15/5/5 For The Week Of November 11th

15 TO WATCH

1. DraftKings Faces $250 Million Loss Due to NFL Bets
   DraftKings' earnings were impacted by NFL game outcomes favoring the public, resulting in a $250 million loss for Q3 2024. Although DraftKings reported $1.1 billion in revenue, shares fell by 7% as losses per share exceeded estimates. The company anticipates a revenue range of $6.2 to $6.6 billion for 2025, outperforming initial expectations.

2. Coco Gauff Wins WTA Finals with Record-Breaking Payout
   Coco Gauff secured the WTA Finals title in Saudi Arabia, winning $4.805 million, the largest prize ever for a women’s tennis event. Her 2024 prize money now totals $9.35 million after this third title win of the year. Gauff’s win reinforces her status as the world’s highest-paid female athlete, as she recently expanded her endorsement portfolio.

3. Jon Jones Returns to UFC 309 in Historic Showdown
   Jon Jones, widely considered the greatest Mixed Martial Artist ever, will return to the Octagon against Heavyweight legend Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. Jones returns from injury, and Miocic will step back into the Octagon for the first time since 2021. This event, held at Madison Square Garden, could feature retirements for both fighters, making it a landmark fight in UFC history. The co-main event features a clash between two of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, Charles ‘Do Bronx’ Oliveira vs Michael Chandler in a lightweight bout.

4. Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia Challenges NCAA Rules on Eligibility
   Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA, aiming to secure two additional years of eligibility to boost his NIL potential. The case argues that NCAA rules limit junior college (JUCO) transfers' eligibility compared to athletes who start at NCAA institutions. A win could set a precedent for JUCO athletes to pursue extended eligibility for increased NIL revenue.

5. NIL Deal Could Entice Top QB to Michigan Over LSU
   LSU commit Bryce Underwood, a top quarterback in the 2025 class, could be swayed by a potential $10 million NIL deal to join Michigan instead. The deal, which includes contributions from prominent Michigan alumni, would rival the earnings of top college players. As LSU fights to retain Underwood’s commitment, Michigan supporters are pushing to keep the player in-state.

6. Paramount+ Gains 3.5 Million Subscribers via NFL and UEFA Content
   Paramount+ reported a quarterly boost of 3.5 million subscribers, largely due to NFL and UEFA Champions League broadcasts. The platform’s revenue rose by 25%, and streaming of NFL games on Paramount+ increased by 50% year-over-year. With 72 million subscribers, Paramount continues to leverage live sports to drive growth.

7. Jake Paul and Mike Tyson to Headline Netflix’s Boxing Debut
   Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will headline a groundbreaking boxing event at AT&T Stadium, streamed live on Netflix. The collaboration with Most Valuable Promotions aims to set new streaming records with an expected 60,000 attendees. The event includes a co-main bout featuring Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor, spotlighting women’s boxing on a global stage.

8. Netflix Could Enter UFC Media Rights Negotiations
   As UFC’s exclusive contract with ESPN nears its end, Netflix has emerged as a potential contender for UFC media rights. Although Netflix has historically avoided live sports, recent deals with the NFL and WWE suggest a shift. With Netflix leaning into event-driven content, securing UFC rights could align with its subscriber-focused strategy.

9. Thursday Night Football Sees Highest Viewership in Five Years
   Thursday Night Football is averaging 13 million viewers, up 4% from the previous year, marking its highest mid-season viewership since 2019. The Texans-Jets game drew 11.56 million, despite competition from other major sports broadcasts. This season, the series remains popular among younger viewers, with a median age of 48.

10. MLB Opposes Diamond Sports’ Reorganization Amid Bankruptcy
    MLB and the Atlanta Braves have objected to Diamond Sports Group’s bankruptcy reorganization plan, citing concerns about the plan’s feasibility. The Braves and MLB argue that Diamond’s proposal lacks transparency and could lead to further financial instability. MLB’s stance could prolong court deliberations as the confirmation hearing progresses.

11. Under Armour Stock Rises Following Strong Q2 Results
    Under Armour’s stock surged by 27% after the company outperformed expectations in Q2 2025. Despite a slight dip in revenue, improved operational efficiency and a refined brand strategy bolstered investor confidence. CEO Kevin Plank announced plans for the company’s largest marketing campaign yet, set to launch in 2025.

12. Shaquille O’Neal Attributes NBA’s Ratings Dip to Three-Point Emphasis
    Shaquille O’Neal suggested that the NBA’s focus on three-point shooting may be contributing to declining ratings. O’Neal’s comments align with concerns that the game's style has become predictable. The league has seen a surge in three-point attempts, but some analysts propose moving the arc back to restore balance.

13. NCAA Lifts Ban on Canadian Hockey League Players
    The NCAA will now allow players from Canada’s major junior hockey leagues to retain college eligibility, reversing a decades-old policy. This decision opens opportunities for Canadian athletes to compete in college hockey and could impact development paths leading to the NHL. The change is expected to reshape talent pipelines for U.S. college hockey.

14. E1 World Championship Expands to Qatar and the U.S.
    The E1 World Championship, an all-electric boat racing series, announced its 2025 calendar, adding events in Doha and an unnamed U.S. city. The expanded schedule underscores E1’s ambition to grow as a global sport. The series’ second season will kick off in Saudi Arabia as part of its Electric 360 partnership.

15. World Rugby and Fanatics Sign Comprehensive Merchandising Deal
    World Rugby has partnered with Fanatics to manage its global retail and licensing, covering upcoming Rugby World Cups. Fanatics will launch an online store, offering rugby fans access to merchandise worldwide. Both organizations share a commitment to sustainability, aiming to reduce single-use plastics across their operations.

SPORTS TECH 5

1. Sportradar Reports 27% Revenue Growth in Q3
   Sportradar reported €255 million in Q3 revenue, marking a 27% year-over-year increase driven by growth in its betting technology. The U.S. market accounted for 20% of revenue, up from 17% last year. Sportradar’s expansion in data rights and services reflects the rising demand for sports betting solutions.

2. NHL Expands Wi-Fi Partnership with Extreme Networks
   Extreme Networks has broadened its collaboration with the NHL, enhancing connectivity in several arenas. Advanced Wi-Fi solutions are now available in venues for the Ducks, Flames, Blue Jackets, and Predators, aiming to improve fan experiences. The NHL uses this data to better understand fan preferences and optimize game-day operations.

3. Ferrari Partners with IBM for Fan Engagement and Data Analytics
   Ferrari F1 has partnered with IBM to redesign its mobile app, focusing on fan engagement and data insights. Starting in 2025, IBM will use Ferrari’s data to create interactive experiences, particularly targeting younger fans. The partnership aligns with Ferrari’s goal to bring a digital edge to motorsport.

4. Australia’s Sports Tech Sector Valued at $4.69 Billion
   Australia’s sports technology industry has grown to AUS$4.69 billion, representing 12% of the national sports sector. Mergers, acquisitions, and increased adoption of smart tech have fueled this expansion. With the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics, further growth in sports technology is anticipated.

5. Apple Brings iPads to NCAA Sidelines for Real-Time Analysis
   Apple’s iPads are now being used on NCAA football sidelines, enhancing in-game analysis for three major conferences. Coaches and players can access real-time video and data insights, improving play adjustments. Apple’s involvement reflects its growing presence in sports technology, complementing investments in MLS and the Super Bowl.

GOOD SPORTS 5

1. Rory McIlroy Advocates for Golf Peace Deal Amid U.S. Politics
   Rory McIlroy believes former President Trump’s close ties to Saudi Arabia could facilitate a peace deal in golf’s ongoing PGA-LIV dispute. McIlroy’s remarks underscore the complex interplay between politics and sports. He suggests that Trump’s influence could ease regulatory obstacles and promote unity in professional golf.

2. Esports Wales Launches Leadership Award for Students
   Esports Wales has introduced a Level 3 Esports Leadership course for students aged 16 and over. The course covers tournament organization, ethics, and ecosystem knowledge. Esports Wales hopes to standardize esports education across the country, aligning with its mission to grow the industry in Wales.

3. Chris Eubank Launches Community-Focused Fundraising App
   Boxing legend Chris Eubank has partnered with Trust Huddle to launch a fundraising app for community groups. The app, free to use, supports schools, sports clubs, and charities with features for organizing events and sales. Eubank’s mission is to empower communities through accessible fundraising tools.

4. Brazil’s Don Bosco Institute Opens New Sports Facility
   Brazil’s Don Bosco Institute inaugurated a modern sports complex in Parnamirim, featuring an 824-seat gymnasium and multi-sport field. The facility promotes social interaction and well-being, enhancing recreational options for students. Technological innovations like natural lighting and thermal insulation reflect the school’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure.

5. LPGA Expands Coverage for Caitlin Clark Pro-Am Event
   Golf Channel and the LPGA will broaden coverage of Caitlin Clark’s participation in The Annika pro-am. The event will feature live streams of Clark’s warm-up and an in-round interview, highlighting her impact as a rising sports figure. The expanded coverage aims to engage fans with behind-the-scenes insights into Clark’s pro-am experience.

Sources: Front Office Sports, Sportico, On3, SportsPro Media, Sports Business Journal, SportCal, ESpprts Insider, Keighley News UK, Mission Newswire