Firms To Watch: Sport

Specializing in handling high-profile defamation cases, libel lawsuits, and bribery claims for high-profile sporting individuals, the Meister Seelig & Fein PLLC practice, headed by Mitchell Schuster, is highly regarded for its crisis management expertise.

Sport in United States

Latham & Watkins LLP

Acting on behalf of private equity firms, NBA franchises, and major sporting federations, the Latham & Watkins LLP team demonstrates ‘valuable industry knowledge’ in handling multi-jurisdictional M&A, antitrust litigation, and sponsor-backed minority investments in sports franchises. The practice is also highly regarded for its work in the media space, regularly assisting with multi-party joint entertainment ventures and terminating telecast rights agreements. Described as ‘thorough’ and a ‘balanced negotiator’, Adam J. Sullins heads the team from Century City and focuses on strategic investments and transactions, whilst Kendall Johnson is knowledgeable on the licensing and financing of sponsorship rights. In New York, Frank Saviano specializes in team acquisitions and stadium development, and Justin Hamill assists with corporate governance affairs. San Francisco-based Chris Yates concentrates on high-stakes antitrust claims, and Adam Rosenthal is well-regarded for his expertise in matters concerning sports league governance and rules.

Praxisleiter:

Adam Sullins


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Frank Saviano; Kendall Johnson; Chris Yates; Adam Rosenthal; Rachel Klein; Justin Hamill


Referenzen

‘I have used Latham’s Sports practices in an extensive and ongoing manner and continue to be thrilled with the work output, emotional intelligence and industry knowledge across the team. Latham’s sports team is an undisputed industry leader given its unique combination of commercial knowledge of the industry, shrewd and pragmatic legal advice, and exceptional interpersonal ability. Latham consistently finds ways to solve problems and demonstrates a desire to make deals happen in the face of challenges by deciphering cutting-edge structuring tactics rather than shying away due to a challenge.’

‘The Latham team continually distinguish themselves from other leading firms through their impeccable and timely work product, valuable industry knowledge, strong emotional intelligence and deep tenure in the space. The Latham team provide accurate, creative, intelligent work, and they’re a ton of fun to work alongside.’

‘Amongst the talented attorneys at Latham, Frank Saviano, Adam Rosenthal, and Rachel Klein stand out because they work extremely hard to consistently produce terrific work while fostering a collaborative, fun and contagious culture. Their unique combination of IQ and EQ will continue to set them far apart in the industry and I plan to use Latham largely exclusively going forward. I would be delighted to discuss further.’

Kernmandanten

Skydance Media


The Chernin Group Capital Management, LP


RedBird Capital Partners


Diamond Baseball Holdings


Archwell Holdings, LLC


Sixth Street Partners


DLHPII Sports Media And Entertainment, LLC


Blue Owl Sports


Dynasty Equity Partners Management, LLC


Houston Rockets


Endeavor Operating Company


Ultimate Fighting Championship


Fanatics, Inc.


United States Soccer Federation


The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC)


Padres, LP


World Aquatics


Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)


Nexstar Media Group


World Surf League


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised RedBird Capital Partners in connection with the formation of EverPass Media, a NewCo owned by RedBird and the NFL, which will hold the exclusive rights to distribute NFL Sunday Ticket to commercial establishments in the United States starting with the 2023 NFL season.
  • Advised Endeavor in connection with UFC and WWE’s US$21 billion merger to form a new, publicly listed company consisting of two iconic, complementary, global sports and entertainment brands.
  • Advising FIFA in connection with the host city selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and related matters.

Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP

Regularly delivering ‘unmatched results’ and displaying ‘unparalleled knowledge’, the Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP practice has extensive expertise in advising international and domestic clients on all aspects of litigation, transactional, and regulatory affairs. The team is renowned for both its corporate and contentious offering in the sports area, frequently handling multi-jurisdictional M&A, debt finance transactions, and sponsorship deals in addition to overseeing high-profile settlements. New York-based chairperson Brad Karp being an expert litigator- covering claims ranging from concussion litigation to racial discrimination class actions. Lynn Bayard is knowledgeable in tort and negligence proceedings within sport, whilst the ‘standout’ Chris Boehning has vast experience in high-stakes regulatory and civil litigation in addition to advising major sports leagues and federations on transactional issues. Claudia Hammerman is a key contact for clients in commercial disputes and internal investigations, and Daniel J. Toal specializes in antitrust and private securities contentious matters.

Praxisleiter:

Brad Karp


Referenzen

‘The Paul Weiss sports practice is the go-to-choice for me and many big-name sports clients who need help with their toughest matters. I routinely turned to Chris Boehning and the team and cannot say enough good things about them. If you’re in the sports industry, you want Paul, Weiss on your side. They see the big picture in any matter and understand how everything in the sports world connects – from owners to leagues to marketing to regulations – and they give you advice that works across the board. They have a bunch of incredible lawyers who are extremely talented and super responsive which is what you want as a client. The unparalleled knowledge and expertise the team has regarding the international and domestic sports world gives them the ability to deliver unmatched results.’

‘Chris Boehning is one of the stand-out partners and is a driving force behind Paul, Weiss’s Sports Practice. Engaging with Chris on various sports law matters over the years has shown me the meaning of premier counsel. As an executive in the industry navigating high-pressure situations daily, I greatly appreciate working with someone who grasps the unique ecosystem and moves rapidly yet judiciously like Chris. I have called Chris for his industry knowledge, and he was able to connect with me leading sports lawyers in another jurisdiction. He is truly outstanding.’

Kernmandanten

Boston Bruins


Clearlake Capital Group, L.P.


Diamond Sports Group


Fédération Internationale de Football Association


IG Acquisition Corp.


Ad Hoc Group of Learfield Creditors


Lottomatica Group S.p.A.


The Special Committee of the Board of Directors of Madison Square Garden Entertainment


Major League Baseball


National Football League


Northwestern University


PlayAGS, Inc.


Seven Seven Six (776) Fund III, L.P.


World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.


Zuffa, LLC


Highlight-Mandate


Proskauer Rose LLP

Noted for ‘touching many different sports and different facets within the industry’, the Proskauer Rose LLP team provides expertise across IP, M&A, and litigation matters to its roster of global sporting associations and financial institutions. The team also boasts leading specialists in the labor and employment space capable of assisting clients with collective bargaining claims, complex contract disputes, and alleged breaches of fiduciary duty. Joseph Leccese and Bradley Ruskin co-head the department, with the former being highly experienced in representing professional sports leagues, private equity firms, and sovereign wealth funds, while the latter routinely litigates in antitrust claims and corporate governance disputes. Jon H Oram is an expert on equity and debt financings, the ‘outstanding’ Christine Lazatin acts on behalf of owners and corporate borrowers in finance and corporate transactions, and Jason Krochak handles joint ventures and naming rights agreements. All the named attorneys are New York-based, including Wayne Katz, who focuses on team ownership transfers.

Praxisleiter:

Joseph Leccese; Bradley Ruskin


Referenzen

‘Proskauer has an extensive sports practice touching many different sports and different facets within the industry.’

‘The individuals in the sports practice devote all their time to matters within the industry, unlike at many other firms where sports industry matters generally only are a small portion of their focus. Christine Lazatin is also outstanding.’

 

Kernmandanten

Activision Blizzard


Ares


ATP Tour


BIG EAST Conference


Big 10 Conference


Big 12 Conference


Bruin Capital


Detroit Pistons


Drone Racing League


Goldman Sachs


Jacksonville Jaguars


JPMorgan


Los Angeles 2028


Madison Square Garden Co.


Major League Baseball


Major League Soccer


NASCAR


National Basketball Association


National Football League


National Hockey League


National Lacrosse League


National Women’s Soccer League


New York Islanders


Patrick D. Bowlen Trust


Broncos


Philadelphia Eagles


PGA of America


Professional Women’s Hockey League


San Diego Padres


Shamrock Capital Advisors


TMRW Sports


United States Golf Association


Washington Nationals


Women’s National Basketball Association


WTA Tour


Highlight-Mandate


Winston & Strawn LLP

Counting sports franchises, financial service providers, and governmental entities amongst its key clients, the team at Winston & Strawn LLP has extensive experience acting in high-profile litigation and arbitration proceedings in addition to advising on project developments and financing transactions. The practice is highly regarded for assisting companies and institutional investors in securing media rights, obtaining license agreements, and managing sponsorship assets. The practice is headed by David Feher, David Greenspan, and Jeffrey Kessler, with the trio specializing in complex sports labor law proceedings, antitrust litigation, and finance issues surrounding NFL and NBA teams. Alan Hoffman is an expert on conventional financing structures, Jonathan Amoona routinely represents athletes across all sports in arbitration claims, and San Francisco-based Jeanifer Parsigian is a key for regarding gender-discrimination lawsuits. Sofia Arguello focuses on salary and benefit-related matters, whilst Jason Hellwig and Jason Goldstein serve as key contacts for real estate finance and infrastructure projects. Adam Dale is knowledgeable on employment related issues, and all lawyers are New York-based unless otherwise stated.

Praxisleiter:

David Feher; David Greenspan; Jeffrey Kessler


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Alan Hoffman; Jonathan Amoona; Jeanifer Parsigian; Sofia Arguello; Jason Hellwig; Jason Goldstein; Adam Dale; Drew Washington


Kernmandanten

North American Soccer League


Relevent Sports, LLC


National Basketball Players Association


U.S. Women’s National Team soccer players


William Morris Endeavor


Cangrejeros Baseball Club, LLC


United Talent Agency


National Football League Players Association


Activision Blizzard


JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised a number of college athletes in connection with an ongoing House antitrust case against the NCAA.
  • Represented a group of institutional investors in connection with the issuance of senior secured notes secured by media rights, sponsorship assets, and intellectual property rights owned by ASR Media and Sponsorship S.p.A., an affiliate of AS Roma.

ArentFox Schiff

Fielding a ‘business-minded and practical’ team, ArentFox Schiff specializes in advising on franchise acquisitions, arena and stadium leases and licenses, as well as gaming and esports matters. The practice also routinely advises on contentious matters and has a record of handling cases related to invasion of privacy, defamation, and commercial disparagement issues. San Francisco-based Richard Brand leads the team and regularly supports clients with media rights agreements and naming rights-related matters. In Los Angeles, Maidie Oliveau has developed a strong reputation for advising on sponsorships and event-related rights, whilst New York-based Eric Fishman and Stephen Hanson maintain close client relationships with advertising agencies, start-ups, and major sports leagues. Boston-based lawyer Wesley Gee is an expert on financing matters, and Zachary Welsh, who practices from San Francisco, focuses on representing clients in connection with franchise acquisition agreements.

Praxisleiter:

Richard Brand


Referenzen

‘For every legal issue we’ve worked on with AFS, there has been an expert with deep industry knowledge to bring to the table.’

‘The AFS team is business-minded and practical in their legal advice. They point out the legal issues, explain them in an understandable manner, and help us work through issues in a way that fits our business needs and future growth initiatives. ’

Kernmandanten

Tampa Bay Rays


SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park


Kevin Durant


ASM Global


National Women’s Soccer League


Boardroom 35 LLC


Los Angeles Lakers


New York City Football Club


Just Women’s Sports


Board of Trustees of the California State University


Eastside Golf


Barclays Center & Brooklyn Events Center


New York Red Bulls


Wyndham Hotels


Miami Heat


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented the Tampa Bay Rays in connection with a deal to transform the 86-acre site of the team’s current stadium to a new ballpark and mixed-use development after reaching an agreement with the City of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County.
  • Advised Kevin Durant and his entities, including Boardroom, on various endorsement, intellectual property, and business deals.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

Leveraging its extensive expertise in the M&A, employment, and IP fields, the team at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP routinely represents major US sports leagues and membership organisations in complex transactions and high-profile lawsuits. The team is especially well-regarded for its ability to represent clients in high-sakes antitrust claims and trade mark infringement cases, with practice co-heads Anthony Dreyer and Karen Lent serving as key contacts for commercial litigation surrounding sports, licensing, and competition matters. Matthew Martino specializes in league governance, broadcasting, and sponsorship issues, while Thad Hartmann focuses on high-profile mergers. Michael Menitove regularly advises professional sports leagues on their business practices and agreements. All named attorneys operate out of New York.

Praxisleiter:

Anthony Dreyer; Karen Lent


Highlight-Mandate


Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

With a team praised as ‘first class from top to bottom’, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is noted for its ability to handle complex litigation, contract negotiations, and corporate transactions arising within the sports sector. With a client list encompassing high-profile athletes, players' associations, and media and entertainment corporations, the practice stands out in particular for its bespoke guidance regarding antitrust claims as well as disputes over programming rights and e-commerce issues. Andrew Tulumello co-heads the team from Washington DC and is an expert in commercial litigation and sports-related appeals, whilst Yehudah Buchweitz co-leads from New York and focuses on rights of publicity and antitrust matters. Also in Washington DC, Arianna Scavetti has vast experience acting in investigations surrounding allegations of sexual harassment and emotional abuse. Zach Schreiber and David Lender are also highlighted as key contacts in New York.

Praxisleiter:

Andrew Tulumello; Yehudah Buchweitz; Eric Hochstadt


Referenzen

‘The team was first class from top to bottom. Always responsive, informative and very, very knowledgeable and always patient in explaining details to “laypeople”. Could not be in better hands than working with this team of smart and caring people.’

‘David Lender was an incredible lead on our case from start to finish. Both he and his team were outstanding in every way. Zach Schreiber was a standout for his communication skills, knowledge, and genuine caring about clients was evident right from the start and never changed. An incredible effort and calm, thoughtful approach to all aspects of our case made a huge difference.’

 

Kernmandanten

Washington State University


National Women’s Soccer League Players Association


Zion Williamson


Tri-City ValleyCats


Norwich Sea Unicorns


CBS Sports


Major League Baseball Players Association


DIRECTV


Shohei Ohtani


Warner Bros. Discovery


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Washington State University in connection with a high-profile litigation dispute with ten departing members of the NCAA Pac-12 Conference concerning governance rights and the direction of the Pac-12 Conference going forward.
  • Advised several Minor League Baseball teams in a dispute against Major League Baseball and certain professional MLB clubs and negotiated a favourable settlement worth tens of millions of dollars which resolved a pending U.S. Supreme Court cert petition and multi-day trial scheduled in New York state court.
  • Advised Zion Williamson in connection with litigations arising out of a marketing contract he entered into prior to turning professional.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Demonstrating broad knowledge on all aspects of sports litigation, M&A, and naming rights-related matters, the Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner team maintains a client roster that encompasses professional sports teams, Olympic committees, and national sporting leagues. The practice boasts a particularly strong record of handling stadium developments and financings and also regularly advises on media contract negotiations for sports-related TV and radio stations. Ryan Davis co-heads the department from St Louis and serves as a key contact for litigation proceedings and sponsorship issues, whilst Steve Smith co-leads from Colorado Springs and chiefly advises on naming rights agreements and contractual disputes. Also in Colorado Springs, Richard Young focuses on complex commercial disputes, while New York-based Douglas Mishkin offers niche expertise on US gambling laws. Christopher Schmidt primarily handles professional and collegiate sports disputes from St Louis.

Praxisleiter:

Ryan Davis; Steve Smith


Kernmandanten

Dallas Cowboys


Houston Texans


Los Angeles Chargers


Minnesota Vikings


Seattle Seahawks


Tampa Bay Buccaneers


Tennessee Titans


National Football League


National Hockey League


National Collegiate Athletic Association


Acrisure


Airbnb


Arizona State University


Dolby


Enterprise


Lower.com


MetLife


Progressive


SoFi


Stifel


Target


Wisconsin Center District


National Football Foundation


Mountain West Conference


Big West Conference


Big Sky Conference


Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference


The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee


LA28 Olympic Committee


Sacramento River Cats


Oklahoma City Dodgers


Shuckers Baseball LLC


Horse Racing Integrity & Welfare Unit


World Anti-Doping Agency


U.S. Anti-Doping Agency


World Triathlon Corporation/IRONMAN


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in concussion, CTE and other sports injury-related claims in state and federal courts around the country, including Finnerty vs NCAA, in which the jury decided in favor of the NCAA on all counts and found that the NCAA was not negligent in the death of Cullen Finnerty.
  • Advised SoFi Technologies, Inc. on a deal to become the first presenting sponsor of the TGL, the new team golf league developed by Tiger Woods and TMRW Sports.
  • Advised QuintEvents LLC on Liberty Media Corporation’s acquisition of more than 90% of the shares of QuintEvents in a transaction valuing the company at $313m.

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP counts athletic commissions, television networks, and financial institutions in its client roster and chiefly handles media rights and crisis management issues as well as sporting disputes arising in federal and state courts. New York-based lawyer Richard Birns co-heads the team and is noted for his transactional expertise in connection with high-profile franchise acquisitions and joint ventures, while co-head Maurice Suh is based in Los Angeles and primarily advises on corporate litigation and government enforcement actions. Also operating out of Los Angeles, Kevin Masuda acts on behalf of talent and sports agencies in restructurings and strategic agreements, while Sarah Graham assists media and technology corporations with investments and betting law issues.

Praxisleiter:

Richard Birns; Maurice Suh


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Kevin Masuda; Sarah Graham


Kernmandanten

Topgolf International


Dallas Cowboys


New York Yankees


Shaquille O’Neal


RedBird Capital Partners, LLC


Diamond Sports Group


National Football League


Klutch Sports Group


James & Company LLC


LIV Golf, Inc.


Nike


FanDuel Inc.


Beemok Capital, LLC


ClubCorp


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Topgolf International on a $12bn acquisition.
  • Advised affiliates of the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Yankees on Legends’ acquisition of ASM Global.
  • Advised Shaquille O’Neal and his production company Jersey Legends on its strategic partnership with Authentic Studios, the entertainment division of Authentic Brands Group.

Loeb & Loeb LLP

Frequently providing counsel to individual investors and ownership groups in bids for professional sports franchises and esports teams, the Loeb & Loeb LLP team is active across transactions in the entertainment, financial services, and  telecommunications spaces. Based out of Los Angeles, Arash Khalili co-heads the practice and is noted for his vast experience handling M&A and joint ventures on behalf of professional athletes and public companies. Co-head Brian Socolow, who divides his time between Washington DC and New York, specializes in advising clients on media broadcast and distribution agreements as well as on trademark licenses, while Chicago-based Seth Rose and Douglas Masters stand out for their knowledge on advertising and IP issues, primarily within the tech and automotive sectors. Also in Chicago, Lisa Wiznitzer primarily focuses on joint ventures and corporate transactions.

Praxisleiter:

Arash Khalili; Brian Socolow


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Seth Rose; Scott Zolke; Douglas Masters; Brian Heidelberger; Lisa Wiznitzer


Kernmandanten

Angels Baseball, LP


SRB Management Company, LLC


Smith & Co.


Cavalier Futures


Range Media Partners


National Collegiate Athletic Association


Cynisca Cycling


Life Sports Agency


Tyler “Ninja” Blevins


Frost Bank


Simmons Bank


Miami HEAT


UFC


Viii Sports


Peak Achievement Athletics


Edge10


MSP Sports Capital


Buffalo Bills


Nexstar Media Group


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented Frost Bank in connection with an agreement with the San Antonio Spurs for a naming rights partnership for the Spurs’ home arena.
  • Advised MSP Sports Capital in connection with its acquisition of a majority interest from ESPN Productions Inc., a subsidiary of ESPN, Inc., in X Games, and in connection with negotiations for the media rights agreement between MSP and ESPN concerning continuation of X-Games telecasts on the ESPN family of networks.

O'Melveny & Myers LLP

With an established track record of advising domestic and international clients in major acquisitions, high-profile stadium developments, and complex litigation, the O'Melveny & Myers LLP practice is highly regarded for its corporate and IP expertise in the sporting space. Amy Siegel and Molly Lens co-head the Centuy City-based team, with the former serving as a key contact for licensing arrangements and naming rights agreements while the latter specialises in all aspects of employment, unfair competition, and business tort law issues. Lindsay Conner is an expert on matters related to broadcasting and digital content, whilst Jeff Gordon frequently represents athletes and sporting franchises in business disputes. Daniel Petrocelli focuses on securities, media, and sports law affairs.

Praxisleiter:

Amy Siegel; Molly Lens


Kernmandanten

Fresno State University


Liberty Media Corporation


Phoenix Suns


Stanford University


Toyota Motor North America


World Wrestling Entertainment


State of Hawaii


TD Bank


Top Rank


UCLA


USA Water Polo


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Stanford University on its decision to leave the Pac-12 and join the Atlantic Coast Conference.
  • Advised Toyota North America on a multi-year sponsorship agreement designating Toyota as the Official Automotive Partner of the National Football League.
  • Represented the Phoenix Suns in a dispute regarding certain backend telecast rights held by Diamond Sports Net Arizona, LLC.

Herrick, Feinstein LLP

The team at Herrick, Feinstein LLP comprehensively handles the corporate, IP, employment, and litigation aspects of sports law for a roster of international and domestic clients including sports franchises, associations, and corporates entities. The New York-based practice is jointly headed by Irwin Kishner and Daniel Etna, who focus on M&A, entertainment law, and stadium financing matters in addition to advising on naming rights agreements and debt financings for professional sports teams, as well as by Eric Stabler, who chiefly advises owners, investors, and sports networks on financial and corporate transactions, Morris DeFeo, who is knowledgeable on corporate governance matters, and Liliana Chang, who focuses on joint ventures. Also recommended is Tara Guarneri-Ferrara, who maintains close client relationships with both leagues and financial institutions.

Praxisleiter:

Irwin Kishner; Daniel Etna; Eric Stabler; Morris DeFeo; Liliana Chang


Referenzen

‘We have a challenging financing assignment underway, and our attorney Joel Wagman has been exceptionally responsive and creative.’

‘Focused and available.’

 

Kernmandanten

New York Yankees


Yankee Global Enterprises LLC


Yankees Entertainment & Sports Network


Legends Hospitality Management, LLC


New York Racing Association


Liv Golf


New York Islanders Hockey Club


New York Mets


Sterling Equities


Sterling Entertainment Enterprises


Avenue Capital Group


Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc


D.C. United


Lelands Collectibles, Inc.


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised the co-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks co-owner on the sale of a 25% percent stake in the team to the owners of the Cleveland Browns in a transaction valued at $3.5bn.
  • Advised Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc., a subsidiary of Formula 1 owner Liberty Media Corporation, on its sponsorship agreement and partnership with Aristocrat Technologies, Inc.
  • Advised D.C. United on its agreement with Attain Sports & Entertainment to sell a controlling ownership stake in United Soccer League Championship club Loudoun United FC.

Katten

Providing an extensive range of services within the sporting space, the Katten practice is capable of offering both transactional and contentious advice to major sporting leagues, stadium developers and financial institutions. Adam Klein leads the Chicago-based team and specializes in assisting with minority investments, M&A, and debt financing transactions, while Daniel Render offers bespoke advice to clients on media rights and sponsorship agreements from the Los Angeles office. Also in Chicago, Jason Gorczynski is knowledgeable in commercial real estate transactions, and Valentina Famparska primarily concentrates on leveraged buyouts and private equity investments.

Praxisleiter:

Adam Klein


Kernmandanten

Baltimore Ravens


M&T Bank Stadium


Charlotte Hornets buyer group


Golden State Warriors


Goldman Sachs


Keystone Sports and Entertainment LLC


Larry H. Miller Company


Los Angeles Clippers


Memphis Grizzlies


Milwaukee Bucks


New York Islanders


Oakland Athletics


Seattle Kraken


Silver Chalice


The United States Soccer Federation


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised the ownership group on the acquisition of the Charlotte Hornets NBA team from Michael Jordan.
  • Advised the Baltimore Ravens and M&T Bank Stadium on negotiating a long-term ticketing agreement and sponsorship agreement opposite SeatGeek.

Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP

Offering the full spectrum of corporate, employment, and IP services to major US sports leagues, universities, and investors, the Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP practice handles a wide array of matters related to broadcasting agreements, debt finance transactions, franchise acquisitions, and commercial disputes. Boston-based Andrew White and Jack Concannon chiefly focus on M&A and private equity investments across the sports and tech sectors, while Washington lawyer Jocelyn Cuttino primarily advises on employment and labor issues. White and Cuttino co-head the practice with Philadelphia lawyer Andrew Rocks, an expert for joint ventures in the sporting space. Further key contacts include Boston lawyer Doneld Shelkey, who stands out for his advice on commercial contract and licensing matters.

Praxisleiter:

Andrew White; Andrew Rocks; Jocelyn Cuttino


Kernmandanten

U.S. Soccer Federation


MSP Sports Capital


Family Office of David Blitzer


Boston Unity Soccer Partners


PENN Entertainment


Brown University


Capital One National Association


McLaren Racing


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented Boston Unity Soccer Partners in its agreement to be awarded expansion rights for the NWSL 15th team.
  • Advised MSP Sports Capital on its acquisition of a majority interest in X Games from ESPN Productions Inc., a subsidiary of ESPN Inc.
  • Represented PENN Entertainment, Inc. in an adjudicatory hearing before the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.

Thompson Hine LLP

Representing major NFL, NBA, and MLS teams in renovation projects and risk management programs, the Thompson Hine LLP practice displays extensive knowledge in both the construction and sporting space. Based out of Cleveland, Alan Ritchie heads the group, frequently advising clients on project finance and development agreements, while Jeffrey Appelbaum acts on behalf of design professionals and construction managers across the US and Canada. Jack Clark consistently assists with structuring and negotiating agreements for construction and financing initiatives from Columbus.

Praxisleiter:

Alan Ritchie


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jeffrey Appelbaum; Jack Clark


Referenzen

‘Thompson Hine’s value to our project has been tremendous. Their participation in the project has been extremely valuable to us as a client both in terms of accurately assessing risk throughout the construction of the project as well as avoidance of unnecessary litigation expenses.’

‘Jeff Appelbaum is extremely well-versed in risk assessment and instrumental in clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of contracting parties. He is solution-based in his approach to a project and works in the best interest of their client throughout the development of the project.’

Kernmandanten

Haslam Sports Group


Cleveland Guardians


Jacksonville Jaguars LLC


Cobb County


Bank of America, N.A.


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised the Jacksonville Jaguars on the drafting and negotiation of a project architect agreement and construction contract as well as on structuring insurance and the risk management program for the Stadium of the Future.
  • Advised The Cleveland Guardians Baseball Club on its $200m Ballpark Improvement and Renovation project.
  • Advised on the development and construction of Lower.com Field, a $314 million, 20,000-seat MLS Stadium.

Vinson & Elkins LLP

Leveraging its expertise in patent litigation, data privacy compliance, and commercial disputes, the Vinson & Elkins LLP practice regularly acts on behalf of major sports leagues, franchises, and media corporations. Operating out of Austin, Hilary Preston has in-depth experience in complex IP claims and is also capable of handling ecommerce matters, whilst Washington DC-based Zachary Terwilliger regularly represents clients in federal investigations and trials. In New York, Michael Kurzer specializes in technology-focused transactions and investments.

Praxisleiter:

Hilary Preston


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Zach Terwilliger; Michael Kurzer


Kernmandanten

Banner Seventeen, LLC


Brooklyn Events Center, LLC


Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment LLC


Cavaliers Operating Company, LLC


Chicago Professional Sports Corporation


Detroit Pistons Basketball Company


Hornets Basketball Holdings, LLC


Houston Astros, LLC


Memphis Basketball, LLC


Milwaukee Bucks, LLC


Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Limited


National Basketball Association


National Football Association


New Orleans Pelicans NBA, LLC


NHL Enterprises, L.P.


Orlando Magic, Ltd.


Pacers Basketball, LLC


Rocket Ball, Ltd.


San Antonio Spurs, L.L.C.


The Los Angeles Lakers, Inc.


Washington Sports & Entertainment


World Champions Rodeo Alliance, LLC


Wilkinson Stekloff

Demonstrating a strong track record in major antitrust class-action lawsuits and defamation cases, the Washington DC-based Wilkinson Stekloff practice is highly regarded for its representation of clients in commercial courts. The team is co-headed by Brian Stekloff, James Rosenthal, and Beth Wilkinson, who bring extensive knowledge of litigious matters and enforcement actions to the offering, while Kosta Stojilkovic and the ‘outstanding’ Rakesh Kilaru are also highlighted as key contacts. Cali Arat is noted for leading on the practice's close client relationship with the NCAA, and Kieran Gostin stands out for his knowledge of product liability proceedings.

Praxisleiter:

Beth Wilkinson; Brian Stekloff; James Rosenthal


Referenzen

‘Rakesh Kilaru is an outstanding lawyer and strategist.’

Kernmandanten

National Collegiate Athletic Association


National Football League


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented the NCAA in a putative antitrust class action lawsuit brought by current and former student-athletes under the Sherman Act challenging NCAA rules that prohibit or limit student-athletes from receiving compensation for the commercial use of their name, image, and likeness.
  • Represented the NFL, its 32 member teams, and NFL Enterprises in a certified class action lawsuit challenging the NFL’s multibillion-dollar exclusive distributorship arrangement with DIRECTV for Sunday Ticket.
  • Represented the NCAA in a defamation lawsuit in Indiana Commercial Court.

Eversheds Sutherland

Demonstrating substantial strength in matters related to sports betting, data privacy, and corporate transactions, the team at Eversheds Sutherland maintains relationships with a client roster encompassing professional sports teams, major event organizers, and investors. Based out of San Francisco, Baird D. Fogel heads the team and specializes in advising professional franchises and athletes on all aspects of transactional matters. Fogel is also noted for his ability to advise on energy issues relating to the construction of arenas.

Praxisleiter:

Baird Fogel


Kernmandanten

Las Vegas Raiders


Haas Automation


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised the Las Vegas Raiders on negotiating an energy buy agreement with Nevada Energy for use by Allegiant Stadium, allowing the stadium to be 100% renewably powered.
  • Advised Haas Automation on its continuing move to Henderson, Nevada, including negotiations for an energy buy agreement with Nevada Energy and the Governor’s Office for Economic Development for use by the new manufacturing plant facility in Henderson, Nevada.

Hecker Fink LLP

High-profile athletes and professional sports leagues rely on Hecker Fink LLP's strong track record of handling contentious issues in the sport space, including gender discrimination and sexual harassment claims. New York-based Roberta Kaplan heads the practice and is an expert on commercial and public interest litigation, while Julie Fink assists clients with the implementation of anti-harassment and retaliation policies. Gabrielle Tenzer focuses on complex civil claims, and Shawn Crowley is noted for her expertise in national security trials.

Praxisleiter:

Roberta Kaplan


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Julie Fink; Gabrielle Tenzer; Shawn Crowley; Kate Doniger


Kernmandanten

National Basketball Association


Tiger Woods


Highlight-Mandate


  • Representing the NBA in connection with a third-party subpoena issued to it in a Tennessee case.
  • Represented Tiger Woods in connection with a third-party subpoena in the matter of Klayman v. PGA Tour et al., which alleges violations of Florida’s antitrust and competition laws.

Perkins Coie LLP

Showcasing ‘fantastic attention to detail’, the Perkins Coie LLP practice offers tailored advice on all aspects of stadium construction and financing alongside handling content licensing and IP portfolio management affairs. Stewart Landefeld operates out of Seattle and specializes in corporate governance and securities compliance matters, New York-based Shirin Malkani focuses on sports media rights and emerging technologies, and Jamie Schafer, who divides her time between Washington DC and New York, routinely represents entities and individuals in complex criminal and regulatory affairs.

Praxisleiter:

Stewart Landefeld; Shirin Malkani; Jamie Schafer


Referenzen

‘The attorneys at Perkins have fantastic attention to detail, are creative, and understand that all legal questions are business questions at their core.’

Kernmandanten

YouTube


National Pickelball League


Google


Seattle Seahawks


The Baseball Club of Seattle


Torneos y Competencias S.A.


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Alphabet on its negotiation for exclusive rights to the NFL’s Sunday Ticket offering, plus a renewal and renegotiation of all other deals between YouTube and the NFL for distribution of NFL content.
  • Represented Torneos in the prosecution and investigation of FIFA officials and others, which alleged bribery and racketeering in connection with the acquisition and sale of rights to major worldwide soccer tournaments.
  • Advised The Baseball Club of Seattle on acquisition, capital transfer, development, and construction matters as well as all aspects of major ongoing capital improvements at T-Mobile Park, the 48,000-seat home to the Seattle Mariners, as well as on adjacent projects in the SoDo area of Seattle.