🏟️ The WNBA’s $200M Question

Welcome to this week’s edition of Sports Industry Weekly.
We’re breaking down the biggest headlines, boldest moves, and emerging trends shaping the business of sports. From major deals to industry shifts, here’s what you need to know. Let’s dive in.

Labor tensions in the WNBA are escalating weeks before the Oct. 31 CBA deadline. Napheesa Collier’s sharp criticism of commissioner Cathy Engelbert over low rookie pay and stagnant salaries sparked support from stars like A’ja Wilson and Angel Reese, highlighting a widening gap between player expectations, fueled by record media revenue, and the league’s focus on “sustainability.”

With media rights revenue set to triple to $200 million annually, the league faces a pivotal moment to modernize revenue sharing and compensation. But stalled negotiations threaten to slow momentum, putting the league’s growth and even the 2026 expansion in jeopardy if no deal is reached. (read more)

🌏 Roger Goodell wants to expand the NFL’s international series to 16 games, with Asia next after Australia in 2026.

⚾ Cardinals attendance dropped 628K, the biggest fall in MLB.

📺 MLB national TV viewership jumped from last year.

🏟️ The A’s Las Vegas ballpark permits have reached $901.8M in total.

👟 Nike posted its first revenue gain since 2024.

⚽ Adidas lit up The Sphere with every World Cup ball and teased the ’26 reveal.

💰 The Big Ten is exploring a $2B+ private capital deal tied to rights through 2046.

 🎥 The Florida Panthers just unveiled a massive new centerpiece at Amerant Bank Arena.

🥊 Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing signed a 5-year deal with Paramount after UFC’s $7.7B pact.

🎬 Atlanta United opened Studio 17, a new content hub in its $25M training ground expansion.

🏟️ The Bears’ planned $5B stadium asks for $855M in public funds for infrastructure.

🌎 Cleveland is bidding to host 2031 Women’s World Cup matches at the Browns’ future stadium.

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