Category Archives: Major Sports

Harlem Globetrotters Tap cllct To Bring 100 Years Of Basketball Greatness To Life Through Collectible Culture

Leaders in breaking barriers and making history, the world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ and cllct, the culture-first collectibles company, together announce a new partnership in advance of the Globetrotters’ 100th anniversary season. The collaboration launches a season-long journey through basketball history, wrapped in storytelling, nostalgia, and exclusive collectible drops that bridge generations. The official tip off of the Globetrotters Centennial season will be on Sunday, December 14th at Madison Square Garden, with the remaining tour schedule to be announced in September.

The first collaboration to drop is the 100th Anniversary Uniform Reveal with a one-of-a-kind commemorative mini jersey. The high-quality, serialized miniature jersey (12”-18”) replica of the 100th anniversary uniform, designed with an autograph-friendly space, comes in its own custom retail packaging and includes post-game autograph rights. 

“As we celebrate 100 years of defining basketball and sport greatness, we wanted a partner who could help us tap into what we really are, a global cultural movement,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “cllct brings a fresh approach to the collectibles space through custom product development and storytelling that’s smart, strategic and deeply connected to how audiences consume and collect culture. This is about honoring our legacy in a way that feels just as original as the day we started.”

From game-worn artifacts to never-before-seen content and fan-first experiences, the collaboration will spotlight the cultural moments, legendary players, and global impact that made the Globetrotters an icon, not just in basketball, but across music, film, television, and fashion. It’s all coming to life in a format built for today’s fan: collectible, ownable, and unforgettable.

“Collectibles are storytelling in physical form,” said Darren Rovell, founder. “The Globetrotters are one of the few sports brands that transcended the game and became a global cultural force. We’re proud to help celebrate that by giving fans the chance to hear those stories, collect real moments, real history, and real emotion in ways that speak to today’s culture.”

At the heart of the partnership is collectible culture – a booming movement redefining how fans connect with history. For a brand like the Globetrotters – whose story is packed with social impact, trailblazing performances, and generational influence, there’s never been a better moment to remix the past into the now.  

Throughout the season, fans will be able to access a curated stream of limited-edition collectibles tied to major milestone occasions, tour stops, iconic players, and untold stories, both physical and digital, both nostalgic and never-before-seen. Each drop will serve as a time capsule, letting fans relive a moment or discover one for the first time.

This is 100 years of innovation, showmanship, and cultural power completely reimagined for a new generation.

Harlem Globetrotters To Tip Off 100th Season With Special One Day Event At MSG On December 14

Leaders in breaking barriers and making history, the world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ today announced that the tipoff of the Globetrotters Centennial season will take place with a special game at The World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden (MSG), on Sunday December 14 at 12:00 pm. This unique presentation will feature new in-game, fan friendly events, the largest gathering of Globetrotters athletes past and present, limited-edition collectibles and memorabilia, and a host of other elements that will make the day unlike anything else fans of any age have seen before. Tickets for The Centennial Tipoff Game will go on sale to The General Public on Wednesday August 27th at noon, following a two-day presale for MSG special subscribers. 

Individual game tickets will go on sale August 27 at noon and can be purchased at the Ticketmaster Box Office at Madison Square Garden (4 Penn Plaza) and online at www.ticketmaster.com. For discounted rates for groups of nine or more, please contact the Group Sales Department at 212-465-6080 or Group.Sales@msg.com. Accessible and companion seats are available via the Accessibility Services Department at 888-609-7599 or AccessibilityServices@msg.com. 

The Centennial Tip off will precede the full kickoff of the Globetrotters 100th Anniversary World Tour which will begin in late December, with dates, locations and ticket information to be announced in September.

“Madison Square Garden…which is billed as The World’s Most Famous Arena… has hosted some of the most iconic events in sports and pop culture history. We are honored to have the World Famous Harlem Globetrotters kick off our Centennial season at this iconic venue,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “From breaking the NBA color barrier with alums like Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton signing a pro contract as a member of the New York Knicks or courting future Hall of Famers like Wilt Chamberlain and Connie Hawkins, or Curly Neal and Meadowlark Lemon dazzling sellout crowds, to ushering women into professional basketball, to enchanting thousands around the world as the first team to globalize the game of basketball, to our current group of men and women who are stars on the court and on every screen, the Globetrotters are unparalleled in their reach, impact, awareness and in what they stand for as ‘Ambassadors of Goodwill.’ This special day will tip off an amazing year for the organization, and we are looking forward to filling MSG with both first-time fans and many who are coming back to again experience our magic in a new, re-envisioned way.” 

Included in the day will be:

  • The participation of over 60 current Globetrotters athletes creating the largest ‘Magic Circle” in Globetrotter history, all wearing a new Centennial uniform created by celebrity designer Jeff Hamilton
  • The first-time use of special “Gold Ball” moments that highlight the history of innovating the sport that the Globetrotters have brought to millions worldwide. This limited-edition Gold Ball from Spalding will also be available for purchase at the event,
  • Special appearances by Globetrotters alumni and celebrities,  
  • A special postgame fan celebration with access, autographs and other special moments
  • There will also be exclusive New York edition collectibles, new partner product launches for those in attendance including elevated apparel utilizing the special 100 year creative and unique collaborations.

Full details on the day will be announced in the coming weeks.

Indianapolis Colts Season Ticket Members To Receive FanCash to Enhance Gameday Experience at Lucas Oil Stadium

Select Indianapolis Colts season ticket members will receive FanCash as part of a groundbreaking partnership with Fanatics Sportsbook to enhance the cashless experience at Lucas Oil Stadium. 

As a Sportsbook Partner of the Colts, Fanatics Sportsbook will distribute nearly $1 million in FanCash to Colts season ticket members this season. This innovative partnership in the sports world will give customers the ability to use the Fanatics loyalty currency to buy Colts merch or even a hot dog during halftime at Lucas Oil Stadium.*

While Fanatics Sportsbook customers have long enjoyed the benefits of FanCash, this exclusive offer now extends those rewards directly to Colts season ticket members.  Beginning August 21, 2025, select Colts season ticket members will be rewarded exclusively with $100 in FanCash that can be used at the Colts Pro Shop, redeemed in the Fanatics Sportsbook app, or converted into Colts Cash for in-stadium concessions and more. Season ticket members will receive unprecedented cashless benefits and redefine the fan experience at Lucas Oil Stadium.

“We’re excited about further rewarding our customers’ fandom by giving them the opportunity to buy food and merch with their FanCash at Lucas Oil Stadium,” said Ari Borod, Chief Business Officer, Fanatics Betting and Gaming. “The Colts have a history of innovation and their season ticket members have embraced the cashless stadium experience with a rewards program that will integrate FanCash and allow our customers to buy merch, concessions and more, while enjoying the game.”

Fanatics Sportsbook customers in Indiana will also enjoy enhanced rewards every time the Colts take the field, like FanCash multipliers and unique profit boosts. Customers can also use FanCash to enter sweepstakes for a chance to win premium prizes including tickets, field passes and unforgettable team experiences, while getting profit boost tokens for use on the Sportsbook.  

“We’re excited to partner with Fanatics Sportsbook to offer Colts season ticket members a new way to earn rewards and enhance their game days at Lucas Oil Stadium,” said Roger VanDerSnick, Colts Chief Commercial Officer. “Now, our fans can redeem Fanatics FanCash on the Fanatics Sportsbook App or convert it to Colts Cash for use at the Colts Pro Shop or concession stands throughout Lucas Oil Stadium during the season.”

Fanatics Sportsbook customers are choosing to bet with Fanatics because of the versatility of FanCash and how it brings the Fanatics ecosystem to the forefront. Customers can get up to 10% FanCash on every bet, win or lose. The bigger the odds, the bigger the FanCash rewards that can be used to acquire team merchandise, collectibles, bonus bets, odds boosts, tickets and more. FanCash has become a large part of the Fanatics Sportsbook experience and a major reason for picking Fanatics over the competition.

image: All-Pro Reels

Fanatics Sportsbook And Athlete Livvy Dunne Change The Game With New Football Ad Campaign

Livvy Dunne (photo: Derek Ketella)

Fanatics Sportsbook, the fastest growing sportsbook in America, is rewriting the rules with a series of football ads featuring College National Champion athlete, Fanatics family member, and cultural powerhouse, Livvy Dunne. Just in time for the start of football, the new broadcast and digital series, “Explained by Livvy Dunne,” kicks off with three cinematic ads aimed to stand out in the category.

From a full-sized clawfoot bathtub sitting on the 50-yard line of the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium to eating a turkey leg in the stands and moving across the field on the back of a football blocking sled, Livvy playfully breaks down why customers should switch to Fanatics Sportsbook because of their massive Gameday Guarantee FanCashpromotion, market-leading Fair Play™ protection and their valuable FanCash rewards. Each spot will debut the new tagline, “Winning Hits Different Here,” highlighting Fanatics’ stand out generosity from the category. The “Explained by” series construct will continue this fall as part of a new Fanatics Casino campaign featuring an iconic male spokesperson.

The :30 and :15 spots break the fourth wall with a wink, serving up Fanatics’ latest promos in delightfully surprising ways and will run across linear and digital channels in priority markets. Directed by Grammy-winning filmmaker Calmatic, known for Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Squabble Up,” the series taps into Fanatics’ cultural influence to reach both new and existing bettors – in a way only Fanatics can.

“As a disruptor brand, Fanatics Sportsbook is rewriting the category playbook. By leveraging the power of Fanatics and working with a cultural force like Livvy, we’re telling our story in a way that expands our reach with existing betting audiences – and speaks to new ones, too,” said Fanatics Betting and Gaming Chief Marketing Officer, Selena Kalvaria. “With Livvy, we have a national champion showing up in unexpected ways to explain what makes Fanatics Sportsbook different, and more rewarding, for sports fans.”

The ads highlight Fanatics Sportsbook’s industry-leading offerings, including:

  • Gameday Guarantee for every college and pro football game day – 26 days total from now through October – where new customers will get up to $100 in FanCash back if their first football bet loses on game day and existing customers will get rewards as well*;
  • Fair Play™ protection that now protects all pro football player prop bets and refunds or pays out as a win if your player is ruled out due to a first-half injury;
  • FanCash can now be redeemed on apparel, exclusive shopping experiences, Bonus Bets, profit boosts, Casino Credits, tickets, live card breaks and fixed-price trading card purchases on Fanatics Collect, and more across the Fanatics ecosystem.

“As a proud member of the Fanatics family, I’m excited to partner with Fanatics Sportsbook to welcome more people into the sports world in a fresh way,” said Livvy Dunne. “It’s easy to use, genuinely fun, and makes the whole experience feel more like being part of the game.”

The campaign is live today, August 18, across all major TV networks, OLV, OOH, audio and podcasts, paid and organic social, and a variety of influencer partnerships that will get all sports fans ready for game day. It will run throughout the entire football season, starting with a major launch during College Football Week 1 and Pro Football Weeks 1-5, with major pulses around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the Postseason, as well as the Road to the Big Game.

As the brand continues to disrupt the sports betting industry, Fanatics Sportsbook is doubling down on what it does best: delivering a premium, fan-first experience that goes way beyond the bet and is powered by culture, storytelling, and the next generation of athlete-partners.

The work represents the first campaign with new creative agency partner Anomaly.

Event Tickets Center Named Official Secondary Ticketing Partner and Resale Marketplace of TCL Team Boxing League

TCL Team Boxing League (“TCL”), the first and only professional boxing league with a team-based ownership model, has announced a dynamic new partnership with Event Tickets Center (www.eventticketscenter.com), naming the platform the Official Secondary Ticketing Partner and Resale Marketplace  of the league through the end of the 2025 season. Event Tickets Center will have category exclusivity and the rights to leverage TCL league and team IP across its marketing and promotional efforts.      

The partnership started with over a dozen events remaining in the      successful      3rd season of TCL.  They will ride TCL’s current momentum      into tonight’s Semi-Final playoffs match ups between the Phoenix Fury vs. Philadelphia Smoke and the NYC Attitude vs. Las Vegas Hustle. And in two weeks, Event Tickets Center      will be visibly present at the MegaBrawl Championships taking place on August 31st in Glendale, Arizona. The partnership combines ticketing convenience with wide-ranging brand visibility in one of the fastest-growing properties in combat sports.

The arrangement includes several key elements designed to maximize brand visibility across multiple platforms. In terms of broadcast integration on Merit TV, the agreement features Event Tickets Center commercials, in-broadcast brand features, broadcast billboards, and in-ring announcer mentions. 

The partnership ensures prominent logo placement in the ring, as well as TCL’s LED entrance wall.  A highlight element of the Event Tickets Center partnership is the naming rights to the “On Deck” fighter warm-up zone which will be known as “Best Seat in the House”. Additionally, Event Tickets Center will receive social and digital media components which include a weekly branded post across TCL’s social platforms, along with integrated storytelling and campaign support using TCL teams and intellectual property.

“This partnership is a great match widening our reach and provides greater access to TCL for fans,” said Kevin Cassidy, CEO of Team Combat Entertainment. “Event Tickets Center makes it easier for fans to be part of the live action while gaining valuable exposure across TCL’s growing media footprint. It’s a win for everyone involved.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with Team Combat League and bring fans closer to one of the most exciting formats in professional sports,” said Abby Croell, head of Brand & Partnerships      of Event Tickets Center. “TCL’s fast-paced, team-based structure is electrifying, and our platform is all about delivering seamless access to that kind of must-see entertainment. This collaboration lets us connect passionate fight fans with unforgettable live experiences.”

To catch all the action of TCL Team Boxing League’s third season, tune into Merit TV and visit www.teamcombatleague.com for schedules, tickets, and team info.

Harlem Globetrotters, Designer Jeff Hamilton Announce Collaboration To Create Centennial Uniform

Leaders in breaking barriers and making history, the world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ today announced a collaboration with legendary designer, Jeff Hamilton to create the organization’s Centennial look, including a redesign of its uniform for the historic season. Hamilton, whose work with a host of organizations, especially NBA teams and athletes, has made him one of the most sought-after designers in the industry, will lead the creative for the Globetrotters as the 2026 Centennial season unfolds.

“Our 100-year anniversary has provided the perfect opportunity to refresh our uniform. Our goal is to create a look that better reflects our iconic history, leverages the equity that we’ve built up over the years, while also doing something that is fresh and appealing to our global audience,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “Partnering with Jeff Hamilton, one of the sporting world’s most legendary designers, is an opportunity to build something truly special for our centennial and beyond.”

“While we have worked to design fashion pieces with some of the biggest and most storied franchises in sports, especially in the NBA, this collaborative partnership with the Globetrotters is both special and will be one of our most unique,” Hamilton said. “There is no organization with such positive global appeal than the Globetrotters, and our pieces will be both reflective of their history in sports, pop culture and diplomacy, as well as their appeal to an audience that will learn about their story for the first time. It will be one of the must haves for the world of fashion and sport as their 100th season unfolds.”

Hamilton is perhaps best known for the memorabilia he has designed for stars of the NBA and is himself considered to be a part of the sport’s history. At the 1997 All Star game, when a panel selected the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, each honoree received a unique NBA-commissioned Hamilton leather jacket to wear to the ceremony. Hamilton also designed the commemorative jackets 25 years later when the NBA announced a 75th Anniversary Team to honor the 75 greatest players in NBA history. Hamilton designed jackets for Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, as well as the 2000-2002 Los Angeles Lakers. Celebrities who have commissioned Hamilton pieces include: Madonna, Michael Jackson, George Michael, Vanilla Ice, Guns n’ Roses, A$AP Rocky, Bill Clinton, and Nelson Mandela. Hamilton’s designs for the NBA continue to influence the designers of other clothing brands. In 2021, lifestyle brand Converse, released a collection of footwear inspired by Hamilton’s best-known NBA championship jackets.

In addition to the Centennial uniform, Hamilton will be working on a series of fashion collaborations which will roll out throughout the centennial calendar beginning this fall.

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.

AAPB will host All Elite Wrestling for Summer Ballpark Tour Featuring AEW Stars live in stadiums

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) are joining forces to bring an electrifying mix of professional baseball and wrestling entertainment to fans across the country this summer. AEW talent will make in-person appearances at AAPB stadiums as part of a multi-market activation blending America’s pastime with one of the most dynamic forces in global sports entertainment.

AEW stars will participate in VIP first pitches, live game broadcast interviews, in-stadium autograph and photo sessions, help lead the 7th inning stretch alongside team emcees, and deliver other exhilarating moments throughout the stadiums. These ballpark experiences are designed to create unforgettable moments for fans of all ages.

“This partnership is about creating energy and excitement showcasing the American Association not as just a great baseball experience, but a great entertainment experience,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “AEW is one of the most recognizable brands in sports entertainment, and bringing their talent into our ballparks adds another layer of fun and fan engagement to the AAPB experience. It’s bold, it’s different, and it’s a perfect fit for how we see the future of live sports.”

The 2025 AEW x AAPB ballpark tour includes:

  • July 21 and 22 – Fargo, N.D. (American Association All Star Game: WWE Hall of Famer and AEW star Jeff Jarrett along with AEW star Wheeler Yuta
  • July 24 – Geneva, Ill. (Kane County Cougars): AEW stars Jay Lethal and Satnam Singh Bhamara
  • July 24 – Gary, Ind. (Gary SouthShore RailCats): The Outrunners

“We’re excited to partner with the American Association and bring AEW’s powerhouse roster directly to fans in some of the most passionate baseball markets in the country,” said Chris Terranova, Vice President of Consumer Products at AEW. “These appearances are about more than just a moment, they’re about connecting with communities, giving back to fans, and creating memories that blend the action of the ring with the magic of the diamond.”

All activations will be featured across AAPB broadcasts and social media platforms.

For tickets and more information, visit aabaseball.com or that above team’s websites.

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.

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

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: