Category Archives: Major Sports

ShotTracker Expands Helix and Hype Activation With Phillips BIG 12 M&W Basketball Tournaments

ShotTracker, the industry leader in adaptive real-time data and AI-driven insights for teams, leagues, facilities and consumers, today announced and expansion of their product offerings tied to the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships being held at The T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri last weekend and this week. This expansion of products will be the company’s most robust offering with a partner and will involve everything from consumer enhancement with scoreboard and in-game programming to technology on the bench and in broadcasts during the Conference’s tournaments.

“The Big 12 Conference and its members continue to set the standard for innovation in collegiate athletics and we’re privileged to deepen our strategic partnership by bringing both our advanced products, Hype and Helix, to the T-Mobile Center,” said Davyeon Ross, ShotTracker co-founder and CEO. “Our groundbreaking collaboration represents what happens when two innovative leaders work jointly to transform the basketball experience. The Big 12’s vision, coupled with ShotTracker’s latest AI-driven solutions, will create a transformative experience—providing teams with advanced analytics while delivering fans an enhanced tournament experience unlike any other in collegiate sports.”

“Our partnership with ShotTracker aligns with the Big 12’s mission to be the conference of innovation and live at the forefront of new technology,” said Big 12 Chief Marketing Officer Tyrel Kirkham. “The incorporation of these new features into our Conference’s basketball tournaments enhances the fan experience inside T-Mobile Center and provides cutting-edge analytics for our schools.”

Helix (sensor technology tied to team performance in real time) and Hype (graphics and games tied to the consumer experience in arena and in broadcast) will both be featured during the men’s and women’s tournaments, providing the most expansive activation of all ShotTracker technology for the first time. Content for Hype this year will be expanded into use on social platforms for the first time turning real-time stats into powerful 3D graphic displays for use by marketing. In addition to custom content being developed for in-game activation, Hype games is an entertainment platform that delivers multi-generational games including Bingo, Tic Tac Toe and others powered by real game stats to enhance the fan experience and generate more sponsorship revenue

The enhanced work with the 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships is the latest in a series of proactive growth stories tied to the company. ShotTracker recently announced the addition or renewal of 17 partner schools, one of the largest expansions in recent company history and included Marshall University and San Diego State’s women’s basketball program, the men’s programs at Indiana University, Boise State and Purdue and four Big 12 schools that are adding products for both men’s and women’s programs at Arizona State, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. That brings the number of ShotTracker partner schools to over fifty, with more coming later this year.

Soft2Bet to Launch Award-Winning iGaming Solutions and Products in the United States

Soft2Bet, one of the world’s fastest growing iGaming turnkey solutions providers, today announced its plans to launch in the U.S. headlined by the debut of its award-winning Motivational Engineering Gaming Application (MEGA) product, made possible through a market access agreement with Caesars Entertainment. The launch will see Soft2Bet unveil a new iGaming brand in New Jersey, following necessary regulatory approvals, and with a targeted launch in the Summer of 2025. 

“As a global company with a proven history of success and innovation, our plans to launch in the U.S. is monumental for Soft2Bet and our continued growth,” said Uri Poliavich, Founder and CEO of Soft2Bet. “We are set to redefine gamification here in the U.S. and ultimately provide players with an incredible gaming experience with the debut of a new and transformative iGaming brand this summer.” 

Award-Winning MEGA Now Available:

Soft2Bet’s award-winning MEGA will soon be available to operators in the U.S. The MEGA product, which Soft2Bet unveiled in 2023, has quickly redefined and transformed gamification with increased engagement, customized player experience, and a proven player retention model. Operators around the world using Soft2Bet’s MEGA gamification technology platform have seen positive impact with high engagement and retention including: a 400% increase in screen time, 65% increase in Net Gaming Revenue (NGR), 50% increase in deposit amounts, and a 45% increase in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU).

Soft2Bet’s Proven History and Success:

Soft2Bet originally launched in 2016 and was founded by Poliavich, who is focused on creating generational and innovative products to revolutionize the gaming industry. The company has a proven track record of developing and launching successful iGaming brands around the world such as Betinia (Denmark, Sweden), Yoyocasino (Sweden), Campobet (Denmark, Mexico, Sweden), Quickcasino (Sweden) and Don.ro (Romania). 

Soft2Bet currently holds a portfolio of 16 global licenses in countries including Denmark, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Mexico, Ontario (Canada), Romania, Spain, and Sweden.

Overall, Soft2Bet offers more than 12,500 games from hundreds of providers and conducts more than 1 million live events each year, with gaming features available in more than 20 languages for significant global reach and rapid scaling.

Soft2Bet has received numerous recognitions and awards from various industry leaders including EGR, SBC, SIGMA, and many others. Most recently, Soft2Bet received three major awards at the prestigious Global Gaming Awards EMEA 2025, including Executive of the Year (Poliavich), Platform Provider of the Year (Soft2Bet), and Product Launch of the Year (MEGA).

Defender Tobi Adewole, Forward Juan Carlos Obregón, Jr. Named to USL League One Team of the Week for Week 1

USL League One today announced that Westchester Soccer Club defender Tobi Adewole (Cheverly, Md.) and forward Juan Carlos Obregón, Jr. (New York, NY) have been named to the Team of the Week for the season’s inaugural weekend.

Adewole played a key role in holding Greenville to just one goal on Saturday through his 82% passing accuracy, seven duels won, six long passes completed, five clearances and two fouls won, while Obregón etched his name into the history books by converting a penalty in the first half, WSC’s first goal in their eventual 1-1 draw at Greenville SC. He won one penalty, completed 68% of his passes, tallied three recoveries, won three duels, completed two long passes and won two fouls as well.

“Saturday was a tough game against a very well coached and established club full of experience and quality on the pitch,’ said head coach Dave Carton. ‘Both Tobi and JC were outstanding in their roles, and it is great to see them honored by the league in our first match. The most pleasing aspect of our performance was how we grew into the game. I was encouraged by not only the physical output of the team, but also the mentality of our players showing their drive to get a more favorable result.”

The rest of the week one honor roll included: Coach – Darren Sawatzky (RIC), GK – Jason Smith (CHA), D – Jake Dengler (NAP), D – Tyler Polak (GVL), D – Maxi Schenfeld (RIC), M – Darwin Espinal (RIC), M – Chandler O’Dwyer (RIC), M – Nils Seufert (RIC), M – Sebastián Velásquez (GVL), F – Mason Tunbridge (TRM) and Bench: GK – Gunther Rankenburg (GVL), D – Simon Fitch (RIC), M – Hayden Anderson (RIC), M – Dakota Barnathan (RIC), M – Andrés Ferrín (NAP), M – Omar Hernandez (CHA), M – Niall Reid-Stephen (TRM)

WSC will next be in USL League One action on Saturday March 29th when they visit Texoma FC in Sherman, TX the second of four road matches to open their inaugural season, before their USL home opener on Sunday, April 27th against Rhode Island FC.

The full schedule is at https://www.westchestersc.com/

Telemundo Redefines Hispanic Sports News & Entertainment With “El Pelotazo” To Premiere March 10

Telemundo is set to redefine Hispanic sports entertainment with the launch of El Pelotazo, a dynamic and fast-paced late-night sports show premiering March 10 at midnight ET/PT. Airing live seven days a week, the new sports program offers the latest news and insightful analysis with special guests and an unconventional format designed to engage today’s Hispanic sports fans.
 

“We are proud to introduce El Pelotazo and offer our Hispanic audiences a new concept for sports entertainment—different from anything we’ve seen in Spanish-language television,” said Joaquin Duro, EVP, Sports, NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises. “With the growing influence of soccer in the U.S. and the pivotal role of the Latino community in the sports landscape, El Pelotazo will fill a void and become a must-watch, solidifying Telemundo as the go-to destination for sports coverage leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
 

DYNAMIC HOSTS FOR A PERSONALITY-DRIVEN FORMAT

El Pelotazo will be hosted by an exciting trio of personalities: Verónica Rodríguez, Pablo Mariño, and Diego Arrioja, who bring their unique perspectives and high energy to the show. Together, they will cover the latest sports headlines from around the world, provide expert analysis, engage in lively debates and welcome special guests, including athletes and sports experts, to enhance and elevate the conversation. Below are short bios and here’s a link to the press site: https://publicity.gettyimages.com/telemundo/elpelotazo
 

  • Verónica Rodríguez – knowledgeable and versatile Mexican sports journalist and anchor with more than 15 years of experience. A familiar face at Telemundo, Rodríguez serves as a host of Liga MX’s Chivas de Guadalajara pre- and post-game show, enhancing the network’s Liga MX offering with complete around the game coverage, analysis, special reports and exclusive interviews.
  • Pablo Mariño – seasoned and insightful Argentine sports journalist with more than 25 years of experience in the industry. Mariño brings his deep sports knowledge and sharp analysis to the discussion having been a prominent voice in sports media serving as presenter and analyst for major networks in the U.S. and Latin America.
  • Diego Arrioja – experienced and dynamic Mexican sports journalist with over 14 years in the industry. Arrioja’s career spans multiple major sporting events, including three FIFA World Cups, NFL Super Bowls, and UEFA Euro, among others.


A NAME THAT SETS THE TONE

Like a pelotazo—the powerful strike of a ball—this show will deliver high-energy sports coverage infused with captivating storytelling and insightful analysis, feature innovative sports highlights, unconventional perspectives, and interactive segments that engage fans in fresh and unexpected ways. Notable segments include:


  • MINUTO DE FAMA: Celebrity guests share their passion for sports and discuss their favorite teams and moments.
  • !SE BUSCA!: A nostalgic look at legendary sports figures, tracking where they are now and what life looks like after the game.
  • MANO A MANO: Exclusive, never-before-heard stories from top athletes worldwide.


BOLD LOOK TO MATCH THE ENERGY

The show will debut with a look and branding designed specifically for El Pelotazo with cutting-edge technology and multiple vibrant positions that mirror the energy of the show. The set combines a bold brand with high-quality production to enhance the viewing experience with innovative graphics and immersive storytelling elements designed specifically for El Pelotazo. 

El Pelotazo is produced by Telemundo Deportes and will originate from its studio in Miami at Telemundo Center, a 500,000+ square-feet state-of-the-art production and broadcast facility second to none in the industry.

MULTIPLATFORM AND NATURALLY SOCIAL

El Pelotazo will extend beyond television with amplification of content, highlights and featured clips across social media platforms in real time and following its airing. In addition, due to its naturally social format, the show will integrate social media and encourage fan participation. Viewers can join the fun and follow the conversation on @TelemundoDeportes using #ElPelotazo and connect with the hosts @verolaguera, @diego__arrioja and @pablofmarino. 

TOGETHXR Reveals $6M Record Revenue As “Everyone Watches Women’s Sports” Advances the Movement

Trailblazing media and commerce company TOGETHXR – which originated the “Everyone Watches Women’s Sports” (EWWS) slogan and product line – today announced a record-breaking $6 million in 2024 revenue from the sale of its popular shirts, hoodies, and tote bags. Co-founded by sports media veteran Jessica Robertson alongside world-champion athletes Alex Morgan, Sue Bird, Simone Manuel, and Chloe Kim,TOGETHXR has doubled the company’s mid-year revenue reported in June, as it continues to advance the women’s sports movement.

From marquee athletes (Steph Curry, Serena Williams) and celebrities (Aubrey Plaza, Jason Sudeikis) donning TOGETHXR’s highly coveted EWWS apparel to former President Joe Biden incorporating the tagline into his official remarks at the White House, TOGETHXR has put a longstanding truth into words, boldly stating and giving life to the undeniable fact that the entire industry has adopted – everyone watches women’s sports.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate the ‘Everyone Watches Women’s Sports’ product line as a mantra that has rallied and validated a unified community,” said TOGETHXR Co-Founder and Chief Content Officer Jessica Robertson. “TOGETHXR is intentionally positioned at the intersection of culture, lifestyle, and sports. As a media and commerce company, we are fulfilling the longstanding desire from those seeking more women’s sports apparel, media coverage, and multi-platform storytelling.”

In addition to the EWWS product line, TOGETHXR is the fastest growing and most engaging media company in its category. With media content that focuses on rich storytelling rooted in lifestyle and culture, TOGETHXR highlights a diverse and inclusive community for women in sports across a wide range of owned and operated channels as well as for top-tier streamers and networks. TOGETHXR’s in-house production studio has developed a slate of scripted and unscripted premium content – including documentaries and docuseries that are streaming on Amazon Prime Video and FuboTV among others.

Meanwhile from 2023-2024,TOGETHXR has achieved a global reach of more than 3.5 million across all @togethxr social media platforms (approximately 17% YTD increase from 2023-24). The brand’s burgeoning social audience includes 2.25 million followers on TikTok – the largest among women’s sports media outlets, and the company launched @gettogethxr – a sub account for community members. As a social media destination for content, TOGETHXR’s follower comments increased by 42.7%, with July and August 2024, generating TOGETHXR’s highest performing content months of the year.

At the forefront of leading connectivity to the women’s sports movement, TOGETHXR maintains long-term partnerships with global brands, including Aflac, TJ Maxx, Nike and others, who aim to authentically invest in women’s sports. In collaboration with Nike in December 2024, TOGETHXR launched a special player-exclusive edition of the Nike G.T. Hustle 3 footwear in team-inspired colorways that celebrated USC and JuJu Watkins versus UConn and Paige Bueckers in a rematch of two of the top teams in women’s college basketball.

As a league-wide partner of both the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), TOGETHXR continues to highlight female athletes’ journeys and increase the visibility of women’s sports and its respective media coverage.

TOGETHXR has partnered with several teams across the two leagues, including the Golden State Valkyries (WNBA), New York Liberty (WNBA), Angel City FC (NWSL), Bay FC (NWSL), Gotham FC (NWSL), and Kansas City Current (NWSL).

Belleville, N.J. Native Max Correa Named Eighth Caldwell University Men’s Soccer Coach

Max Correa, a native of nearby Belleville, N.J., has been named the eighth Caldwell University Head Men’s Soccer Coach, it was announced today by Mark A. Corino, Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics. Correa, most recently an assistant coach at Division I College of Charleston since 2021, succeeds Evan Marques, who resigned in December after three years at the helm.

Correa, a 2018 graduate of Drew University, was promoted in 2023 to assistant coach at Charleston after serving as director of operations & player development and volunteer assistant coach at the South Carolina school. In his most recent role, he had a hand in all facets of the Coastal Athletic Association program, responsible for scouting reports, Playertek Data, session planning, organizing camps, video, recruiting, on-field training and more. Previously, he was assistant coach at Wilkes (Pa.) University from 2019-2021.

Under his assistance, Charleston recorded a 10-6-2 season—its best since 2017—exceeding preseason projections and securing a fifth-place conference finish. He also coached multiple award-winning players, including the Co-Midfielder of the Year, two First Team All-Conference selections, and three All-Region honorees. His expertise in set-piece strategies contributed to 15 goals, accounting for 40% of the team’s total scoring.

During the Fall 2023 season, Correa helped Charleston achieve a 6-6-5 record, marking the program’s first non-losing season since 2017. Throughout his tenure, six players received postseason accolades, including the 2021 CAA Rookie of the Year. Prior to Charleston, Correa played a pivotal role at Wilkes University, where he helped secure the program’s first playoff victory since 2008 and its first winning record since 2013.

“The combination of Max’s experience in the sport, New Jersey connections, and demonstrated variety of skills and abilities made him a strong candidate,” said Corino. “It became even more apparent when we met him that he would be a good fit here, and we are pleased to welcome him to the Caldwell University family.”

Correa will have Caldwell Athletics administrator duties as well as his coaching responsibilities.

Correa enjoyed a standout playing career at Drew, where the team captain helped the Rangers to an NCAA Division III Sweet Sixteen appearance, Landmark Conference championship and ECAC championship. The 2019 graduate finished third in school and second in Landmark history in assists (26). The economics major went on to earn his MBA at Wilkes and a Master coach Diploma from the University of Delaware.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to take on the role of Head Men’s Soccer Coach at Caldwell University,” said Correa. “I want to thank Mr. Corino and the Caldwell Athletics Department for this opportunity. This program has a strong foundation, and I look forward to building on the success that Coach Marques established while fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and growth for our student-athletes. I am eager to bring my experience and passion for the game to Caldwell and to help our players reach their full potential both on and off the field.”

His local ties run even deeper, as the Belleville, N.J. native was a four-year varsity player and three-year captain at Belleville High School. His extensive youth soccer coaching experience includes stints with the Montclair Soccer Club, Bound-brook based United Soccer Academy, and South Carolina Surf.

Max holds his USSF B License and Scottish FA UEFA C Diploma and is a Level 2 ISPAS Accredited Performance Analyst.

ShotTracker Announces Additions and Partnership Extensions for 17 NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Programs

ShotTracker, the industry leader in adaptive real-time data and AI-driven insights for teams, leagues, facilities and consumers, today announced the addition or renewal of 17 partner schools, one of the largest expansions in recent company history.  The 17 schools who have either extended, expanded, or recently joined the ShotTracker family represent some of the most successful programs in men’s and women’s basketball, further adding to the continued upward path of the company and its cutting edge technology.

“We are proud to be leading the continued evolution and integration of technology into the college performance space with tools like HYPE and HELIX and our growing work with AI, and this list of new and renewing partners shows we are on the right track,” said Davyeon Ross, ShotTracker co-founder and CEO. Best in class partners demand best in class products, and we will keep evolving, learning and providing for this group and a list that continues to grow.”  

The latest additions include: Marshall University and San Diego State’s women’s basketball program, the men’s programs at Indiana University, Boise State, Creighton, Purdue, Johnson C. Smith and four Big 12 schools that are adding products for both men’s and women’s programs at  Arizona State, Arizona, Utah, Colorado and Northwood.

These additions now bring ShotTracker to 50 teams total for Helix and/or Hype. 

World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters Re-Enter The Record Books By Smashing 18 Guinness World Records

The world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters, in the midst of their 2025 World Tour today officially announced they have set 18 Guinness World Records for basketball skills. The 18 records will be chronicled in an upcoming premiere episode of “Harlem Globetrotters: Play it Forward,” their weekly morning show on NBC and Telemundo premiering Saturday, February 22nd; a compilation video can be seen here.

“Throughout the 99 years of Globetrotter history, our athletes have combined great athleticism with showpersonship, and these world records further cement the fact that our tradition and excitement aren’t just continuing, it’s growing as we head towards our centennial in 2026,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “We congratulate all the recordholders and look forward to smashing even more in the years ahead.”

In all, 11 athletes combined to set the 18 records, the second-most the Globetrotters have broken in one year. The new record setters, three women and eight men, include: Cherelle “Torch” George (Reading, Pa.), Corey ‘Thunder” Law (Chesapeake, Va.), Latif “Jet” Rivers (Elizabeth, N.J.), Rock “Wham” Middleton (Atlanta), Arysia “Ace” Porter (San Antonio, Texas), Fatima “TNT” Lister (Colorado Springs, Colo.), Jahmani “Hot Shot” Swanson (New York), Darnell “Speedy” Artis (Philadelphia), Lou “Too Tall” Winston (Russellville, Ala.), and Alex “Moose” Weekes (Lilburn. Ga.).

The new official records are: (**new records set)

  • Most Dribble Turns between the Leg with One Hand in One Minute (Female) – Torch
  • Most Behind the Back Crossovers in One-Minute – Jet **
  • Most Behind the Backboard Shots in One-Minute (Female) – Torch
  • Most Spins from a Lateral Position while Dribbling in One-Minute – Ace
  • Most Transfers of a Basketball in One Continuous Spin between a Group – Torch, Ace, TNT
  • Most Three Pointers in One-Minute (Team of Two) – Hot Shot, Ace
  • Most Three Pointers in One-Minute (Male Team of Two) – Wham, Too Tall **
  • Farthest Backward Basketball Shot off the Back of the Hand – Moose**
  • Farthest Backward Basketball Shot – Thunder
  • Most Alternate One-Handed Basketball Bounces in One Minute (Two Balls) – Too Tall**
  • Longest Slide Dribbling a Basketball (Female) – TNT
  • Most Basketball Layups in Three Minutes – Too Tall**
  • Farthest Blindfolded Hookshot – Thunder **
  • Most Basketball Passes in One-Minute (Team of Two) – TNT, Wham**
  • Most 4 Point Shots from 30 Feet in Three Minutes (Male) – Speedy**
  • Most Three Pointers in One-Minute by a Trio – Jet, Wham, Too Tall**
  • Most transfers of a Basketball in One Continuous Spin between a Pair – Ace, Wham**
  • Farthest Basketball Shot made while sitting (Male) – Thunder

CAPX Named Official Hat of American Association and Preferred Supplier

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) and CAPX are pleased to announce a league wide partnership beginning in 2025.

The multi-year agreement names CAPX as the official hat, exclusive headwear marketing partner, and preferred headwear supplier of the league. As part of the partnership, CAPX will serve as the official hat provider for AAPB championship teams competing in the WBSC Baseball Champions League (BCL), starting this April with the reigning AAPB Champion Kane County Cougars.

“We are extremely excited to partner with CAPX. Their team’s resume of 35+ years in design and headwear innovation are unparalleled in the industry,” said American Association Commissioner Joshua Schaub. “We look forward to growing together.”

“At CAPX, we are thrilled to join forces with the American Association as their official hat partner,” said David Gormley, Founder of CAPX. “Our team is dedicated to delivering cutting-edge designs, superior craftmanship, and innovative headwear solutions for athletes and fans alike. We look forward to seeing our caps on the field and being part of the league’s continued success.”

In addition to its official designation, CAPX will offer AAPB team-branded hats for sale at stadiums throughout the League. CAPX will also be prominently featured in promotions across the league’s AABaseball.TV broadcast assets, social media platforms, and marquee events, including the All-Star Game, Home Run Derby, and Miles Wolff Cup Playoffs/Final.

The partnership was brokered by SRS Partners, the exclusive sponsorship sales agency for the Amercian Association.

Westchester Soccer Club, MSG Networks Announce Broadcast Partnership for Inaugural Season

Westchester Soccer Club (WSC) today announced an exclusive broadcast rights partnership with MSG Networks for the club’s inaugural USL League One season. WSC will officially open their first season on March 8 in Greenville, SC against Greenville Triumph SC with their home opener at The Stadium at Memorial Park against Rhode Island SC on April 27.

“New York sports fans know that MSG Networks is the premier platform in the biggest U.S. market to find their favorite team, and we are honored to be part of their sports portfolio from day one as Westchester’s first home grown professional team,” said Westchester SC Principal owner Mitch Baruchowitz.

“We’re proud to be the home of the Westchester Soccer Club in their inaugural season,” said Armando Polanco, vice president, content distribution, MSG Networks. “Adding the Westchester SC to our robust lineup of live professional team coverage is a win for our passionate fan base.”

WSC’s matches will be available via multiple platforms, including MSG Network, MSG Sportsnet, and MSG+, MSG Networks’ direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming service (included in the Gotham Sports App). Broadcasters as well as the full broadcast schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.

The club has been aggressively building its roster and leadership team and will be announcing several more signings in the coming weeks, as they ready for their initial season. The full schedule is at https://www.westchestersc.com.

Tim Kurkjian Among ‘Hal Richman Strat-O-Matic Hall of Fame’ Inductees on SOM Opening Day, Feb. 21

A time-honored tradition for thousands of fans throughout the years, Strat-O-Matic Opening Day is set for Friday, February 21, at company Headquarters in Glen Head, N.Y. There, Strat-O-Matic’s greatest enthusiasts line up along Railroad Avenue in the Long Island hamlet to be among the first to get their hands on new 2025 baseball games as well as the debut of numerous product offerings from the market leader in sports simulations.

For the third straight year, Opening Day will also serve as Induction Friday, with four new members joining the ranks of the “Hal Richman Strat-O-Matic Hall of Fame.” This year, legendary baseball media member and longtime SOM player Tim Kurkjian, Lamanna Baseball Bulletin creator John Lamanna, “Original Strat-O-Matic Ambassador” Tom Swank and longtime SOM game tester Ken Wenger will be honored on the 21st with enshrinement.

Kurkjian, who began playing Strat-O-Matic at age 13, also introduced the game to his son Jeff. Together they share baseball stories on their popular podcast “Is This A Great Game, or What?,” on which they also discuss a customized Strat-O-Matic simulation every week during the season.

In 2024, fans from as far away as Las Vegas began lining up as early as 2 a.m., braving less than temperate conditions to pick up their orders as well as gain the honor of meeting the Strat-O-Matic founder and creator, Hal Richman, who enjoys hearing fans talk about the decades of enjoyment that the game has brought them.

This year, fans who preordered will be able to go home with their purchases, including the new 2024 baseball season cards, “Diamond Gems” series featuring 16 great teams from the 2000-2009 decade, the full super-advanced 1970 baseball season, and the “True Blue Strat” designed t-shirt. Windows products including the 2025 game, numerous Negro League seasons, Cuban All-Time Stars teams and updated Hall of Fame roster will be released on Feb. 24.

American Association Names Carbliss First-Ever Founding Partner

The American Association of Professional Baseball and Carbliss have announced a three-year partnership beginning in 2025. Carbliss becomes the American Association’s first-ever Founding Partner and official “Ready to Drink” beverage of the League.

Carbliss, a canned ready-to-drink cocktail brand founded in Wisconsin, has seen sales grow from 52,000 cans in 2019 to 72,000,000 in 2024. Carbliss now ranks as the #1 Fastest Growing Food and Beverage Company on Inc. 5000s list of fastest growing privately owned companies.

“We are extremely thrilled that Carbliss selected the American Association of Professional Baseball as the marketing platform to introduce its brand for the first time ever on a League level. Our footprint, highlighted by our markets across the Midwest provides a grand opportunity to expand Carbliss’ brand and reach, while driving “seat-to-sip” in our intimate, professional stadiums” said American Association Commissioner, Joshua Schaub. “We look forward to working and growing together for years to come.”

As a part of the new League-wide program, Carbliss will have Behind Home Plate signage, a dominant branding position across nearly all twelve AAPB stadiums. Further, Carbliss will be featured as the Official Helmet Partner, with decal branding ownership across the league. This is the first time in League history that a sponsor has been featured on AAPB helmets.

Carbliss will also be named the Presenting partner of the AAPB All-Star Game to be played at Newman Outdoor Field in Fargo, N.D. on July 22, 2025. Additionally, Carbliss will sponsor a new league-wide Veterans Day initiative, honoring veteran owned companies throughout the American Association footprint.

The American Association, a MLB Partner League has achieved a 31% growth in attendance since 2021 (now over 1.65 million fans in 2024) while over 4 million fans watched AAPB broadcasts across various distribution platforms in 2024. At the same time, the League’s social media platforms totaled a reach of more than 12.1 million.

“Sports marketing has proven to be an excellent way for Carbliss to connect with our loyal fans while introducing our brand to new audiences. Our partnership with the American Association marks Carbliss’ first League-wide marketing collaboration, and we’re thrilled to work with the League and its member teams to showcase everything Carbliss has to offer to AAPB fans,” said Adam Kroener, President and Co-Founder of Carbliss.

Along with the forementioned marketing entitlements, Carbliss will focus on pouring, sampling, activation, and promotional nights across American Association teams. A direct part of this partnership will include Agave, a lead generation in-game gamification program.

SRS Partners, led by Seth Frankenthal, serves as the exclusive agency of record for the AAPB and brokered the deal on behalf of the League.

Kansas City Edges Philadelphia On Mahomes TD Pass With 0:15 Left In Strat-O-Matic Simulation

Patrick Mahomes completed a seven-yard touchdown pass to Marquise Brown for the game-winning score with 0:15 left as Kansas City earned its third straight title, a 30-27 verdict over Philadelphia in a simulation of this Sunday’s season-ending football contest by Strat-O-Matic (@StratOMatic), the market leader in sports simulations. The championship is the third straight for Kansas City, the first-ever “three-peat” since the league merger and the first team to win three consecutive circuit crowns since the 1966-68 Green Bay teams.

In the simulation, the Eagles took a 24-23 lead early in the fourth on a nine-yard pass from Jalen Hurts to Dallas Goedert, then extended to a 27-23 advantage on a 41-yard field goal by Jake Elliott with 8:22 left. After an exchange of punts, the Chiefs took over on their own 20 with 4:43 remaining, moving methodically down the field. Mahomes converted two third-and-threes with short passes to Samaje Perine and Noah Gray to keep the drive alive, the latter coming with 0:48 left, moving the ball to the Philadelphia 14. After getting half that distance on a look-in pass to Xavier Worthy with 0:30 left, Hurts connected with Marquise Brown in the end zone for the winning score.

Mahomes earned Game MVP by completing 29 of 44 passes for 344 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. His counterpart Hurts was up to the task, finishing with 16 of 27 for 216 yards, two scores and no INTs. The Chiefs did well to contain Saquon Barkley to 87 yards on 20 carries and a TD, while Goedert had the two TD catches among his three grabs for 48 yards.

Harrison Butker’s 22-yard field goal with 5:47 left in the third had given Kansas City the largest lead by either team, 23-14, before an Elliott field goal and Goedert’s second TD put Philadelphia ahead in the see-saw battle that saw five lead changes in all.

Philadelphia 7 7 3 10 > 27
Kansas City 10 10 3 7 > 30

Scoring Plays
Qtr Clock Team Scoring Description(Extra Point) Score
1 13:24 Phila D.Goedert 26 yd. pass from J.Hurts (J.Elliott kick) 7-0 PHN
1 10:37 K.C. H.Butker 45 yd. field goal 7-3 PHN
1 7:12 K.C. N.Gray 10 yd. pass from P.Mahomes (H.Butker kick) 10-7 KCA
2 12:20 K.C. H.Butker 52 yd. field goal 13-7 KCA
2 6:58 Phila S.Barkley 3 yd. run (J.Elliott kick) 14-13 PHN
2 2:00 K.C. K.Hunt 2 yd. run (H.Butker kick) 20-14 KCA
3 5:47 K.C. H.Butker 22 yd. field goal 23-14 KCA
3 1:03 Phila J.Elliott 46 yd. field goal 23-17 KCA
4 13:12 Phila D.Goedert 9 yd. pass from J.Hurts (J.Elliott kick) 24-23 PHN
4 8:22 Phila J.Elliott 41 yd. field goal 27-23 PHN
4 0:15 K.C. M.Brown 7 yd. pass from P.Mahomes (H.Butker kick) 30-27 KCA

Global Fight League Partners with Box to Box to Revolutionize MMA Storytelling

The Global Fight League (GFL) today announced an exclusive partnership with Box to Box, the Emmy-winning production company behind sports storytelling hits such as “Formula 1: Drive to Survive,” “Faceoff: Inside the NHL,” and “Sprint.” In this new partnership, Box to Box will collaborate with the GFL on content creation and ideation, from a flagship docuseries to dynamic digital features, live event broadcasts, and in-depth athlete profiles into and through the first season, which will begin this coming April.

“Box to Box is a global leader in transforming sports into captivating cultural phenomena, and their vision aligns perfectly with ours,” said Darren Owen, GFL Founder and Commissioner. “From the intensity of our athletes getting ready for the season to showcasing the emotional and physical challenges they will face during our launch, the Box to Box team will help us tell the GFL story in a way that resonates deeply with fans worldwide. This partnership is about creating an entirely new way for fans to experience MMA.”

“The GFL is pioneering a new chapter in MMA, and we’re thrilled to partner with them to bring their vision to life,” said Paul Martin, Founder of Box to Box. “We will help shape how the league and its athletes connect with audiences worldwide through groundbreaking content.”

Box to Box will oversee the creation of GFL’s content, chronicling the league’s historic launch and inaugural season. The company will also collaborate on production for live events, digital content, and exclusive athlete features, bringing the drama and excitement of GFL MMA directly to fans.

The partnership ensures the GFL’s content strategy is cohesive, compelling, and tailored for a global audience. Fans will gain a unique, behind-the-scenes look into the league’s journey, its innovative co-ed team-based format and 50-50 economic partnership with fighters, and the lives of its world-class athletes and coaches who are breaking barriers in the sport.

Additional details about the season launch will be announced in the coming weeks.

USMNT player and local soccer legend Tyler Adams to Join Westchester SC Ownership Group

Westchester Soccer Club today announced 2022 U.S. Soccer Player of the year, U.S. Men’s National Captain and current AFC Bournemouth star Tyler Adams has joined the club’s ownership group. Adams, a Red Bulls Academy product and Dutchess County NY, native, will become one of the first active professional players to take an ownership stake in a professional club, and is expected to be involved with all aspects of Westchester SC business when the club begins play this March. Adams is the second active professional athlete to join the Westchester SC ownership group. Current New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor was and remains part of the originally announced core of owners.

“This is a special day not just for our club, but for all of soccer and sport in the region,” said Westchester SC Principal owner Mitch Baruchowitz. “To have not only an elite athlete who was starred on the biggest stage, but someone whose family is deeply connected to developmental soccer in the region proactively join us at this stage of his career in a leadership position speaks volumes as to what we are building. We welcome Tyler and his family and look forward to having them with us as we head toward our inaugural season and beyond. ”

“Westchester Soccer Club represents everything I value about the game—community, development, and opportunity,” said Adams. “Growing up in Dutchess County, I’ve seen firsthand how soccer can bring people together and inspire young players to dream big. Joining this ownership group is not only an honor but also an incredible chance to give back to the region that played such a huge role in my journey.”

Adams began his career playing for the NY Red Bulls II in 2015 and excelled for the senior team before making his way to play in Germany with RB Leipzig. He moved to Leeds United of the Barclays Premier League and currently stars for AFC Bournemouth in the same league. Adams has also been a centerpiece for the US Men’s National team since 2017, earning 42 caps and anchoring the team’s advance to the knockout rounds of the 2022 World Cup, where he was the youngest captain for the USMNT since 1950.

Adams’s connection to the USL and the local Westchester soccer community goes far beyond his playing roots. Tyler’s mother, Melissa Russo, would drive Tyler three hours round trip from Wappingers Falls during his Red Bulls Academy days and Adams and his stepfather, Darryl Sullivan, owns the local USL 2 team Hudson Valley Hammers, and Tyler’s stepbrothers, Dylan, Darryl Jr., and Donovan all shined for local soccer teams.

Initial discussions between Westchester SC and Darryl and Tyler focused on the importance of family, the unique bond that the Westchester region has to soccer and how much it unites the diverse and unique neighborhoods throughout Westchester. As talks progressed between the parties, Baruchowitz and Sporting Director Simon Baines grew excited at the prospect of bringing one of the region’s true soccer success stories and a family of local soccer prominence into the effort.

Westchester is set to open its League One Season on the road in Greenville, South Carolina, on March 8th and will host its inaugural home game April 27th, at Memorial Stadium in Mount Vernon against 2024 USL Championship finalists Rhode Island FC.

The club has been aggressively building its roster and leadership team, and will be announcing several more signings in the coming weeks, as they ready for their initial season. The full schedule is at https://www.westchestersc.com/.

Tyron Woodley First of 120 Elite MMA Athletes Selected in Inaugural Global Fight League Draft

Former world champion welterweight Tyron Woodley made history tonight as the first selection in the six team, 20 round inaugural Global Fight League (GFL) Draft, which took place virtually from Van Wagner Studios in Phoenix. Woodley was selected by Dubai manager Cain Velasquez and coach Javier Mendez, and was followed in the first round by lightweight Sage Northcutt (Los Angeles), middleweight Gegard Mousasi (London), heavyweight Junior Dos Santos (Miami), heavyweight Fabricio Werdum (São Paulo) and lightweight Kevin Lee (New York). London selected strawweight Josefine Knutsson in the third round, the first woman selected in the co-ed league and one of five women chosen in the first four rounds of the draft.

The new team-based MMA organization launching in April 2025 had its six teams: Dubai, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and São Paulo, complete their initial rosters during the three hour livestreamed event.

The complete draft list per round and by weight class can be seen at the following link:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qjJY06fZ_E4X8OOJu_2Q0pHjnQ0Oz-iBHLHwjtysF6Y/edit?usp=sharing

Additional details for the league will be available in the weeks to come.

Global Fight League Unveils Details For Friday’s Virtual Draft

The Global Fight League (GFL), the new team-based MMA organization launching in April 2025, today announced additional details for the first-ever GFL Virtual Draft, which will take place this Friday, January 24th, at 8 PM EST. Fans worldwide catch tune in to watch the selection LIVE on MMA GFL’s official platforms: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Twitch, plus the show will also air on the social channels of DAZN and PPV.com, the Triller TV app, and Rumble. The list of selection eligible athletes can be at www.mmagfl.com/athletes

Broadcast live from Van Wagner Studios in Phoenix, the GFL Draft will feature Founder and Commissioner Darren Owen with insights from renowned MMA analysts and personalities: Robin Black, Caroline Pearce, Alex Wendling, Mike Goldberg, and Brendan Schaub, all revealing selections for six inaugural teams—Dubai, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and São Paulo. There will also beinsights from team managers and coaches:

  • Dubai: Manager Cain Velasquez with Coach Javier Mendez
  • London: Manager Luke Barnatt with Coach Carl Prince
  • Los Angeles: Manager Wanderlei Silva with Coach Rafael Cordeiro
  • Miami: Manager Thiago Alves with Coach Conan Silveira
  • New York: Coach Ray Longo; Manager TBD
  • São Paulo: Manager Lyoto Machida with Coach Andre Pederneiras

The GFL enters Friday’s selection with over 420 athletes from 67 countries competing for 120 coveted roster spots, featuring a mix of MMA legends and rising stars such as Tyron Woodley, Paige VanZant, Anthony Pettis,Yoel Romero, Mauricio Rua, Ilima-Lei MacFarlane, Junior Dos Santos, Aspen Ladd and Marlon Moraes, who also serves as Head of the GFL Athlete Association. Athletes not selected in the draft will remain eligible for GFL competition in 2025, but will not be exclusively bound to competing in the inaugural season.

Additional details for the league will be available in the weeks following this Friday’s Draft Event.

Westchester Soccer Club Adds Three More Players For Their Inaugural Season in USL League One

Westchester Soccer Club today added three more players to their roster for their inaugural season in USL League One. The three, midfielders Bryan Vazquez and Andrew Jean-Baptiste and defender Joel Johnson, join a growing mix of veterans and young, athletic talent as WSC readies to officially open their first season on March 8 in Greenville, SC against Greenville Triumph SC with their home opener at The Stadium at Memorial Park against Rhode Island SC on April 27. All three contracts are subject to approval by the league.

‘One of the key elements of our club will be making sure we have both depth and experience, and our latest three signees continue to add to both areas for us,’ said Simon Baines, Sporting Director of WSC. “All three will fit well into the structure we are creating.”

The three newest players include:

Andrew Jean-Baptiste (Brooklyn, NY) joins Westchester SC with over a decade of professional and international experience, most recently as center-back for Valour FC. Baptiste starred at the University of Connecticut, earning 2011 Big East Conference Defensive Player of the Year before being selected 8th overall by the Portland Timbers in the first round of the 2012 MLS SuperDraft. He played in MLS for Portland, Chivas USA, and the New York Red Bulls from 2012-2015, before heading abroad to join Swedish side Ettan Nyköpings BIS in 2016. In February 2019, Jean-Baptiste continued his European career until 2020, when he joined Canadian Premier League side Valour FC, where has played the past three seasons. Andrew has played internationally for both the Haitian National and US National teams in his career as well.

Joel Johnson Alajarín (Torrent, Valencia) is a right-back who spent the last eight seasons in USL League One, most recently for Charlotte Independence last season. Prior to his USL time, Johnson played on virtually every level of professional soccer in Spain, coming up through the club system of Valencia FC before joining Real Madrid C and then with Real Jaénand CD Buñol. He has also played internationally as a member of the Liberian National team since 2016.

Bryan Vazquez officially joins the professional ranks with the club having previously made one appearance as an amateur signing for FC Cincinnati 2 of MLS NEXT Pro during the 2024 season. The 18-year-old midfielder has previously made two appearances for the El Salvador U-20 Men’s National Team at the 2024 Concacaf U-20 Championship.

These are the newest additions to a roster that already include a strong group of Americans with USL experience, including: wing back Kemar Lawrence, fullback Samory Powder, midfielder Conor McGlynn and defender Stephen Payne and a trio of Dutch natives in midfielders Daniel Bouman, Dean Diego Guezen and striker Koen Blommestijn

The club will be announcing several more signings in the coming weeks, as they ready for their initial season this coming April. The full schedule is at https://www.westchestersc.com/

Global Fight League Unveils Six Inaugural Cities, Marquee Team Managers and Coaches, MMA Legends

The Global Fight League (GFL) is proud to announce the six cities that will serve as the foundation for its inaugural season, along with a roster of world-class team managers, coaches, and the next wave of notable draft eligible-athletes. The first-ever GFL Draft will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, and streamed live on Friday, January 24, 2025 at 8 pm EST. Details on where and how to watch will be announced in the coming days.

Six Inaugural Cities and Legendary Leadership

The inaugural GFL cities and their leadership teams represent a convergence of MMA’s past, present, and future:

  • Los Angeles: Known as a hub and home for world-class gyms and athletes, this city will be led by Manager Wanderlei Silva and Coach Rafael Cordeiro, a legendary duo synonymous with Brazilian MMA excellence.
  • New York: Home to the most sports fans in the world, New York embodies history and grit. Led by legendary Coach Ray Longo, renowned for training champions, the team’s manager will be announced soon.
  • Miami: Where cultural vibrancy meets fight tradition, Miami thrives under Manager Thiago Alves and Coach Conan Silveira, icons of Brazilian and American MMA with roots in the legendary American Top Team.
  • São Paulo: São Paulo embodies the rich heritage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Vale Tudo—the very foundations of modern MMA—guided by former champion Manager Lyoto Machida and legendary Coach André Pederneiras, who has shaped many of the sport’s most iconic athletes.
  • London: Europe’s combat sports capital, London combines tradition and innovation under the leadership of Manager Luke Barnatt and Coach Carl Prince, who bring local and international expertise.
  • Dubai: The rising fight capital of the world, Dubai brings global prestige to the league with Manager Cain Velasquez and Coach Javier Mendez, two legends with a proven track record of creating champions.

Deep, Talented, and Championship Caliber Athlete Draft Pool

The GFL Draft pool is stacked with talent, highlighting a blend of MMA legends and emerging stars. New confirmed names include:

  • Mauricio “Shogun” Rua
  • Yoel Romero
  • Chad Mendes
  • Renan Barao
  • Douglas Lima
  • Ovince Saint Preux
  • Todd Duffee

Additional athletes will be revealed in the days leading up to the Draft, promising a competitive lineup that spans continents and showcases the league’s global reach.
Live Draft Event: January 24, 2025

The first-ever GFL Draft will take place live on January 24, 2025, setting the stage for an innovative team-based competition model in MMA. Managers and coaches will select athletes to represent their cities, creating rosters that blend veteran expertise with emerging talent.

“This league is built on respect for the sport’s history and a vision for its future,” said Darren Owen, GFL Commissioner. “Our cities, managers, and coaches reflect the very best of MMA, and our draft will kick off an unforgettable first season.”

360 Hoops is Coming to New Jersey as Iron Peak SportsPartners with Innovative Sports Experience

Renowned as Central Jersey’s premier destination for sports, fun, and healthy competition, Iron Peak Sports & Events is the ideal partner for 360 Hoops to debut its revolutionary new game in the state. With perfectly aligned missions, Iron Peak is excited to introduce 360 Hoops to the New Jersey community in 2025.

Played on a circular court, 360 Hoops reimagines traditional basketball with a dynamic twist. At its core is the patented 360 Hoop, a three-in-one design that lets players score on any of three baskets. The innovative 3v3v3 format sparks teamwork, strategy, and nonstop excitement. With adjustable hoop heights, every player can experience the thrill of a slam dunk, making the game exciting, accessible, and unforgettable for all.

“Partnering with 360 Hoops allows us to introduce an entirely new and exciting experience to our community and athletes in New Jersey,” said Gregg Wilke, Owner of Iron Peak Sports & Events. “The game is designed to be fun for players of all ages, and we can’t wait to see how it brings out the kid in everyone.”

On February 21, Iron Peak Sports & Events will host a Ribbon Cutting Open Gym to celebrate its exciting new partnership with 360 Hoops, offering the community a chance to experience the groundbreaking game firsthand. This free event, running from 6 PM to 8 PM, invites local athletes ages 8 and up, parents, coaches, and teachers to join in the fun, play, and be part of an unforgettable experience.

Two 360 Hoops tournaments are already scheduled for 2025. These two-day events will take place on July 26-27 and August 23-24, with each player guaranteed eight games throughout the tournaments. Plans are also underway to launch a 360 Hoops League in the fall, further expanding opportunities for players to engage with the innovative sport.

“We’re thrilled to team up with Iron Peak Sports & Events to bring 360 Hoops to New Jersey,” said Anthony Gomez, Co-Founder of 360 Hoops. “This partnership is a natural fit, as we share a commitment to creating unique, engaging sports experiences that not only bring people into a first-class facility, but also connect with the local community. We can’t wait to see how 360 Hoops will bring energy, excitement, and a sense of unity to athletes and families across the state.”

The game-changer of 360 Hoops? It reimagines how space is used. One traditional basketball court can now host up to five 360 Hoops courts, allowing 60 players to compete in the same area that typically fits just 10. With its portable design and focus on inclusivity, 360 Hoops is revolutionizing how sports complexes and communities engage with young athletes.

But the impact doesn’t stop there. Iron Peak Sports & Events and 360 Hoops have a bold vision to bring the 360 Hoops Experience to every elementary and middle school in the area. Starting in the fall of 2025, schools will have the opportunity to integrate 360 Hoops into their physical education and afterschool programs in two-week rotations. Additionally, each school can host an all-day fundraiser, benefiting the school or a chosen charity.

With this groundbreaking partnership in place, 360 Hoops is poised to expand into new markets across the United States, bringing this innovative experience to players everywhere.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring 360 Hoops to New Jersey and offer a whole new level of fun and excitement for kids in the area,” said Coach Shane Brey, Co-Founder of 360 Hoops. “This partnership with Iron Peak Sports & Events marks the start of something special. We can’t wait to see how it brings kids together, sparks their competitive spirit, and creates unforgettable moments. The future of 360 Hoops is bright with Iron Peak.”Iron Peak serves as a comprehensive destination for both sports clubs and community events. From high-level training opportunities to local competitions and family-friendly events, our facility is designed to cultivate a sense of belonging and connection among all who walk through our doors. Whether you’re competing, training, or enjoying the events, Iron Peak is where community and sports come together in an atmosphere of excitement and energy.