Episode list

In the debut episode of Front Office Sports Today, Nate Burleson joins Baker and Renee to discuss massive changes sweeping the NFL and why broadcasting is harder than playing. Plus, Shaq is becoming Sacramento State's GM, Wrexham FC is surging under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McEllheny's ownership, and Shedeur Sanders is already one of the NFL's most marketable rookies despite his draft slide.

Chiney Ogwumike and Ryan Ruocco have both been instrumental to the rise and reach of the WNBA, and we hear from both of them on why new media is a major catalyst in expanding its reach. Plus, Tyrese Haliburton's father and Giannis Antetokounmpo get into it, there is a new contender for MLB's worst franchise, and Bill Belichick's girlfriend gets in the way of Hard Knocks.

Shedeur Sanders was one of many players to receive prank phone calls on draft night. NFL Insider Ian Rapoport weighs in on that, and what the Browns new quarterback room could mean for Deshaun Watson, Deion Sanders, and more. Plus, LeBron James weighs in on his playing future as Anthony Edwards is dubbed "The King Slayer" by Adidas, and the $6.1B sale of the Celtics gets an important update.

The Kentucky Derby generated over $3.8 Billion in revenue last year. Churchill Downs President Mike Anderson discusses how the venue became the crown jewel of horse racing. NBC's Randy Moss also offers his perspective on how the Derby has changed in the 45 years he's covered it. Plus, Gregg Popovich retires from coaching, John Haliburton addresses the media after his scuffle with Giannis, and Caitlin Clark's preseason return to Iowa costs as much as an NBA playoff game.

Flau'jae Johnson is one of NIL's biggest stars, and confirmed to Front Office Sports that she's running it back with the LSU Tigers. But what does that mean for her career aspirations in both music and the WNBA? Plus, Sherrone Moore is issued a two-game suspension for his involvement in Michigan's scouting scandal, LASIK is offering referees free vision correction, and Caitlin Clark does it again.

Hell yeah brother... Hulk Hogan has a new wrestling league. He joins us in studio alongside Eric Bischoff and Izzy Martinez to discuss. Plus, the NHL has cancelled next year's All Star Weekend, NBC is using A.I. to recreate its 90s nostalgia, and we hear from a familiar voice... in Germany.

Carli Lloyd was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame last weekend, telling the audience she wished she were less of "an emotionless machine" when she played. She joins the show to discuss her legendary career on the field and how she's building something entirely new off it. Plus, the NBA sees a surge in its first-round ratings behind the next generation of stars, NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney joins to discuss the new season of Full Speed on Netflix, and an NFL fan is suing the league over Shedeur Sanders's draft slide.

The Celtics and Cavaliers are both down 2-0 and face huge financial decisions this offseason. ESPN's Bobby Marks joins to explain how the CBA has laid the groundwork for this year's electric NBA playoffs. Plus, the House v. NCAA settlement approaches a resolution, Nick Saban is appointed by the Trump Administration, and Paul Pierce takes an eight-hour walk to work in slippers.

Two-time Super Bowl champion Malcolm Jenkins joins Front Office Sports Today to break down The Game of Art-his curated contemporary art auction benefiting his foundation. We also dive into his growing investment portfolio, including potential NFL ownership. Plus, Manny Pacquiao is out of retirement, what's in the water over in Pittsburgh, correspondent Derryl Barnes goes on assignment, and Pope Leo XIV dominates the convo over at the watercooler.

The winner of the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft lottery will receive a golden ticket for the next sure thing in Cooper Flagg ... or perhaps Giannis Antetokounmpo? Baker Machado and Renee Washington discuss the implications of tonight's event and why some teams with the top odds may be better off using Flagg as a trade chip for an established superstar. Plus, ESPN's Matt Miller explains why mock drafts in the NFL mean just as much to teams as they do to fans. Also, Michael Jordan is joining NBC's NBA coverage, the NFL season starts with a bang, and President Trump agrees to temporarily slash tariffs on Chinese goods.

The Mavericks won the NBA draft lottery with a 1.8% chance of doing so, launching a sea of conspiracy accusations against the league office. Nic Barlage, CEO of the 4-time lottery-winning Cavaliers says Cooper Flagg to Dallas is a lucky draw, not a setup. He also unpacks Cleveland's best regular season since 2009, despite facing a 3-1 playoff deficit to the Pacers. Plus, Jayson Tatum's injury could end this era of Celtics basketball as the team sale is completed, pricing details of ESPN's flagship streaming service emerge, and the Connecticut Sun are seeking new ownership.

With the top-seeded Cavaliers eliminated and the Celtics on the brink following Jayson Tatum's Achilles surgery, the Eastern Conference could be in trouble for the next few seasons-especially if Giannis Antetokounmpo heads West. Baker Machado and Renee Washington break down the NBA's looming parity problem. Plus, legendary goalkeeper Tim Howard explains how MLS can continue to grow the game during the Lionel Messi era, Pete Rose has controversially been unbanned from MLB, and the Pope's fake White Sox jersey is flying off shelves.

The NFL schedule release has become a must-see event, but this year's was even more significant because of changes in the streaming landscape. Baker Machado and Renee Washington bring you up to speed on this season's schedule, including primetime appearances and where you can watch. Plus, Giannis Antetokounmpo's former teammate John Henson joins the show to weigh in on where the two-time MVP will end up next season. We also hear from the PGA Championship regarding its controversy, and Nicolas Cage leads a star-studded cast for the John Madden movie.

The WNBA season tips off Friday with substantial momentum from last year, but a CBA decision looms that could shape women's sports going forward. FOS reporter Annie Costabile explains where negotiations stand ahead of this pivotal year that could see Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever win a championship. Plus, high school basketball star Noah Neumann joins the show to explain his viral decision to play in China instead of the NCAA, and breaks some big news about his overseas career. There's also a secret SuperSonics museum in Seattle, and Knicks ticket prices are jaw-dropping once again.

The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese is already dominating WNBA opening week, but for all the wrong reasons. FOS reporter Colin Salao gives his in-person assessment of the Fever beating down the Sky, and the latest on the W's investigation surrounding racial slurs reportedly made toward Reese. Plus, the Tush Push could be banned right after Nick Siranni inked a contract extension with the Eagles, Michael Jordan makes headlines again, and tennis star Donna Vekic talks about growing her brand during a grueling tournament schedule.

The WNBA's response to the racist comments made toward Angel Reese in Saturday's matchup against Caitlin Clark and the Fever will set an important precedent for women's sports going forward. FOS reporter Annie Costabile weighs in on the league's response to the racist incident and how WNBA media can prevent these situations instead of contributing to them. Plus, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant could be on the move this summer. NBA insider Chris Haynes joins with the latest insight on superstar movement, and what to expect from the meeting between Giannis and the Bucks this week.

The NFL owners voted against the ban on the Tush Push, but by only a small margin. Although it won't be outlawed this season, it is likely to be revisited, according to FOS newsletter writer Eric Fisher. We discuss that and more from the owners meeting. Plus, 10-time Gold Glove winner Ken Griffey Jr. has experienced a prolific post-baseball career that's only about to get better. He and Michael Collins of ESPN join to discuss their new show Caddie and The Kid, and Griffey's second act as a sports photographer.

ESPN's Around the Horn is coming to an end on Friday-and host Tony Reali sits down with Front Office Sports Today just one day before the final episode to give his candid reflection on the show's legacy, why it ended, and what it's meant to him personally and professionally. Plus, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins MVP as Giannis Antetokounmpo tweets in protest, NHL ratings are down massively, and we remember Jim Irsay as his daughter gets ready to take control of the Colts.

The NBA playoffs are delivering big numbers, largely thanks to new faces making up the final four and the stunning comebacks from the Indiana Pacers. Ahead of Game 2 against the Knicks, FOS reporter Colin Salao joins to discuss how the late-season stories are rejuvenating the NBA product, with the ratings to back it up. Plus, No. 1-ranked NASCAR driver Kyle Larson joins us in the studio ahead of attempting the historic "double," racing in the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.

Caitlin Clark's injury absence for the next two weeks will be a litmus test for the WNBA's momentum at large. Baker Machado and Renee Washington discuss whether ticket sales and ratings can keep up without Clark, and why the league must demonstrate its success independently of its biggest star. Plus, Tom Brady is back with another crypto investment after the FTX fiasco, Cristiano Ronaldo is done with his Saudi club, and USMNT legend Clint Dempsey joins with his thoughts on the future of American soccer.

After becoming the first Spaniard to win the Indy 500 this past weekend, champion Álex Palou joins the show to talk about the crazy finish to the event, preparing a car for a 500-mile trek, and racing's potential for international growth. Plus, the WNBA has found no substantial evidence of alleged racist remarks made toward Angel Reese, but this chapter isn't over; Baker Machado and Renee Washington break down the league's efforts to curb this issue before it gets worse.

A 12-time gold medalist, Michael Johnson joins Front Office Sports Today to discuss the upcoming Philadelphia Slam and securing better salaries for track athletes. Could we see bigger names join the league in the near future? Plus, Candace Parker is having her jersey retired not once, but twice, while MLB spends big money investing in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League ahead of its inaugural season beginning in June.

Owen Wilson and Peter Dager make their Front Office Sports debut to chat about their new show on Apple TV+, Stick. It's a heartfelt, feel-good sports comedy about a found family and their relationships set within the world of golf as it has never been shown before. Plus, Roger Bennett of Men in Blazers joins Renee Washington and Baker Machado to talk Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup, while FOS reporter Colin Salao joins the conversation to discuss the controversy around the promotion of women's matches at Roland-Garros.

After 35 years, TNT has officially bid adieu to the NBA, with NBC and Amazon Prime Video taking over the networks coverage next season. So what will Inside the NBA look like now that it moves to ESPN? FOS Tuned In reporter Mike McCarthy joins the show to chat about how Shaquille ONeal and Charles Barkley will coexist alongside Scott Van Pelt and other ESPN personalities. Plus, is Paul George responsible for both the Pacers and Thunder making the NBA Finals? Baker Machado and Renee Washington break down how both teams built their current championship rosters from trades involving someone who doesnt even play for either team anymore. And NFL global ambassador Diana Flores talks about the league's move into flag football.

Behind the pitching of its $1 million transfer NiJaree Canady, Texas Tech softball ended the powerhouse Oklahoma Sooners season Monday night. FOS reporter Amanda Christovich joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to explain the NIL arms race and how the House v. NCAA settlement could throw a wrench in it. Plus, Bussin With the Boys co-creator and host Will Compton explains his decision to leave Barstool for FanDuel, why it makes sense for some NFL players to retire early, and how his new podcast For the Dads came to life. We also examine the importance of baseball managers and roast the Orlando Magic new logo.

The New York Knicks are the talk of the town after they fired head coach Tom Thibodeau after their best season in 25 years. So who might owner James Dolan replace him with? And could this be Doris Burke and Richard Jefferson first and only season on ESPNs primary NBA play-by-play team? FOS reporter Ryan Glasspeigel discusses who could replace them. Plus, Stephen A. Smith gets a new show that wont be about sports and hockey commentator Jeff Marek joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to preview the rematch of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers.

After owning the White Sox for almost 50 years, chairman Jerry Reinsdorf says he plans to sell the controlling interest in the baseball team to the Ishbia family after 2029. And MLB commissioner Rob Manfred says robo umps might get called up to the big leagues in 2026. FOS reporter Eric Fisher explains how the automated ball-strike system would work next season. Plus, NBA reporter Jared Greenberg joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to preview Game 1 of the Finals between the Thunder and Pacers, Tyrese Haliburton drops his new Puma Hali 1 sneakers, and soccer analyst Susannah Collins previews the FIFA Club World Cup.

The previous matchup between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky set a ratings record as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese got into it. But even with Clark not suiting up for Indiana this weekend, Chicago still hopes to set an attendance record when it hosts the Fever at the Bulls United Center for the rematch. FOS reporter Colin Salao will be at the game and tells Baker Machado and Renee Washington what to anticipate. Plus, former NFL linebacker Brandon Copeland gives advice on the new world of NIL (name, image, and likeness) and how collegiate and professional players can avoid predatory financial situations. We also hear about the importance of data in MLB, and David Beckham receives Englands highest recognition.

The pivotal House v. NCAA settlement was approved Friday and will usher in a new era of NIL (name, image, and likeness) and collegiate athletics at large. FOS college sports reporter Amanda Christovich joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to explain the ruling's effect on schools and athletes. Plus, tennis writer Giri Nathan joins to discuss the instant-classic French Open final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, why it signifies the official change of eras for tennis, and how Sinner's doping scandal affects his status and the sport at large. We also talk about the Stanley Cup Final with Kathryn Tappen of NHL Network, and a Michael Jordan rookie card is selling for more than $2 million.

NFL mandatory minicamps have begun with a slew of stars holding out, including the league's top two sack leaders in T.J. Watt and Trey Hendrickson. NFL Network reporter Cameron Wolfe joins Front Office Sports Today with what he's heard about the two edge rushers as well as Jalen Ramsey, Terry McLaurin, and more. He also discusses the highly incentivized contract for new Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers. Plus, new Ravens receiver DeAndre Hopkins joins the show to discuss his expectations for playing alongside Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, his off-field ventures including a music label, and finding brand partnerships that align with his goals. Also, MLB buys a stake in Jomboy Media, the WNBA's newest franchise is set to become the most valuable women's sports team in the world, and the NCAA releases a study on harassment during March Madness.

With the FIFA Club World Cup beginning this weekend and the men's FIFA World Cup a year away, host cities are locked in to preparation. Tim Zulawski of Arthur M. Blank Sports and Entertainment Group tells our Baker Machado and Renee Washington how Atlanta is getting ready for the event, which is expected to generate more than $13 billion in revenue. FOS reporter Colin Salao also joins from Indiana ahead of the pivotal Game 3 of the NBA Finals as ratings plummet to their lowest since the COVID-19 season. Plus, Dan Rooney of the Steelers' front office joins FOS Today to discuss Aaron Rodgers signing with the team, the upcoming Ireland game, and the NFL Draft.

Ahead of calling Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final and his 1,486th national game, TNT's Kenny Albert joins Baker Machado and Derryl Barnes on Front Office Sports Today to talk about passing his dad, Marv Albert, for second all-time in games called. He also weighs in on the Panthers' chance to repeat and keep their team together in the offseason-specifically their breakout star, Sam Bennett. Plus, Jeff Gordon talks about NASCAR's future and its rapid international expansion ahead of a Cup Series in Mexico City, and he discusses his new documentary that covers NASCAR's race at Le Mans. Also, the Pacers are still booked as underdogs in the NBA Finals, MetLife finally gets a grass field (for now), and Grand Slam Track may be on its last hurdle.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's longtime rumored successor, Brian Rolapp (the architect of the NFL's $111 billion in media deals), is jumping over to become the first-ever CEO of the PGA Tour. FOS reporter David Rumsey explains what Rolapp's hiring means for future LIV/PGA merger talks and if he still could eventually succeed Goodell for the NFL's top job when Goodell decides to retire. Plus, Hornets legend Dell Curry joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to chat about his son Steph Curry's future in broadcasting after his playing days with the Warriors are over; the ratings for the NBA Finals are on the rebound ahead of Game 4 between the Thunder and Pacers; and Odessa Jenkins, CEO of the Women's National Football Conference, talks about women's tackle football ahead of their IX Cup.

The Red Sox shocked the baseball world Sunday when they shipped top slugger Rafael Devers to the Giants in what some are calling MLB's Luka Doncic moment. Robert Murray, the insider who broke this story, joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to explain how this shocking trade came together and what's next for both teams. Plus, WNBA Hall of Famer Sylvia Fowles joins Front Office Sports Today just days after her induction, and she gives her take on the ongoing CBA discussions and the marketability of next-gen stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Also, Kevin Durant gives his trade preferences, the Grizzlies follow in the Thunder's footsteps, and Shohei Ohtani returns to the bump after nearly two years.

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has officially announced he will be stepping down in 2026 as Brian Rolapp, former NFL chief media officer, is set to take over. Will Rolapp accomplish what Monahan could not and complete the merger deal with LIV Golf? FOS reporter David Rumsey weighs in. Plus, baseball writer Joon Lee reveals dirty details behind the Red Sox' shocking decision to trade franchise cornerstone Rafael Devers, which includes a growing rift inside Boston's organization at the top level. Also, five-time Pro Bowler Terron Armstead joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington in the studio to explain his decision to retire early, offering his thoughts on the NFL's injury management system and potential 18th game.

The Panthers completed their second consecutive Stanley Cup Final run in dominant fashion, thanks mainly to savvy moves by their front office. But the formula to keep up their winning ways could get complicated in this offseason, says FOS editor Meredith Turits. Plus, NBA meme king Josiah Johnson joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to explain how NBA Twitter has influenced the league's decisions, especially during these Finals, and how fake news account NBACentel factors into it all. Also, Tuesday's skirmish involving Caitlin Clark has WNBA fans calling out a league-wide refereeing problem, FIFA Club World Cup attendance is concerningly low for some matches, and Noah Lyles cancels his race with Tyreek Hill.

The Los Angeles Lakers have new ownership incoming, and a valuation of $10 Billion. How does the new ownership group affect the team operations going forward, and what does this record valuation mean for the rest of the league and sports world at large? FOS deals reporter Ben Horney joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to explain. Plus, the Finals have struggled from a ratings perspective, but if previous trends hold, Game 7 on Sunday could bring the boom that the league needs. Also, boxing promoter and Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn talks Dana White's recent move into the world of boxing, the Dodgers take a stand against ICE, and Drake loses $800k.

The Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off a Game 7 victory to win the NBA Finals, but their future could be even more exciting. FOS writer Colin Salao joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to discuss the OKC model that the rest of the league should be trying to emulate. On the other side, the Indiana Pacers face some difficult decisions in the wake of Tyrese Haliburton's torn achilles tendon. With basketball fever rampant in Indiana behind the success of Pacers and Fever, FOS reporter Alex Schiffer says the joint team ownership should do whatever it takes to keep the momentum going. Plus, Kevin Durant has been traded from the Phoenix Suns, but this is just the start of what could be a long offseason for Mat Ishbia's club. Suns reporter Duane Rankin discusses what's still to come.

The NBA offseason started with a bang as the Celtics began their roster strip down Monday night, but the real fireworks could come ahead of Wednesday's NBA draft. ESPN draft analyst Jay Bilas joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington with the latest insight on teams moving picks and players, the "new" two-day format that launched last year, and why Cooper Flagg could be the best freshman to ever come out of Duke. Plus, the NFL is attempting to cover up collusion against guaranteed contracts, according to Pablo Torre and Mike Florio-joining us to discuss this evolving situation that involves 32 team owners, commissioner Roger Goodell, and the NFL's "Management Council."

The NBA draft is Wednesday night, and more trades are expected as teams sell off parts to navigate CBA restrictions and avoid the luxury tax. FOS reporter Colin Salao says the free-agency craze from the 2010s is something of the past, and because of that, drafting and trading players matter more than ever, especially in light of the Celtics trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Four-time NBA champ John Salley also joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to discuss the evolution of the draft process, how a draft slide affects a player's mentality, as well as Salley's thoughts on his former team, the Lakers, selling at a record $10 billion valuation. Plus, ESPN acquires a stake in the Premier Lacrosse League, the latest in a trend of networks acquiring stakes in start-up leagues. FOS Tuned In columnist Michael McCarthy joins with the latest insight.

The first round of the NBA draft saw six trades, opposite crowd reactions for Adam Silver and Cooper Flagg, and Shams Charania (mostly) staying off social media to avoid spoilers for the broadcast. FOS multimedia reporter Derryl Barnes was at the draft, and he gives his thoughts on how the environment compares to the TV product. FOS newsletter writer Eric Fisher also discusses how draft-night trades impact the viewership experience for the fans. Plus, we are joined by Andrew Witlieb of Ace Bailey's representation on how the Rutgers star feels about being in Utah and why he declined pre-draft workouts for teams in the top five of the draft.

The dust has settled from the NBA draft, and No. 5 pick Ace Bailey still doesn't seem that jazzed to be in Utah. Will the former Rutgers star even play for his new team, and what are his options if he doesn't show up? Also, which teams made great selections and which dropped the ball? ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks joins Baker Machado and Derryl Barnes to give his draft winners and losers, as well as answer whether Giannis Antetokounmpo will return to the Bucks next season. Plus, after three lockouts over the last 20 years, the NHL and NHLPA have agreed to a new CBA through 2030 that will include an 84-game regular season in 2026. FOS editorial director of features Meredith Turits breaks down the new deal, which includes a solution for emergency goalies and the maximum length for player contracts. And Apple's $200 million film F1 finally hits theaters this week. Will the blockbuster starring Brad Pitt bring new fans to the sport?

The WNBA will undergo major expansion to 18 teams by the end of the decade, announcing new teams in Cleveland in 2028, Detroit in 2029, and Philadelphia in 2030. They join new franchises in Portland and Toronto in 2026. FOS womens sports reporter Annie Costabile was at the news announcement and breaks down how NBA owners helped bring the new teams to the W. Plus, LeBron James opted in to the final year of his $52.6 million deal with the Lakers in what could be the final NBA contract for the leagues all-time leading scorer. The Athletic senior NBA writer Fred Katz tells Baker Machado and Renee Washington why King James decided to stay one more season with the Lakers and if the team will go all in for one last title run before building their future around Luka Doncic. And the 138th Wimbledon tournament gets underway with both record-high temperatures and a $73 million pool prize. FOS newsletter writer Eric Fisher discusses Wimbledons major redevelopment plans and whether the tournament can continue to capitalize on Grand Slam excitement from the French Open that saw wins for Carlos Alcaraz and Coco Gauff.

The NBAs official start to the offseason started with a bang, as teams could finally sign free agents and trade players. Some of the biggest moves include Oklahoma City signing MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to a new supermax contract, the Nuggets making a big trade, and the Bucks shocking the NBA world by releasing star Damian Lillard to sign Myles Turner away from the Pacers. Spotracs Keith Smith crunches the numbers and explains how these new deals will work under the leagues new salary cap and which teams are close to the dreaded luxury tax apron. Plus, sneaker insider Nick DePaula dishes on the latest shoe news, including New Balance increasing their basketball footprint with the signing of Cooper Flagg and what he is hearing about Caitlin Clarks long-awaited signature Nike sneaker. He's also giving us a first look at the new Air Jordan 40s. And EA Sports is bringing back its NCAA college basketball video game after shelving it back in 2009. Extra Points founder/publisher Matt Brown joins Baker Machado and Renee Washington to explain how college athletes receiving NIL payments played a huge role in the game return and if EA Sports will be able to extend its licensing deal for Madden NFL, which expires in 2026.

The dust has settled after a wild start to NBA free agency, with insiders questioning the moves made by Milwaukee in dumping star Damian Lillard and replacing him with Myles Turner. Did the team do enough to keep star Giannis Antetokounmpo happy? Plus, after reportedly discussing a $42 million contract with the Pistons, Malik Beasley is in limbo as he faces a federal investigation over allegations of sports betting. FOS reporter Ben Horney details the latest in the investigation and why Beasley's former agent sued for $2.5 million, claiming Beasley might not have any money. Meanwhile, in the WNBA, the league and players are in heated discussions on a new collective bargaining agreement that expires after the season, with stars like Mercury forward Satou Sabally calling the league's latest proposal a "slap in the face." CBS Sports WNBA analyst Terrika Foster-Brasby breaks down the latest in the negotiations and explains why the league's big expansion news this week hasn't sat too well with some players. And, NFL Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis joins the show to chat about his former team, the Steelers, signing Aaron Rodgers, and if he thinks they made enough moves during the offseason to make a deep run in the playoffs.

Less than a week has passed since NCAA Division I schools could start directly paying players, and we're already seeing historic deals across all sports. Five-star football offensive tackle Felix Ojo spurned offers from Texas and Ohio State to sign a historic, fully guaranteed three-year, $5.1 million revenue-sharing contract with Texas Tech. It is believed to be one of the largest agreements in college football history. Ojo's agents, Derrick Shelby, and Rashad Phillips of Prestige Management Group, tell Baker Machado and Renee Washington how they were able to secure Ojo's megadeal, in addition to the reported $1.2 million they got softball pitcher NiJaree Canady, and how athletes should navigate the current NIL (name, image, and likeness) environment after the landmark House settlement. Plus, the Suns and Bradley Beal are expected to part ways in the coming days, as Phoenix would reportedly absorb the remaining $110 million of Beal's contract, ending one of the most infamous deals in NBA history. FOS reporter Colin Salao breaks down how Beal's exit is similar to what the Bucks did with Damian Lillard and what his options are on the open market. And President Donald Trump and UFC say they plan to host a fight on the White House lawn as part of America's 250th celebration on July 4, 2026. FOS newsletter writer Eric Fisher explains the likelihood of the unprecedented event happening and whether former two-division champion Conor McGregor might be one of the fighters in the ring.

As one of 10 states where sports gambling is still not legal, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a recent legal filing that draft and pick'em-style daily fantasy games could be considered sports betting and therefore illegal in the state. While companies like DraftKings that have operated in the state for 13 years say fantasy contests involve skill and should not be considered gambling, FOS deals reporter Ben Horney tells Baker Machado and Renee Washington the legal aspects of the filing and whether players in the Golden State will still be able to play daily fantasy games. Meanwhile, the WNBA and its players are less than four months away from the Oct. 31 expiration of their current CBA, and the two sides remain far apart. The players firmly rejected the league's first counterproposal a few weeks ago, with some calling it "a slap in the face." FOS women's sports reporter Annie Costabile spoke with union president Nneka Ogwumike and has the latest on the tense negotiations. And don't look now, but the Magic could be a real threat in the NBA's Eastern Conference for years to come after signing star Paolo Banchero to a reported five-year, $239 million max rookie contract extension, locking up their core of Banchero, Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and newly acquired Desmond Bane through the 2028-29 season. Plus, Pacers president Kevin Pritchard admits he was "shocked" like the rest of us when he read star Myles Turner would be leaving the team for the Bucks on Shams Charania's social media.

Fresh off its box office success of the film F1, Apple is reportedly in talks to acquire U.S. broadcast rights for Formula One racing when they become available next year after ESPN's exclusive window to negotiate a new contract will expire. FOS's "Tuned In" writer Michael McCarthy explains how much the tech giant might pay for the racing rights and why F1 would fit seamlessly into Apple's growing collection of sports, including MLB and MLS. Plus, a big shake-up at Red Bull as team president Christian Horner was fired after 20 years. Tech and F1 commentator Toni Cowan-Brown talks about the seismic news of the exit and the uncertain future of driver Max Verstappen. Meanwhile, fresh off their first NBA title, the Thunder are spending $535 million to keep their championship core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren together, but not at a discount. FOS reporter Alex Schiffer breaks down the deals and whether OKC will be able to re-sign its other star Jalen Williams, and why Nikola Jokic decided against signing a new max deal with the Nuggets this summer. And the presumed No. 1 pick in next year's NHL draft, 17-year-old Gavin McKenna, is going to Penn State on what is believed to be the biggest NIL (name, image, and likeness) deal in college hockey history. FOS editorial director of features Meredith Turits discusses what McKenna's decision to leave the CHL to play in college this season might signal for the future of hockey.

Major League Baseball's automated ball-strike (ABS) system, which has been tested in the minor leagues and spring training, is ready to make its big league debut at the All-Star Game next Tuesday in Atlanta. FOS newsletter writer Eric Fisher explains how the technology will be used to challenge ball-strike calls and why some pitchers are on the fence about its presence. Plus, MLBPA union leaders say commissioner Rob Manfred is pushing for a salary cap in his meetings with players ahead of what will be intense talks before their current labor deal expires in December 2026. Meanwhile, the biggest question looming over the Lakers' record sale at a $10 billion valuation to Dodgers owner Mark Walter is how much longer current team governor Jeanie Buss will remain with the organization. While it was stated she would stay with the team "for the foreseeable future," FOS "Asset Class" writer Ben Horney is hearing she could leave within the next five years. And commissioner Brett Yormark is attempting to make the Big 12 "a global conference," with a college football game this season in Dublin, a women's basketball game in Paris, and baseball games in 2026 in Mexico City. FOS reporter David Rumsey tells Baker Machado and Renee Washington the Big 12 is looking to find the same success leagues like the NFL and NBA have had in taking their products abroad, and he dishes about why college coaches like Deion Sanders are calling for a salary cap.

Soccer superstar Gareth Bale and his investment group have been in talks to buy League One club Cardiff City FC. The Welsh all-time leader in international caps and goals also weighs in on the FIFA Club World Cup, 2026 FIFA men's World Cup, Premier League, MLS as a retirement league, and other soccer topics from around the big slate of tournaments. Plus, two of the biggest names in boxing, Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, take the ring at Madison Square Garden in the final chapter of their trilogy to headline the first all-women card in the Garden. Instead of the usual pay-per-view paywall broadcasting the historic event, Taylor-Serrano streams live on Netflix on Friday. Led by Jake Paul, the promoters of the fight organized this sold-out event to positively change the future of boxing, especially around increasing higher purses, opportunities for boxers, and media rights that provide easier access. Also, with FOS reporter Alex Schiffer covering the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, Alex joins Renee Washington and guest cohost Curran Bhatia to recap the sold-out Lakers-Mavericks game Thursday night featuring 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg and Bronny James. We also continue to get NBA offseason moves such as Jalen Williams's recent max contract extension with the reigning-champion Thunder. OKC has now locked in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Williams with extensions that, combined, total up to $822 million. Meanwhile, two-time MVP and NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo joined IShowSpeed on the famous YouTuber's livestream and shared that he will "probably" stay in Milwaukee.