RYZ Network and FuboTV as broadcast partners; CAPX as official hat; and IAS Branding as preferred promotional partner.

The MLB Partner League began its slate, in which each of the 12 teams play 100 regular season contests, on Thursday with Kane County and Cleburne (Texas) opening the season at home. Milwaukee, Chicago, Kansas City and Fargo-Moorhead also hosted series over the weekend. Sioux Falls, Sioux City, Gary SouthShore, Lincoln and Lake Country will begin their home slates this week, while Winnipeg will do so on May 20.

The Harlem Globetrotters Sports Residency Returns To American Dream July 2025 For Nine Consecutive Days

Leaders in breaking barriers and making history, the world famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ today announced they will be returning Saturday, July 12th– Sunday, 20th to American Dream in New Jersey for the second version of their summer sports residency. The news was announced today by both Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios and Bryan Gaus, Senior Vice President and General Manager of American Dream.

“The Harlem Globetrotters are the first sports team in history to host a residency and we’re excited once again partner with American Dream and provide our fans legendary entertainment with the return of our kids day camps for the first time in over a decade,” said Dawkins. “This residency will also have us welcoming basketball competitors from all over the world to try out to join our Centennial team as we lead to our 100th in 2026!”

The nine-day residency at American Dream, the world’s leading and innovative retail, dining and entertainment destination, will include an open tryout for men and women to join the squad for next year’s historic season, eight LIVE games throughout the week, where the Harlem Globetrotters™ will take on their legendary rivals, the Washington Generals, and two-hour Globetrotter Basketball Day Camps for kids. Additional details and special events and activities tied to the residency will be announced in the coming weeks. The Globetrotters will also be streaming content on their new owned and operated channels and are in discussions with media partners on additional distribution channels highlighting the residency.

“The Harlem Globetrotters, just like American Dream, embody community, entertainment, and fun, making us the perfect partners for this groundbreaking residency,” said Gaus.  “Our property continues to set the standard as a unique sports and events destination while also complementing MetLife Stadium’s extensive list of events next door. Now, one of the most iconic sports franchises will call American Dream home.”

American Dream has become a destination for major sporting events. The center hosted the 2024 USA Curling National Championships, the National Basketball Player Association’s The Throne – High School Basketball National Championship and Arena Bowl 33. Additionally, there are several more athletic competitions and events in the pipeline that will be announced shortly. These events make up a portion of the 500 events held annually at the venue, which also boasts an extensive list of top retailers, fine dining and world-class attractions.

American Association Season Opens Today: Ten Things to Know in the AAPB This Week

After an off-season filled with new partnerships, MLB organization signings and a fun run by the Kane County Cougars in the Baseball Champions League (BCL) Americas last month, the American Association of Professional Baseball (@AA_Baseball) is set to begin the 2025 regular season with two games today, including the defending Miles Wolff Cup Champion Cougars hosting Sioux City at 6:30 p.m. CT / 7:30 p.m. ET.

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

Tim Smith Spirits Named ‘Official Whiskey Partner’ of TCL Team Boxing League

TCL Team Boxing League (TCL), the first and only professional boxing league with a team-based ownership model, is proud to announce a new multi-platform partnership with Tim Smith Spirits, the award-winning craft distiller behind Climax Fire No. 32 (“Fire 32 Whiskey”), an acclaimed cinnamon spice flavored whiskey. As the Official Whiskey Partner of TCL, Tim Smith Spirits and its Fire 32 Whiskey will be activated across TCL’s Third Season through a wide-ranging campaign spanning broadcast, in-ring branding, digital integration, and on-site fan engagement.

Through this collaboration, Fire 32 Whiskey will be prominently featured during TCL broadcasts on Merit TV, the multiplatform network founded by Dr. Phil McGraw. The partnership includes commercial spots, sponsored features, and integrated content during weekly matchups, including “Knockout of the Match”. Fire 32 Whiskey branding will also appear inside the ring at all league events, ensuring high visibility during key moments of competition.

Select TCL events will feature onsite activations with Tim Smith Spirits, bringing the bold flavor of Fire 32 Whiskey directly to fans. Beyond the arena, the partnership extends into TCL’s digital and social media campaigns, with Fire 32 Whiskey showcased through exclusive content, athlete collaborations, and brand storytelling that connects with passionate boxing fans and bourbon enthusiasts alike. Tim Smith Spirits will also receive intellectual property (IP) rights from TCL, allowing the brand to co-market using official league marks and team assets—providing expanded creative opportunities across advertising and retail promotions.

“We’re excited to light up the TCL ring with Fire 32 Whiskey,” said Tim Smith, founder of Tim Smith Spirits and star of Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners. “This partnership is about bold moves, big hits, and unforgettable flavor—both in the ring and in the glass. We can’t wait to engage with TCL fans who live for the energy and excitement we bring.”

“Fire 32 Whiskey brings authenticity, attitude, and energy to TCL,” added Kevin Cassidy, CEO of Team Combat Entertainment. “Tim Smith Spirits shares our passion for excellence and fan engagement, and this partnership brings tremendous value to our audience and athletes alike.”

ToonieBet Launches Sportsbook, Elevating Player Experience and Local Community Engagement in Ontario

ToonieBet, Soft2Bet’s flagship online casino and sportsbook for Ontario, has officially launched its sportsbook on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The platform is tailored specifically for local players, offering a dynamic betting experience with a broad range of sports events and competitive odds. The platform also features personalised promotions and loyalty rewards designed to match the preferences of Ontario’s diverse betting community.

The sportsbook uses official data feeds, ensuring players have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information on top local and international sports events. Additionally, the platform offers live broadcasting with real-time match analytics, allowing users to make informed betting decisions as events unfold. Integrated with MEGA and advanced player account management features, the operator is committed to delivering a seamless and responsible gaming environment that enhances the overall player experience while supporting local sports initiatives.

As part of this launch, the platform has also introduced a Sportsbook section on its official website, expanding its portfolio and bringing more choice to its growing customer base. With access to over 85,000 live events each month and more than 70,000 pre-match events across a wide range of sports, players now have even more ways to bet on what they love. Soft2Bet’s Canadian brand invites all players to explore its standout online casino and the full spectrum of sports betting, all delivered through a fast, secure, and fully localised platform.

Since its debut at the end of 2024, ToonieBet has offered a fast, fair, and secure online casino and sportsbook experience, fully localised for Ontario’s vibrant gaming market. The Apple App and Google Play additions further enhance accessibility, bringing ToonieBet’s premium entertainment to players on the go.                          

Additionally, this milestone complements the operator’s recent partnership with the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, which made ToonieBet the Official Online Casino Partner of the team. The partnership includes in-arena branding, digital promotions, and fan engagement initiatives like social contests, allowing ToonieBet to connect with Ontario sports fans in exciting ways and offering chances to win team merchandise and tickets.

Yoel Zuckerberg, Soft2Bet’s Chief Product Officer stated: “As Soft2Bet continues our rapid growth, we are excited to provide Ontario players with access to ToonieBet’s sportsbook which is now available on the Apple App and Google Play Store, offering seamless access to a customised experience tailored for the province’s passionate gaming community.”

ToonieBet is Soft2Bet’s brand, one of the world’s fastest-growing iGaming turnkey solutions providers, that delivers high-quality products and services for online gambling operators with iGaming brands around the world and a portfolio of 19 global licenses, including Ontario.

Fanatics Casino Launches with $2 Million FanCash Drop

Today, Fanatics Betting and Gaming announced the launch of Fanatics Casino on iOS and Android in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Fanatics Casino is also launching a web version today in West Virginia with Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania coming soon. 

To celebrate the launch of the fastest growing online casino in America, all Fanatics Casino customers can enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win a share of $2 million in FanCash**.  Fanatics Casino customers can wager $10 on their favorite casino games for an entry into the sweepstakes.  Every Thursday in May and June, Fanatics will draw winners and drop a share of $250,000 in FanCash into their accounts.  Each week, one winner will take home the top prize of $25,000 in FanCash.    

Players are invited to dive into a world of thrills as Fanatics Casino brings the casino floor directly to a customer’s fingertips, whether on-the-go or in front of a computer. Players can explore a wide array of classic and modern casino games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, progressive jackpots and video poker. Each game is crafted to deliver authentic casino action, ensuring endless entertainment.

Fanatics Casino offers a comprehensive and engaging gaming experience with the following features: 

  • Offer: We are giving first time players 500 free spins for Cash Eruption over 10 days when you wager $10.***  
  • Unlock the world of FanCash:  When you play with Fanatics Casino, players can earn FanCash on every spin, hand or roll, win or lose. Flip your FanCash into Casino Credit, Bonus Bets, exclusive apparel and so much more.**** 
  • Daily Free Spin: Play the exclusive Fanatics Casino Spin to Win game every day for a chance to win Casino Credit, Free Spins, merch and more.*****
  • Live Dealer Action: Engage with professional dealers in real-time through our live casino feature. Experience the excitement of live blackjack, roulette and baccarat, all from the comfort of your home.  
  • 24/7 Support: A dedicated customer support team is available around the clock to assist with any inquiries or issues, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.

In an effort to deliver a world class gaming experience, Fanatics Casino has curated a portfolio of games from its in-house development team, as well as, the most popular game developers in the world including: 

  • Fanatics Game Studios: Fanatics Casino will feature exclusive content developed in-house by Fanatics Game Studios including the popular Fanatics Fire Roulette, Fanatics Blackjack and Fanatics Multi-hand Blackjack games.
  • Light & Wonder: Light & Wonder will supply Fanatics Casino with top-performing first-party titles including 88 FORTUNES™, JIN JI BAO™ ENDLESS TREASURES™, DANCING DRUMS EXPLOSION™ and ULTIMATE FIRE LINK™ CHINA STREET™. Additionally, through the Light & Wonder content marketplace, Fanatics Casino gains access to premium titles from a wide range of top studios, offering an unrivaled entertainment experience for players.
  • IGT PlayDigital™: Fanatics Casino players can enjoy a range of highly engaging IGT PlayDigital games including many of the classic titles that iGaming players love including Cash Eruption™, Fortune Coin™, Mystery of the Lamp™, Double Top Dollar™ and Cleopatra™, as well as proprietary table games and video poker content.
  • Evolved Live Casino Games: Fanatics Casino has partnered with Evolution to provide customers with world-leading live casino games including Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat and Poker variants. In addition, Evolution will provide Fanatics Casino with an exciting lineup of online slots, the award-winning Lightning Roulette, and many more. 
  • White Hat Studios: Known for bringing branded entertainment to life, White Hat Studios will offer Fanatics Casino customers access to popular slots, including the hit titles Goonies Hey You Guys™ and Ted Cashlock™.  Fanatics Casino will also house a curated selection of White Hat Studios’ dedicated table games and popular slots including Almighty Buffalo™ Megaways™.
  • All the Way with Wazdan: Players in NJ, PA and MI only can enjoy Wazdan’s most iconic titles, 9 Coins™ Grand Gold Edition, Hot Slot™: 777 Crown, and Magic Spins™.  

Fanatics Betting and Gaming is committed to responsible gaming. Fanatics Casino encourages customers to Play with A Plan using in-app tools that allow customers to set time, deposit and wager limits. Fanatics Betting and Gaming has also partnered with Birches Health to provide additional support services intended for customers with issues managing their play. 

Dave Checketts And The Cynosure Group Announce New Private Equity Joint Venture

Dave Checketts, an influential figure in global sports business, and The Cynosure Group, a diversified private investment firm founded by the Eccles family, today announced the formation of Cynosure | Checketts Sports Capital, a new strategic collaboration dedicated to investing in high-potential sports opportunities. Work has begun on identifying and implementing plans in the global sports space, with several deals already in the pipeline, and their initial fund targets commitments in excess of $1.2 billion. The partnership will have offices in both New York and Salt Lake City.

This strategic collaboration combines Checketts’ unique experience across four decades in sports management and investment, with Cynosure’s established investment expertise and financial resources. It also reunites two powerful entities who worked closely to keep the Utah Jazz of the NBA in Salt Lake City over 30 years ago, effectively jumpstarting one of the most desirable sports investment communities in the world today.

“This partnership is a dream come true for me, reuniting me with the Eccles family, who were key in keeping the Jazz in Salt Lake City, bringing the Olympic Winter Games to Utah in 2002 and building tremendous intercollegiate athletic programs in the state,” said Dave Checketts. “By joining forces today with The Cynosure Group, we are creating a powerhouse entity with assets that will make us competitive on a global scale and will give us great opportunities to help shape the future of the industry right away.”

“We have known Dave Checketts for nearly half a century, since the years when our family’s bank provided the financing for the Utah Jazz, and we’ve always admired his achievements and integrity,” added Spencer P. Eccles, managing director of the Cynosure Group. “This venture brings together Dave’s storied career in the business of sport and his remarkable team, with Cynosure’s disciplined investment process and financial horsepower. We’re confident that Cynosure | Checketts will quickly establish itself as a leading investor in this space.”

Randal Quarles, Chairman of The Cynosure Group and former Vice Chairman of the Federal Reserve, added: “Sports represents a unique asset class with tremendous growth potential. By partnering with Dave Checketts, whose expertise in building value across multiple sports properties is unmatched, we are positioning ourselves to capitalize on the most compelling opportunities in this dynamic market.”

Strategic Investment Focus

Cynosure | Checketts Sports Capital will target investments across multiple segments of the sports industry, including:

  • Professional and collegiate sports teams
  • Sports leagues and governing bodies
  • Stadiums, arenas, and other sports facilities
  • Sports technology and innovation companies
  • Media rights and broadcasting ventures