Wait, What? Sportsbiz Chat with DP & McGhee
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Episode 167 | This week, DP & McGhee explore the increasingly complex world of sports ownership before welcoming a guest whose work helps ensure the NFL's most important numbers are accurate. David and Tim break down a series of major ownership developments across the NBA, NFL and MLB, then go behind the scenes with Ollie Auerbach from the NFL's Statistics Operations department. The Lakers' Blockbuster Sale — The hosts discuss Mark Walter's shocking sale of the Los Angeles Lakers and the surprising decision by the Buss family to sell control of the franchise. They also consider whether the move could have implications for Chelsea, another major sports property in Walter's portfolio. The Buss Family Drama — Not long after the Lakers sale was announced, members of the Buss family indicated they intended to sell their minority stake in the franchise (also to Bob Iger and Josh Kushner). But Jeanie Buss was quick to push back with a "not so fast," suggesting the Lakers ownership story may have another chapter—or several—yet to come. Clippers Investigation Gets Murkier — David and Tim examine conflicting reports surrounding the NBA's investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers, Kawhi Leonard and their dealings with Aspiration, and what the uncertainty could mean for the league and the franchise. ⚾ The Yankees Bring in Apollo — The New York Yankees become the latest iconic sports franchise to tap outside capital, taking an investment from Apollo Sports Capital that includes both equity and a line of credit. DP & McGhee discuss what the deal says about the changing financial landscape of professional sports ownership. Guest: Ollie Auerbach — Ollie joins the show to explain his role in the NFL's Statistics Operations department, where he and his colleagues oversee the statistical operation for every play of every NFL game. Every Play Counts — Ollie provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the NFL monitors games from league headquarters and with personnel stationed at every stadium, ensuring the statistics relied upon by teams, broadcasters, fans and fantasy players are accurate and consistent. David Gets the Quiz — Ollie opens the interview by giving David the same quiz he previously gave Tim: What exactly qualifies as a sack? The seemingly simple question turns out to be considerably more complicated than it sounds. The Science Behind the Stats — The conversation reveals the extraordinary level of detail, judgment and coordination required to produce the official statistics that become part of the NFL's permanent record. From franchise valuations and ownership intrigue to the people responsible for recording every sack, tackle and touchdown, this episode offers a fascinating look at both the business and operational sides of professional sports. ️ Wait, What? SportsBiz Chat with DP & McGhee Smart takes. Occasional nonsense. Always at the center of Sports & Business. Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@DPandMcGhee Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts Visit: dpandmcghee.com
