Category Archives: Sidebar Featured

KU Cancer Center to receive research support from agreement leveraging KU Basketball student-athletes, ShotTracker and the V Foundation

While Kansas is known for many basketball legends, the sport will be a community builder like never before at the University of Kansas this fall. Before a single game tips, Jayhawks will be playing for a new cause — cancer research.


The University of Kansas Cancer Center is poised to be part of a unique Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal that will benefit cancer research and engage KU basketball student-athletes. Seven KU Men’s and Women’s basketball players will serve as brand ambassadors and engage in a fundraising campaign to fight cancer. Made possible by Kansas City-area company ShotTracker and The V Foundation for Cancer Research, this novel agreement and accompanying campaign launch this week.


“We’re incredibly thankful to The V Foundation for Cancer Research, ShotTracker and KU Athletics for coming together in support of this campaign,” said Dr. Roy Jensen, Vice Chancellor and Director of the KU Cancer Center. “Their generosity and shared belief in the power of cancer research make a real difference. Funding like this fuels the work our scientists do every day and brings us closer to better treatments, earlier detection and, ultimately, cures.”


The seven KU Men’s and Women’s Basketball student-athletes participating are Flory Bidunga, Elle Evans, Elmarko Jackson, Jamari McDowell, Lilly Meister, S’Mya Nichols and Regan Williams. The campaign, known as ’Jayhawks Victory Over Cancer’ runs through December 31.  All of the funds raised will go directly to the KU Cancer Center to support research via a grant from The V Foundation for Cancer Research.


The student-athletes will be featured on a variety of channels highlighting their dedication to basketball and to cancer research, all while encouraging donations to the KU Cancer Center through the V Foundation. KU basketball players will use ShotTracker technology to showcase their dedication on the court while inspiring donations that fund lifesaving cancer research.


“In the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) in intercollegiate athletics, one important element often overshadowed by headlines about large payments is that many NIL efforts support meaningful causes and nonprofits student-athletes are passionate about,” said Davyeon Ross, co-founder and chief executive officer of ShotTracker. “’Jayhawks Victory Over Cancer’ is a powerful example. We’re proud to partner with The University of Kansas Cancer Center, the V Foundation and KU Athletics to create impact through this unique ‘NIL for Good’ program. The return on investment goes far beyond money. It’s about improving the lives of hundreds of cancer patients, setting a new national standard for what NIL can achieve across the country and leveraging innovative technology to drive accountability.”

While soliciting funds for philanthropy is not a new idea, this campaign is harnessing the power of an NIL deal to support cancer research. The idea is that Jayhawk fans everywhere will learn more about the importance of cancer research and support that cause. 

“This campaign brings together our athletes, fans, donors and partners — the V Foundation, ShotTracker and Kansas Athletics — for a common cause: advancing cancer research at The University of Kansas Cancer Center,” said Dan Martin, President, KU Endowment. “It’s a powerful example of what we can achieve when we unite through philanthropy.”

The V Foundation for Cancer Research, in operation since 1993, is named for Jim Valvano, the legendary North Carolina State University men’s basketball coach, ESPN commentator and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The V Foundation has funded nearly $400 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory committee. 

“This is a powerful collaboration, and the V Foundation is proud to partner with the University of Kansas Athletics, ShotTracker, and the KU Cancer Center,” said Susanna Greer, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of the V Foundation. “The V Foundation funds bold, innovative cancer research at the top research centers nationwide to make a long-lasting impact. When Jayhawk athletes and fans unite, they are empowering the best and brightest scientists at the KU Cancer Center. Their support is critical to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® by driving discoveries, improving care and ultimately saving lives.”

A nationally recognized leader in the fight to treat and cure cancer, the KU Cancer Center is working to bring elite cancer research and care to Kansas. “Our vision is for The University of Kansas Cancer Center to be a beacon of hope and a global destination for both those with cancer and for scientists and clinicians seeking to cure cancer,” said Dr. Jensen. “Patients treated at National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers have a 25% greater chance of survival compared to other cancer centers because of the enhanced relationship between patient care and research. Supporting the work here will benefit not just Kansas but the entire region.”

“We are proud to be a part of this amazing initiative to help the fight against cancer by joining our great partners including ShotTracker, the KU Cancer Center and the V Foundation,” said Jason Booker, Deputy Athletics Director for the University of Kansas Athletics. “This initiative is in direct alignment with one of our core community engagement pillars through ’Jayhawks for A Cure‘ related to cancer awareness.  It’s a perfect fit to use our platforms to showcase the impact that the KU Cancer Center has on our region.”

Donations may be made to: www.v.org/jayhawksvictoryovercancer

Washington Commanders, Atlanta Falcons Team Up This Weekend For Fourth Annual Coach Knapp Stair Climb Campaign

The Coach Knapp Memorial Fund, named in honor of veteran NFL assistant coach Greg Knapp, dedicated to educating drivers on the dangers of distracted driving, reduce the number of distracted driving related deaths, and promote distracted driving awareness reform, will return to Atlanta Sunday as both the Washington Commanders and the Atlanta Falcons will run the Mercedes Benz Stadium stairs prior to their matchup as the latest participants in the fourth season of the “Coach Knapp Stair Climb.” The two teams will also be joined by the Atlanta chapter of Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) for the climb.

“Knapper was not only a great coach who I had the pleasure of working with on multiple teams, he was a great mentor to all of his QBs, many rising coaches and touched the lives of all that knew him. He is the definition of a great teammate and to this day, I run the stairs before games since doing it with him years ago,” said Commanders Head Coach Dan Quinn. “The Commanders coaches and staff are pumped to join the Falcons for the climb once again this year. We dedicate this day to Greg and the Coach Knapp Memorial Fund. We look forward to continuing to raise money and awareness to combat distracted driving and honor his life in such a meaningful and impactful way.”

This year’s initiative started during the preseason led by Ripon College, Lenoir-Rhyne University and the Los Angeles Rams, followed by the Green Bay Packers who climbed the Lambeau Field steps prior to their week 1 matchup. Over 500 coaches, players and staff will be participating in various forms on game days.

The fund, which has raised over $300,000 to date already, was created by Greg’s wife, Charlotte, and close friend and agent, the late Jeff Sperbeck, to honor the legacy of Greg Knapp who tragically passed away in July 2021 after being hit by a distracted driver while he was bicycling. Coach Knapp was known for climbing the stadium stairs before every single NFL game he coached over his 25 season career. All will be tagged #knappstairclimb on social platforms.

In honor of Coach Knapp, NFL coaches, players, executives and alumni will participate in raising funds and awareness at each NFL stadium prior to team warm ups. Teams confirmed to participate in the stair climb include: the Packers, Rams, Commanders, Falcons, Dolphins and 49ers as well as Fordham University, Syracuse University, Sacramento State, San Jose State, The University of Houston, Lenoir-Rhyne University and Ripon College. Additional participants will be announced in the coming weeks.

At the time of his passing, Knapp was recently named Passing Game Coordinator of the New York Jets under head coach Robert Saleh, after serving as an assistant coach for over a quarter of a century with the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders, Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. Known as a “quarterback whisperer,” Greg coached some of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history helping chart the careers of many young athletes with kindness, humor and trust.

Fans, athletes, and coaches at any level can also participate wherever is most convenient to them across the country, such as apartment building stairs or a high school sports stadium. Images will be shared on various social channels.

To learn more on how you can get involved, details can be found at https://www.knappmemorial.org/stairclimb

ShotTracker Announces Expansion Into Division 2 and Division 3 Schools and Update on Latest NCAA Partnerships

ShotTracker, the revolutionary AI-powered sports analytics platform transforming how teams capture and visualize performance data, today unveiled a comprehensive platform designed to engage with the added technological and data needs for Division 2 and Division 3 men’s and women’s basketball programs, the first time the company’s modified tech on the bench platforms will be available to schools outside Division 1, as well as their latest renewals and additions of partner schools.

‘We spent the late spring and summer in the field, listening and learning not just from our wide range of partner schools, but from basketball professionals and technologists who continue to help programs and individuals find an edge for success.  What came out was a growing need for schools outside of Division I to enhance their technology in cost-efficient ways that still helped them develop and recruit, and our announcement today for those programs is also reflective of that time. While schools below D1 have their own special needs, those coaches yearning for ways to improve are no less strong or less competitive, and we are excited to roll out this offering for those set of potential new partners as well,” said Davyeon Ross, Co-Founder and President of ShotTracker. “In addition to this special version of their products to Division 2 and 3 men’s and women’s programs for the first time, ShotTracker continues to expand its relationships across the NCAA.  These new and enhanced partnerships are the result of all that time of reflection and development.”  

Among the latest returning and new schools to expand the roster of ShotTracker partnerships include: the LSU, Indiana University, Murray State University, UNC Charlotte men’s programs and Brigham Young University, UNC Charlotte, Murray State University, University of Colorado, St. Bonaventure and UCLA women’s program. All of which will be adding various elements of the ShotTracker offerings with Helix, Hype, Scout or Pulse systems, or upgrading their initial partnerships. 

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 as well as the July addition of FanThreeSixty as a new strategic partner.   That expansion brings the number of ShotTracker partner schools to nearly sixty, with more coming later this year.

Caldwell University Athletics To Once Again Produce Bilingual Broadcast To Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month September 24

Returning after a successful first year in 2024, the Caldwell University Athletics department will produce a bilingual broadcast of the women’s soccer contest vs. the University of Bridgeport on Wednesday, September 24, at 4 p.m., live streamed on the CACC Network. Play-by-play announcer Trevor Spinelli ’25 will be joined by graduate men’s soccer standout Jorge Gutierrez (Zaragoza, España), who will provide color commentary in both English and Spanish.

The game, available for free on Caldwell’s channel on the CACC Network, represents a significant portion of the department’s celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, which begins Sept. 15 and continues until Oct. 15. Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes and honors the histories, cultures, and peoples that make up the varied, powerful, and beautiful Latinx/e communities throughout our nation.

Gutierrez, a top defender on the Caldwell squad, will help guide English and Spanish-language viewers through the contest, which will pit two teams with numerous players of Hispanic descent.

Caldwell, the 2024 CACC runners up, is 1-0-1 to date and opens CACC play today vs. Dominican at 3:30 p.m. at Caldwell Athletic Field.

American Association Partners with LingoPal to Broadcast Miles Wolff Cup Final Games in Multiple Languages

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) today announced a groundbreaking partnership with LingoPal to broadcast the 2025 Miles Wolff Cup Final games in Spanish, Hindi, and Japanese, in addition to the league’s traditional English coverage.

Fans worldwide can tune in live on YouTube to experience the excitement of the AAPB Miles Wolff Cup Final in their preferred language. This initiative reinforces the AAPB’s commitment to growing baseball’s reach globally, innovation, and ensuring its championship is welcoming and accessible to diverse audiences.

“Baseball is a global sport, and the Miles Wolff Cup Final should be enjoyed by fans everywhere without language being a barrier,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “Partnering with LingoPal allows us to connect with international fans in an entirely new way, amplifying the energy of our championship while honoring language and cultural diversity.” The multilingual broadcasts will be available for free through the American Association’s official platform aabaseball.tv, with live commentary delivered in each of the selected languages. More platforms may be added throughout the series. Schedules, links, and supplemental coverage updates will be shared on the league’s website and through its social channels.

Harlem Globetrotters Unveil Dynamic New Uniform Looks For The 2026 100th Anniversary Tour

The World-Famous, Harlem Globetrotters today unveiled a new uniform series for their Centennial season, three distinct red, white and blue uniforms designed by celebrated sports designer, Jeff Hamilton, which will tie elements of the tour today to the vast history and legacy of the team. The three uniforms will debut at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, December 14 and then will continue on a daily alternating cadence throughout the 2026 Global Tour season.

“From the Chicago streets to arenas in over 125+ countries, the Harlem Globetrotters have been donning the Red, White & Blue for 100 straight years, turning every jersey into a badge of swagger, showmanship, and history,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “Jeff Hamilton has taken all aspects of that legacy and developed a series of three unique looks that each tell their own piece of our history, and we are looking forward to seeing how fans old and new enjoy our Centennial look as part of a newly reimagined Globetrotter experience around the world.”

‘The Globetrotters challenged us to come up with a look that could not just embody their history, but would tell a vibrant and literally colorful story of their present and their future for fans around the world,’ said Hamilton. “We think these three uniforms, the first of several fashion collaborations we will be working on for the Centennial, help achieve those goals, and will be part of the must have of any basketball fan of any age in 2026 and beyond.”

The three bold designs will each feature Red, White and Blue as base colors, as well as the five stars that help define Globetrotters history, and are also featured in the team’s Centennial logo. Those five stars are an homage to the original five members of the Globetrotters, Walter ‘Toots’ Wright, Byron ‘Fat’ Long, Willis ‘Kid’ Oliver, Andy Washington, and Al ‘Runt’ Pullins.

The three designs will be:

The White Uniform- “The World-Famous Edition”

For 100 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have been recognized around the globe as the World-Famous icons of basketball entertainment. This jersey celebrates that unmistakable identity — a symbol of showmanship, style, and a name known in every corner of the world.

The Red Uniform- “The Tour Edition”

Since 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have toured around the world, bringing their game to fans in 125+ countries. This jersey represents the heartbeat of the tour — the miles traveled, the arenas packed with cheers, and the generations of fans, both lifelong and new, who make every stop unforgettable.

The Blue Uniform- “The Ambassador Edition”

Inspired by the Globetrotters’ legacy as true Goodwill Ambassadors, this jersey reflects the team’s mission to bring smiles, connection, and unforgettable moments to communities worldwide. Carrying that mission forward, it honors a legacy of inspiring the next generation wherever the game is played.

The uniforms will be produced by Exxact Sports of New Jersey– the uniform manufacturer and official partner of the Harlem Globetrotters and The Washington Generals, and as part of their work, the Exxact Sports logo will appear as a patch on the front of the jersey.

The North American leg of the tour officially begins Sunday, December 14 at Madison Square Garden with the tour continuing throughout spring 2026. International markets such as France, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Mexico and across Asia are just a few of the many locations the Harlem Globetrotters will be touring in, winter 2026 and running through the remainder of the year.

Revered for their exceptional athleticism, basketball wizardry, and heartwarming interactions with fans of all ages, the current team of elite men and women in this year’s Centennial show will bring a fresh look of gravity-defying dunks and game-changing tricks as well as several never-before-seen elements as the Globetrotters take on their renowned rivals, The Washington Generals.

‘The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour’ Announce Dates And Cities For Their Upcoming Centennial

“The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour” announced the dates and cities today for their upcoming world-wide centennial tour beginning with a special event on Sunday December 14 at Madison Square Garden, with the full tour launching with games in Boston and Pittsburgh on Friday, December 26th and continuing on to 200+ domestic markets and over 125+ markets internationally.

Global tickets will be on sale for a newly reimagined show that will feature never-before- seen basketball excitement and special features integrated into the game for the Centennial season only. The Harlem Globetrotters Citi Pre-Sale Begins Tuesday, September 9, with venue and Ticketmaster pre-sale on Monday, September 15, followed by world-wide sale on Monday, September 22. Fans can request an early access code now at HarlemGlobetrotters.com.

“There are very few brands in any business, let alone sports, that cannot just withstand but grow over the course of 100 years, and the Harlem Globetrotters are on the top of that global list,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “We have challenged ourselves to make sure our business is evolving and reaching the audience wherever they are. And for this year’s tour we want to make sure that there’s something for everyone, from the families and fans that turn out in the thousands every year to those young people just experiencing the work our amazing and talented athletes are doing for the first time. The result will be a basketball and entertainment experience like no other, a literal once in a century event for all to enjoy.”

The team will debut their new 100-year jerseys designed by legendary fashion artist, Jeff Hamilton, honoring a century of global impact, as they face off against their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. Fans can also expect all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®, epic pre-game Magic Pass experiences, a 100 Year Souvenir Ticket and many other new innovations for the “Ambassadors of Basketball.”

The current team of elite men and women, holders of an unprecedented 60+ Guinness World Records, including 18 set just last year, the most of any team in any sport, will bring a fresh look of gravity-defying dunks and game-changing tricks against their renowned rivals, The Washington Generals.

The North American leg of the tour, officially begins Sunday, December 14 with the tour continuing throughout spring 2026. International markets such as France, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Mexico, and across Asia are just a few of the many locations the Harlem Globetrotters will be touring in winter 2026 and running through the remainder of the year. Spalding continues its role as the official global ball partner of the Harlem Globetrotters.

Revered for their exceptional athleticism, basketball wizardry, and heartwarming interactions with fans of all ages, they will captivate audiences with never-before-seen tricks, fan engagement, and heartwarming moments that have become synonymous with the Harlem Globetrotters. Tour schedule and ticket purchase can be found HERE and directly on the Harlem Globetrotters website.

Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets in select markets beginning September 9 – September 14. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com

Green Bay Packers, L.A. Rams Amongst NFL and College Teams Kicking Off Fourth Annual Coach Knapp Stair Climb Campaign

The Coach Knapp Memorial Fund, named in honor of veteran NFL assistant coach Greg Knapp, dedicated to educating drivers on the dangers of distracted driving, reduce the number of distracted driving related deaths, and promote distracted driving awareness reform, today announced its return for a fourth season for this fall’s “Coach Knapp Stair Climb.” This coming weekend, the Green Bay Packers will open the regular season by taking on the Lambeau Field steps before their game with the Detroit Lions.

“Greg Knapp was an A+ human in every sense of the word. He was the kind of coach, colleague, and friend who made everyone around him better — not just on the field, but in life,” said Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. “The Knapp Stair Climb is a meaningful way for all of us in the football community to honor his legacy and the incredible person he was. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the legacy that Greg left behind.”

This year’s initiative started during the preseason led by Ripon College and the Los Angeles Rams. Over 500 coaches, players and staff will be participating in various forms on game days.

The fund, which has raised over $250,000 to date already, was created by Greg’s wife, Charlotte, and close friend and agent, the late Jeff Sperbeck, to honor the legacy of Greg Knapp who tragically passed away in July 2021 after being hit by a distracted driver while he was bicycling. Coach Knapp was known for climbing the stadium stairs before every single NFL game he coached over his 25 season career. All will be tagged #knappstairclimb on social platforms.

In honor of Coach Knapp, NFL coaches, players, executives and alumni will participate in raising funds and awareness at each NFL stadium prior to team warm ups. Teams confirmed to participate in the stair climb include: the Packers, Rams, Commanders, Falcons, Dolphins and 49ers as well as Sacramento State, Lenoir Rhyne and Ripon College. Additional participants will be announced in the coming weeks.

At the time of his passing, Knapp was recently named Passing Game Coordinator of the New York Jets under head coach Robert Saleh, after serving as an assistant coach for over a quarter of a century with the Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos, Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders, Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. Known as a “quarterback whisperer,” Greg coached some of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history helping chart the careers of many young athletes with kindness, humor and trust.

Fans, athletes, and coaches at any level can also participate wherever is most convenient to them across the country, such as apartment building stairs or a high school sports stadium. Images will be shared on various social channels.

To learn more on how you can get involved, details can be found at https://www.knappmemorial.org/stairclimb

Joe Gallant Named Caldwell University ESports Head Coach

Joe Gallant, a pioneer in competitive gaming and esports, with experience leading strategy and competitive operations across the NBA 2K League, Esports Engine, and Major League Gaming, has been named Caldwell University Esports Head Coach, it was announced today by Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark A. Corino.

Gallant, who also leads XGC, a creative agency and execution partner for brands and creators in the sports and gaming industry, was most recently the director of strategy and operations for the National Basketball Association’s NBA 2K League.

Gallant’s other related experience includes stints as the competitive operations lead with ESL FACEIT Group and tournament director at Major League Gaming.

“We are fortunate to have such an experienced professional in the gaming industry as Joe Gallant as our new head esports coach,” said Corino. “He has worked in the highest levels in the industry, immediately raising the level of our esports program as we build on previous success and provide students with top-level coaching to go with our first-class esports arena on campus.”

Caldwell University’s esports program was launched in the Fall of 2019, making waves in the gaming world. Caldwell University provides a platform for students to excel in competitive gaming while fostering academic growth and innovation.

Gallant resides in nearby Montclair, N.J.

Unisom Teams Up with Football Legend Julian Edelman to Help Fantasy Football Fans Get a Better Night’s Rest

Just in time for fantasy football season, Unisom, the #1 doctor and pharmacist recommended over-the-counter nighttime sleep-aid brand, is partnering with three-time Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl LIII MVP, and celebrated former Pro Football wide receiver Julian Edelman to help fans make sound draft picks that’ll keep them sound asleep all season long.

Introducing Sleeper Pickz presented by Unisom, a social media content series where Edelman gives dream draft advice by releasing his top, and under-the-radar, fantasy football picks he predicts are poised to perform this season. Drawing on his pro-level insight and sharp eye for talent, Edelman gives fans the winning edge without the late-night roster stress so they can rest easy while he does the picking.

“I know first hand the stress that fantasy football causes, leaving you tossing and turning all night long,” said Edelman. “That’s why I’m excited to partner with Unisom. Just like their SleepTabs help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep all night, I’m here to help fans rest easier by taking the guesswork out of their fantasy drafts, so they can wake up recharged and ready to dominate their league.”

This partnership supports Unisom’s broader mission to helping consumers discover the magic of sleep. “As a leader in the sleep-aid category, we are set out to ensure everyone has a good night’s rest,” said Nimit Bansal, Brand Lead, Personal Care & Sleep at Unisom. “Partnering with Julian Edelman, who knows what it takes to make game-winning picks, allows us to connect with football fans in a fun, relevant way–reinforcing that even during fantasy season, good sleep is a winning strategy. We believe the power of a magical night’s sleep leads to better performance, whether you’re setting your lineup or tackling a hectic week.”

Buffalo Tops Tampa Bay in Strat-O-Matic Football 2025 Season Simulation

Four runner-up finishes more than 30 years ago is as close as Buffalo has come to winning the football championship. But Western New York just might be celebrating its favorite team’s first title on February 8, as Strat-O-Matic (@strat-o-matic), the market leader in sports simulations, today revealed the results of its full simulation of the 2025 season. In the ultimate game, Buffalo (14-3, A.F.C # 1 playoff seed) defeated Tampa Bay (14-3, best record in the league), 27-13, for the franchise’s crowning moment.

Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow led the circuit in touchdowns (39, tied with Geno Smith of Las Vegas) and yards passing (4,855) to earn the league MVP honors in the simulation. Derrick Henry (1,811 yards) of Baltimore and Saquon Barkley (19 touchdowns) of Philadelphia were among the top runners, while Las Vegas’s Brock Bowers paced in receptions (137) and touchdowns (15) from his tight end spot.

In Strat-O-Matic’s simulation, using team rosters as of September 1, Buffalo defeated Indianapolis, 35-25, and Kansas City, 41-21, en route to the title game. Tampa Bay, the N.F.C. top seed, edged Detroit, 44-41, and throttled Los Angeles, 30-10, on its run to the final. Josh Allen passed for 274 yards and a TD in the championship game.

Other A.F.C. playoff teams included No. 2 Denver (12-5, West champion), No. 3 Pittsburgh (10-7, North champion), No. 4 Indianapolis (9-8, South champion), No. 5 Miami (13-4, Wild Card), No. 6 Kansas City (11-6, Wild Card) and No. 7 Las Vegas (10-7, Wild Card). Over in the N.F.C., postseason berths went to No. 2 Los Angeles (13-4, West champion), No. 3 Green Bay (13-4, North champion), No. 4 Washington (9-8, East champion), No. 5 Arizona (12-5, Wild Card), No. 6 Detroit (11-6, Wild Card), and No. 7 Chicago (9-8, Wild Card).

Leavy Says ‘Make Me Commissioner’ in New Book

Jane Leavy, baseball’s preeminent writer, hardly recognizes the game she loves anymore. Relentless pursuit of competitive edges on and off the field have killed the essential charms of the great game, chewed up some of its best talent, and left fans to root for little more than algorithms yielding fractional advantages and analytically dictated efficiencies.

Now, join Leavy on a behind the scenes road trip through the far corners of the baseball world as she sets out to uncover how the game broke, and to find the people and the ideas that just might bring it back in Make Me Commissioner: I Know What’s Wrong With Baseball and How to Fix It.

Tough, comic, and insightful, this insider’s view by the bestselling author of Sandy Koufax: A Lefty’s Legacy, The Last Boy: Mickey Mantle and the End of America’s Childhood, and The Big Fella: Babe Ruth and the World He Created takes readers from the Cape Cod Baseball League with “Bette-the-dog Leavy,” mascot of the Orleans Cardinals, to the data-driven mecca Driveline, to the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, to MLB HQ, and major league, minor league, independent league and Savannah Banana dugouts to gather old-school wisdom, new-school intelligence, and against-all-odds reasons to hold out hope for baseball’s future.

Leavy hits the road to see how well the rules MLB imposed in 2023 are working while gathering new ideas and support for her solutions from legends andluminaries like Joe Torre, Dave Roberts, Jim Palmer, Dusty Baker, Ron Washington, Kevin Cash, Alex Bregman, Francisco Lindor, Ozzie Albies, J.P. Crawford, Bill James, Daniel Okrent, Janet Marie Smith, and more. Along the way, she finds not only what’s wrong with baseball but also what’s undeniably and enduringly right with it, with the people who play it and with the people who love it.

Every inch a modern-day critique of the soulless and reckless modern-day pursuit of proficiency at all costs, Make Me Commissioner is also a love letter, telling the story of how baseball illuminates character, gives us a sense of who we are and what might and should matter most to us, spins yarns that surprise, delight, and inspire us, firing the imagination like no other game, like no other field of American life.

More than just practical solutions for how to save the game, with her sharp eye and quick wit, Leavy offers up thoughtful, often hilarious and always spot-on reminders of what baseball can do to save us. Baseball is our canary in the coal mine, Leavy writes. If we can remain connected to what players and managers call The Human Element, and not passively give ourselves over to the unrelenting demands of algorithms and AI, we can, she argues, stay connected to something essential and irreplaceable about who we are and want to be.

The human element includes: respecting the limitations ulnar collateral ligaments, which are tearing faster than cheap wrapping paper on Christmas morning. Make Me Commissioner takes a deep dive into the nightmare of “max heave” pitching with up-to-the-minute reporting on the Tommy John epidemic—to date, 45 additional surgeries since January.

Jane proposes: Expanding the pitching staff and creating a healthy scratch list as in the NHL, allowing managers to give beleaguered relievers a blow, but limiting the number they can use daily to eleven, nudging the game back to the era of aces and matchups that gave you a reason to go to the ball park. To that end: no pitcher may be removed from a game during an inning unless or until he has been charged with a run allowed in that inning. Any manager who removes a pitcher after seven perfect innings loses his managerial challenges for ten days.

The human element means: undoing the benign neglect that allowed the percentage of Black major leaguers to crater from nearly twenty percent to the current six percent. Commissioner Rob Manfred is trying but despite his efforts the number of Blacks on opening day rosters increased by .3 percent.

Jane proposes: Using MLB’s gambling profits to fund youth academies equivalent to the ones built in Latin America in every major league city.

The human element requires: baseball to grow a pair and grow a new audience. Market the game spikes-high to parents as the sane alternative to brain-eating collision sports like tackle football. “Teach them the game they’re going to remember forever.” It means limiting the number of showcases young pitchers are allowed to participate in to two a year.

Jane proposes: All kids ten and under, accompanied by an adult, get in free. If the Chicago Cubs had done that in 2024, and gave every kid a free hot dog, soda, ice cream, and a cap, it would have cost $4 million compared to the $21 million they paid Jason Heyward to play for the Dodgers.

The human element means: learning from the goofy Savannah Bananas, who got a contract with ESPN the week MLB lost theirs. Baseball doesn’t have to do what the Bananas do, they have to think the way the Bananas think. “Fans first, entertainment always.”

Jane proposes: meet and greets in the stands during every home game by players on the Injured List. No one ever pulled a groin shaking hands. A designated post-game autograph signer. A designated section at every game with $25 tickets plus all you can eat.

The human element demands: fixing baseball’s insane economic system model that allows Mets owner Steve Cohen to sign free agent Juan Soto for $765 million while nine other teams spent less than $20 million. As Hall of Famer Jim Palmer told her, “You would think there has to be a way where you can make a fan in Pittsburgh feel as important as a fan that comes to a Mets game. There’s so much there to share.”

Jane proposes: three new systems for making the game fair.

The human element insists: on meeting the present moment with imagination to make baseball cool again like the hand-held game “Beat the Bot” devised by the MIT Sports Analytics Lab to allow kids to interact with the game on the field the way they interact with the rest of the world. Tested at Eldredge Park with resounding success.

This is why Bill “Spaceman” Lee told her: “I know why you should be commissioner. You’re not for the players. You’re not for the owners. You’re for the game.”

HIGHLIGHT QUOTES:

Dusty Baker on baseball’s new rules: “Shee-it, it ain’t all fixed.”

Joe Torre on analytics: “They’re trying to make an imperfect game, perfect. I resent that.”

Morgan Sword, MLB executive vice president: “People don’t come to see velo. They come to see a story.”

J.P. Crawford, shortstop Seattle Mariners: “They’ve taken the beauty of the game away from baseball.”

Roger Angell, late baseball writer for the New Yorker: “I hate modern baseball.”

Buck Showalter, four-time manager of the year: “It’s just boring faster.”

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.

TOGETHXR Names Kati Fernandez Chief Content Officer

TOGETHXR — the trailblazing women’s sports media and commerce company co-founded by world-renowned professional athletes Alex Morgan, Chloe Kim, Simone Manuel, and Sue Bird — today announced that Kati Fernandez has joined the company as Chief Content Officer. Fernandez has spent seven years at ESPN, where she most recently was Head of Content Development and helped lead the creation, development and execution of some of the ESPN’S most successful programs.

“Kati’s passion for sports, enthusiasm for storytelling and experienced leadership make her a perfect fit for TOGETHXR as we expand and innovate our storytelling capabilities across platforms and continue to grow our studio business. We couldn’t be more excited to have her join the team,” said Nancy Dubuc, TOGETHXR’s Executive Chair.

“This is an exciting next step for my career, coming to a business in TOGETHXR that has already established itself in a very short period as the leader in the expansive storytelling space around women’s sports,” Fernandez said. “We are just getting started in what can be done on a global basis to identify and execute a media strategy to bring even more landmark stories to a wider audience, and I look forward to helping lift all of these amazing voices even higher by working with the team that has already been assembled, with more news and expansion to come as we grow.”

Fernandez joins an executive leadership team that includes Dubuc, who joined the business in April after a standout media career that has included roles as CEO at A+E Networks and Vice Media, and Jessica Robertson, Co-Founder and now Chief Brand Officer. Robertson will continue to lead how TOGETHXR expands its position in brand expression, as it opens up additional channels of growth in areas including international athlete, team and league partnerships and thought leadership.

As Chief Content Officer, Fernandez will lead TOGETHXR’s content strategy and execution, with a focus on how the platform can drive audience and revenue growth through original IP, studio programs, special events and branded content. Her new role will also bring a significant expansion and execution of content strategy across short form, mid form, long form, newsletter, and podcasts, identifying and developing stories that align with not just the brand but the expanding role TOGETHXR has had in the media, lifestyle, entertainment and sports landscape.

TOGETHXR continues to be the fastest growing women’s sports platform of its kind, tripling year-over-year revenue while expanding its reach across all social platforms. The business continues to expand in the brand partnerships, podcasting and video creation, merchandise and owned content areas, and has hosted over 50 live events tied to the biggest sporting and popular culture moments year-round with more planned in the coming months.

Fernandez began at ESPN in 2019, and rose to the position of Head of Content Development at ESPN, overseeing the evaluation of content ideas for ESPN Films, 30 for 30, original series, and premium storytelling podcasts. She helped lead the drive for the network to create and optimize all areas of original content, including across ESPN+, ESPN Originals, new studio launches and the award winning “30 for 30” series. Her team also led the launch of The Undefeated (now Andscape) on ESPN+, a hub for stories at the intersection of sports, race and culture.

Before joining ESPN, Fernandez was a producer for Hulu, helping develop and execute multi-channel production strategies for Hulu with Live TV, overseeing campaigns from launch from 2017 to 2019. Born and raised in The Dominican Republic, she has a Bachelor of Arts in Music & Pre-Medical Studies from The College of the Holy Cross, and a Master of Science in Communications from Syracuse University as well as a certificate from the Leadership Program in Multimedia Storytelling at Cornell University.

She begins her new role this week.

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.

Telemundo Deportes Ahora FAST Channel Launches Today

Telemundo today announces the launch of Telemundo Deportes Ahora, its 24/7 Spanish-language Sports FAST channel, debuting August 14 initially on Peacock, Xumo Play, the NBC News FAST hub, and Telemundo.com, with some content livestreaming on YouTube. Telemundo Deportes Ahora will roll out on additional platforms over the coming months.

“With Telemundo Deportes Ahora, we’re giving Hispanic audiences another way to connect with the sports they love, complementing our sports offering and enhancing their viewing experience on the road to World Cup and beyond,” said Joaquin Duro, Executive Vice President of Sports, Telemundo.

This new streaming channel delivers a dynamic, always-on sports viewing experience, with more than 50 hours of new Spanish-language content weekly, including original programming, live shows and select live sporting events, designed for today’s digital-first audiences. And as the countdown to FIFA World Cup 26™ intensifies, Telemundo Deportes Ahora will feature comprehensive coverage across fútbol and beyond, expert commentary and a fresh take on sports storytelling. Telemundo Deportes Ahora will complement Telemundo’s most valuable sports rights with additional properties, such as Básquetbol LATAM, select MMA events, Bare-Knuckle Boxing, and Pro-Paddle League.

Telemundo’s roster of award-winning sports talent will contribute to FAST channel programming, delivering extended and dedicated coverage. Andres Cantor, Carlota Vizmanos, Diego Balado, and Luis Omar Tapia will expand their Premier League coverage; Jorge Calvo, José Luis López Salido, and Miguel Gurwitz will provide additional Liga MX content; and Isabella Echeverri will supplement U.S. Soccer programming on Telemundo Deportes Ahora.

Telemundo will premiere new live studio shows exclusively for Telemundo Deportes Ahora. Below are the daily live shows airing Monday through Friday offering real-time coverage of the day’s top headlines, spirited debates, analysis and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the sports world debuting with the launch:

  • Telemundo Deportes Al Día – 1 p.m. ET: Hosted by Carmen Boquín, the show kicks off the day with the freshest sports news and a preview of the day’s programming. Carmen delivers key headlines and sets the stage for the rest of the sports coverage.
  • Puesta a Punto – 6 p.m. ET: An engaging show filled with debate, analysis, and in-depth commentary. Telemundo’s roster of award-winning sports talent brings their experience and insight, inviting audiences to take part in the conversation.
  • El Pelotazo Ahora – 11 p.m. ET: Hosted by Diego Arrioja, Pablo Mariño, and Verónica Rodríguez with regular contributions by Adriana Monsalve, the show serves as an extension of the network’s late-night sports show with a 360° approach, energetic hosts, guests, and lively debates, delivering a fresh take on the day’s most talked-about sports moments.

Telemundo Deportes Ahora will also present a suite of original programming designed to keep fans informed and entertained around key sports properties. Shows such as Fútbol MX, Fútbol US Soccer and Tercer Tiempo Ahoradeliver the latest stories, biggest goals and expert breakdowns across Mexican, U.S. and global fútbol plus other major sports moments around the games. For Premier League fans, the channel will offer a rich slate of complementary content, including weekly highlight reels (Zona de la Premier League), player profiles (Historias y Leyendas de la Premier League), pre- and post-match analysis (Previa de la Premier League and Repaso de la Premier League), as well aslegacy specials (Campeones de la Premier League).

In addition to its live offerings, Telemundo Deportes Ahora will offer weekly original programming, including:

  • Panorama Deportivo: A comprehensive look at the U.S. sports landscape, hosted by Jorge Calvo. This informative program dives into national trends with in-depth reporting and analysis, providing audiences with a full, detailed snapshot of the current sports scene.
  • Somos o No Somos: Hosted by Gurwitz, this is a fresh, energetic, and opinion-driven talk show that brings bold perspectives to the table. Whether the debate gets heated or stays lighthearted, this is the space for passionate takes on the week’s biggest topics.
  • Mundo PX Sports: A front-row seat to the world of extreme sports. This weekly show features news, highlights, exclusive interviews, mini-docs, and stunning scenery—all produced with a cinematic lens that captures the thrill of adrenaline-fueled action.

Telemundo Deportes Ahora joins Telemundo’s growing FAST channel lineup, including Telemundo Al Día (news, entertainment, reality, and sports), Noticias Telemundo Ahora (24/7 Spanish-language news), Telemundo Acción (high-energy action series) and Caso Cerrado (Telemundo’s iconic courtroom show). This expansion reinforces Telemundo’s commitment to diverse, on-demand content. For more information on Telemundo Deportes Ahora channel visit www.telemundo.com.

Telemundo Deportes, the sports division of NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises, is the leading U.S. Spanish-language sports production brand, home to the biggest live events and most relevant sports content across all platforms, including Telemundo, Universo, Peacock, and digital and social media channels. Telemundo Deportes produces 24/7 sports news and entertainment, led by a diverse, award-winning commentary team, and delivers a robust lineup of studio programming and live events, including exclusive Spanish-language coverage of FIFA events, including FIFA World Cup 2026™, and U.S. Soccer through 2026, the Premier League, Chivas de Guadalajara, NFL’s Sunday Night Football, NBA, the Olympic Games, and other major sporting events. 

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.