Apple Inc. announced its foray into live sports via a multiyear media rights deal with MLB that will see the technology giant's Apple TV+ service stream a weekly "Friday Night Baseball" doubleheader, along with a live highlight show every weeknight called "MLB Big Inning." Apple, which is reportedly also considered a front-runner for the NFL's Sunday Ticket out-of-market package, has exclusivity for the Friday night MLB games, meaning they will not be carried by participating teams' regional sports networks. (Sports Business Journal)
The Seattle Seahawks reportedly agreed to trade franchise quarterback Russell Wilson and a 2022 fourth-round pick to the Denver Broncos in exchange for quarterback Drew Lock, tight end Noah Fant, defensive lineman Shelby Harris and five draft picks, including two first-round selections. (The Athletic) Meanwhile, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who won his second NFL MVP award last season, confirmed he plans to remain with the franchise that drafted him following speculation that he could go elsewhere. (The Athletic)
CBS and Turner Sports executives said they have "for all practical purposes" sold out of advertising inventory for the NCAA men's basketball tournament and earned "close to double digit" rate increases from last year's fanless event, when 30-second spots were sold for as much as $2 million during the title game. Jon Bogusz, executive vice president of CBS sports sales and marketing, said the networks earned "record-setting revenues" this year after taking in an estimated $1 billion in 2021. (Adweek)
ESPN signs Doris Burke to multi-year extension, will anchor NBA coverage Chris Cwik, Yahoo Sports
ESPN is locking up one of the biggest names in NBA coverage for the foreseeable future. The network announced a multi-year extension with Doris Burke on Tuesday. ESPN promised Burke will be involved in "high profile" NBA games in both the regular season and playoffs throughout her new deal.
Jared Carrabis leaving Barstool for DraftKings Ryan Glasspiegel, New York Post
Jared Carrabis is leaving Barstool Sports for DraftKings, The Post has learned. Carrabis, a prominent national baseball opinion personality in sports media, had been at Barstool since 2014.
U.K. Premier League Suspends Agreement With Russian Broadcast Partner, Donates $1.3 Million to Ukraine Naman Ramachandran, Variety
The U.K. Premier League soccer tournament has suspended its agreement with its Russian broadcast partner and will donate 1 million British pounds ($1.3 million) to support the people of Ukraine. The Rambler deal is estimated to be worth $7.9 million annually to the Premier League.
Mike Nealy steps down as Fiesta Bowl executive director after eight years Jenna Ortiz, Arizona Republic
Following eight years as the executive director of the Fiesta Bowl, Mike Nealy is stepping down. During Nealy's tenure, he helped the Fiesta Bowl become one of the top college football games during bowl season.
