Global Sports Business Forum in Los Angeles, January 24

The Global Sports Business Forum, hosted by the UCLA Anderson School of Management, is a premier event that brings together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from the sports, entertainment, and technology sectors. Held in Los Angeles, a city renowned for its vibrant sports culture and as the future host of the 2028 Summer Olympics, the forum serves as a pivotal platform for discussing the evolving dynamics of the global sports industry.

Event Overview

The forum is organized by UCLA Anderson’s Center for Media, Entertainment & Sports, reflecting the school’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and thought leadership. The event features a diverse lineup of speakers, including executives from major sports leagues, media companies, talent agencies, and technology firms. Attendees have the opportunity to engage in panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions that delve into the latest trends and challenges shaping the sports business landscape.

Key Themes and Discussions

The Global Sports Business Forum addresses several critical themes:

• Innovation in Sports Technology: Exploring advancements in areas such as wired arenas, emerging technologies, and new fan experiences.
• Monetizing Fan Engagement: Discussing analytics, audience measurement, sports betting, blockchain, NFTs, and platforms like TikTok to enhance fan interaction and revenue streams.
• Brand Partnerships: Examining strategies for creating compelling experiences that drive growth through collaborations between brands and sports entities.
• Entertainment Integration: Analyzing how film, TV, streaming, music, and gaming can be leveraged to promote sports, raise awareness, and tell compelling stories.
• Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL): Understanding the transformation of amateur athletics and the influencer economy, focusing on the implications of NIL rights.

Notable Speakers and Participants

The forum attracts a distinguished roster of speakers. Past events have featured individuals such as:

• Nana-Yaw Asamoah: Senior Vice President, Partnership Strategy and New Business at the National Football League (NFL).
• Nez Balelo: Co-Head of the Baseball Division at CAA Sports.
• Matt Barnes: Former NBA player and current ESPN analyst.
• Ryan Bishara: Executive Vice President, Revenue and Data Strategy at LAFC.
• Julie Haddon: Chief Marketing Officer at the National Women’s Soccer League.

These speakers provide valuable insights into the complexities and opportunities within the sports business sector.

Networking and Professional Development

Beyond the formal sessions, the forum offers ample networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with peers, industry veterans, and potential collaborators. Workshops and breakout sessions are designed to equip participants with practical skills and knowledge applicable to their professional endeavors.

Source: official website