CNBC Sport

UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma joins Alex Sherman to discuss the state of the WNBA, his demanding coaching philosophy, the UConn dynasty, NIL and recruiting, and legendary rivalries with Pat Summitt and Dawn Staley. Auriemma also reflects on sustained success, leadership, accountability and what could eventually make him retire.

Shaquille O’Neal reveals how Dunkman aims to transform elite dunking into a global professional sport with major prize money and objective judging. Then, incoming Major League Soccer commissioner Larry Berg outlines his MLS 3.0 vision, including roster investment, youth development, league growth and why promotion and relegation may not work in North America.

ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro explains how the network plans to grow amid cord-cutting, rising sports-rights costs and the shift to direct-to-consumer streaming. He also discusses ESPN’s interest in future World Cup rights, local NBA broadcasts, its expanding NFL relationship and the role of ESPN within Disney’s broader streaming strategy.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen joins Alex Sherman to discuss Super Bowl expectations, fatherhood, sleep, brand partnerships, New Balance, investing, and life after football. Allen shares how he manages pressure, thinks about his personal brand, and prepares for the next chapter of his NFL career.

Rafael Nadal reflects on his Netflix documentary, early training in Mallorca, rivalry with Roger Federer, retirement, injuries and what comes next after one of tennis’s greatest careers. He also shares why Novak Djokovic’s numbers define the GOAT debate and what Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner would need to achieve to enter that conversation. Then, Alex speaks with CNBC’s Michael Ozanian about his upcoming Empires Valuations list.

MLS commissioner Don Garber breaks down why the 2026 World Cup is “rocket fuel” for Major League Soccer—and what metrics (attendance, media coverage, social growth, and player movement) will prove it. He also explains MLS 3.0, the league’s post-World Cup calendar shift, and what he’d change about the Apple TV model as MLS plans its next media rights chapter. Alex also speaks with Mark Trübenbacher, CEO of Stadium Growth Lighting. They are the company in charge of preserving the grass on every World Cup pitch.

From Roland Garros, Brad Gilbert breaks down the current health of pro tennis, why player unions could reshape prize money and working conditions, and what life looks like for players outside the top 100. He also explains the week-to-week business of tennis coaching and reflects on his long ESPN run, his move to Tennis Channel, and his 2026 French Open picks. Then, Alex Sherman talks with CNBC valuations guru Michael Ozanian about the business of the New York Knicks.

Ronda Rousey breaks down why many UFC fighters are effectively paid at “poverty level” and argues real competition—powered by streaming platforms like Netflix—is the clearest path to better fighter compensation. She also shares the business story behind her upcoming comeback fight against Gina Carano and what a new MMA distribution model could mean for the sport. Then, Golden State Valkyries President Jess Smith explains what’s really driving the franchise’s $1 billion valuation—from Chase Center economics and premium inventory to partnerships built as a distinct WNBA product. She also breaks down how the new WNBA CBA, expanded media distribution, and rapid league expansion could accelerate long-term valuations across women’s sports.

F1 Academy Managing Director Susie Wolff joins Alex Sherman to explain how the series is removing financial barriers, developing female racing talent, and changing perceptions in motorsport. They also discuss the impact of racing docuseries, the growing female F1 fan base, and what it will take to see a woman reach Formula One. Alex Sherman also speaks with sports business strategist Rick Horrow to break down how the NFL Draft became a tentpole business event—and why “monetizing hope” works so well for the league. They also explore rising valuations in leagues like the NWSL, the investor spillover effect from the NFL/NBA, and what Formula One’s move to Apple TV could signal for premium sports media rights.

CNBC's Lillian Rizzo joins Alex Sherman on what may really be behind the Justice Department's antitrust investigation into the NFL. Then, Alex speaks with Shelly Cayette-Weston, President of Business Operations for the Charlotte Hornets, about how the organization is strengthening its business foundation while building a winning culture on and off the court.She details what the president of business operations role looks like for an NBA franchise, from overseeing ticket sales, sponsorships, operations, and community engagement to leading fan experience strategy across more than 150 events at Spectrum Center each year. She also explains how the Hornets are measuring progress through attendance growth, business performance, and deeper community connection.

CNBC’s Alex Sherman speak with Sports Professor Rick Horrow about NBA expansion and March Madness, Then, Landon Donovan joins Alex to break down what the 2026 World Cup could mean for U.S. soccer, what “success” looks like for the USMNT, and how MLS can capitalize on the moment. They also discuss the league’s Apple TV strategy, Donovan’s retirement mindset, and his candid experiences with depression and therapy.

Tyler Reddick breaks down what’s fueling his historic three-race NASCAR winning streak—how past mistakes shaped his approach, what winning changes for sponsors, and where the sport is headed. He also shares a standout Michael Jordan story, talks the 23XI Racing lawsuit resolution, and explains how teams are starting to explore AI with racing data.