Fanalytics with Mike Lewis

Future Fandom Insights: The WNBA's Growing Influence and Marketing Impact

In this episode of the Fanalytics podcast's Future Fandom series, we explore the rising influence of the WNBA and its significant stories from women's collegiate and professional basketball in 2023 and 2024. The discussion covers foundational stories of WNBA fandom, analyzes fandom dimensions using the WILD framework, and examines the future impacts of demographics, technology, and marketing. We delve into the challenges and opportunities for the WNBA to shift from national appeal to increased local fandom, while acknowledging the critical role of marketing and media in shaping the narrative. Additionally, personal observations about Caitlin Clark's marketability and the league's strategic decisions provide deeper insight into the WNBA's potential growth. The next topic will focus on the upcoming Summer Olympics.

00:00 Welcome to the Fanalytics Podcast

00:08 Introduction to the WNBA

01:01 Future Fandom Series Overview

01:27 Foundations of Fandom

02:06 The WILD Framework

02:49 Forces Shaping Future Fandom

03:54 Analyzing WNBA's Foundational Stories

10:11 Current Hype and Rivalries

12:26 Demographics and Technology Impact

15:06 Marketing and Global Reach

16:59 Future Projections for WNBA

19:39 Personal Observations and Conclusion

23:33 Next Episode Preview

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

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We are still taking a short break from our usual publishing schedule for new episodes this summer. But to keep you entertained, we've handpicked some of our best episodes for you to listen to during the break.

Jay Busbee (@jaybusbee of Twitter and IG) and Professor Mike Lewis are offering a short course on “Storytelling and Analytics” at Emory University. Jay is a senior writer at Yahoo Sports.  The course is being taught for our campus MBA program, but we are taking the opportunity to offer (parts of) the course a little more broadly by leveraging some modern means of communication.  

 

Follow along at: https://www.fandomanalytics.com

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Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

And make sure to follow us on social! 

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We are still taking a short break from our usual publishing schedule for new episodes this summer. But to keep you entertained, we've handpicked some of our best episodes for you to listen to during the break.

In this podcast, Emory Marketing Professor Mike Lewis discusses how culture wars impact fandoms in sports and entertainment. Lewis defines culture wars as the conflicts that arise when different groups have opposing views on cultural values, norms, and beliefs.

Professor Lewis notes that these conflicts can seep into the products that fans are passionate about, including sports and entertainment. Lewis cites examples of how culture wars impact fandoms like the Star Wars community - as well as the change in how sports fans interpret the actions of now controversial players like Rudy Gobert.

Lewis also discusses the challenge cultural division poses for professional sports leagues. He notes that sports have historically been seen as a way to bring people together, but in recent years, they have become more politicized. This has led to challenges for leagues as they try to navigate issues such as player protests during the national anthem.

Check out the latest news on the podcast here: 

https://linktr.ee/fanalyticspodcast

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

And make sure to follow us on social! 

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We're taking a short break from uploading new episodes this summer. But to keep you entertained, we've handpicked some of our best episodes for you to listen to during the break. Kicking things off is an episode about how commercialized sports experiences impact fandom.

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Fanalytics Podcast, brought to you by the Emory Marketing Analytics Center. Listen in as we discuss how different generations view sports, the effects of marketing strategies on the fan experience, and how commercialization might be impacting fan loyalty. 

But we're not just talking sports. The world of politics also has its fair share of fandom. As we look ahead to the 2024 Republican primary season, we introduce what will be an ongoing discussion on branding strategies used by potential candidates like Tim Scott, Ron DeSantis, Donald Trump, Nikki Haley, and Mike Pence. And we'll round this up by continuing our ongoing conversation regarding the intersection of politics and sports. 

Fasten your seatbelts as we embark on this thrilling journey through the world of sports, entertainment, and politics like you’ve never heard before!

Check out the latest news on the podcast here: 

https://linktr.ee/fanalyticspodcast

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

And make sure to follow us on social! 

Instagram: @fanalyticsmikelewis

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In this Fanalytics Podcast episode, Mike Lewis explores the phenomenon known as the 'Caitlin Clark Effect.' Starting with Clark's impressive college career, her rise to fame in 2023, and her impact on women's sports, particularly the WNBA, this interlude episode discusses whether her stardom and influence can be sustained in the long term. Mike delves into the economic and social theories behind superstardom, examining if Caitlin can replicate her success at the professional level. He addresses challenges, market reactions, and potential backlash, aiming to answer if Caitlin Clark will become a transformative figure in the WNBA. This episode sets the stage for a more comprehensive analysis on the future of WNBA fandom later in the month.

00:00 Introduction to the Future of Fandom

00:28 Caitlin Clark: The Sports Story of 2024

01:22 The Caitlin Clark Effect on the WNBA

02:58 Theories of Superstardom

06:10 Caitlin Clark's College Stardom

07:45 Challenges and Projections for Caitlin Clark

12:45 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

And make sure to follow us on social! 

Instagram: @fanalyticsmikelewis

Twitter: @fanalyticsmike

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In this episode of Fanalytics, host Michael Lewis discusses the upcoming changes and direction for the show. He introduces new partnerships, the shift to using Substack for detailed content, and the focus on analyzing the future of fandom across different sports and cultural entities. Key topics include the impact of technology, demographics, and marketing on fandom, and an introduction to the W.I.L.D. framework for assessing fandom. Upcoming focus areas will include the WNBA, the Olympics, and collegiate sports in the NIL era.

00:00 Welcome to the Fanalytics Podcast

00:05 Exciting Changes and Bookkeeping

00:47 Introducing Fandom Analytics and Substack

02:08 Focus on the Future of Fandom

03:01 The Importance of Fandom in Culture

04:05 Project Overview: Future Fandom

05:44 Technology's Impact on Fandom

08:18 Demographics and Fandom

14:21 The Role of Marketing in Fandom

25:09 The WILD Framework for Analyzing Fandom

39:34 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

And make sure to follow us on social! 

Instagram: @fanalyticsmikelewis

Twitter: @fanalyticsmike

YouTube: @fanalyticsmike

TikTok: @fanalyticspodcast

This  Fanalytics podcast episode features ho Mike Lewis and Doug Battle discussing their immersive experiences as fans following significant college basketball games, particularly focusing on Illinois' loss to Connecticut in the Elite Eight. They share moments of intense fandom, the emotional highs and lows that come with following a team closely, and the rollercoaster that is college basketball fandom. Furthermore, they discuss the implications of Illinois' performance, the significance of UConn's exceptional run, and the broader trends in college basketball—ranging from recruitment surprises to changes in the style of play that harkens back to older, more physical basketball eras. The conversation also shifts to reflect on the changing landscapes of the WNBA and women's college basketball, highlighting players like Caitlin Clark and the rising attention these games are receiving. Additionally, they touch upon topics like the transfer portal's impact on college sports, the potential demand for stars like Caitlin Clark, and the peculiar dynamics of minor league football. Through these discussions, Mike and Doug weave a narrative of changing sports landscapes, the undying passion fans hold for their teams, and how sports media and fandom are evolving.

00:00 Welcome to Fanalytics: A Deep Dive into Fandom and Sports Analytics

00:13 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Being a Sports Fan

01:30 The Unique Experience of Watching Your Team in the Elite Eight

02:01 Fan Reactions and the Joy of Sports Fandom

03:09 The Aftermath of a Team's Loss and Disengagement from the Tournament

03:36 Exploring the Storylines of the Final Four Teams

08:26 The Impact of Big Men in College Basketball

10:21 The Transition from College to NBA: Draft Prospects and the Changing Landscape

14:44 The Evolution of College Basketball and Its Distinction from the NBA

16:55 The Dynamics of Women's College Basketball and Media Coverage

25:52 The WNBA's Golden Opportunity with Caitlin Clark

26:14 Team Names and Their Problematic Histories

26:53 Strategizing WNBA's Future with Caitlin Clark

28:16 The Big Three's Offer to Caitlin Clark: A Curveball for the WNBA

32:39 Exploring the Financial Dynamics of Women's Sports

34:28 The Quirky World of Minor League Football

42:09 Innovative Ideas for Spring Football and Women's Flag Football

51:09 Concluding Thoughts on Sports Fandom and Analytics

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

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In this podcast episode, Emory Marketing Professor Mike Lewis talks about the limited coverage of men's college basketball pre-March, its popularity spike during the NCAA tournament, and the fervent fandom it attracts as the premier event in sports.

In this podcast episode, Emory Marketing Professor Mike Lewis discusses lack of men's college basketball coverage before March, the sport's explosion in popularity during the NCAA tournament, and fandom surrounding the greatest tournament in all of sports.

The discussion shifts to women's college basketball, noting its significant media attention and the unique dynamics of its tournament. And in the show's final segment, Professor Lewis delves into the NFL's upcoming draft hype, Deion Sanders' impact on college football at Colorado, and the gambling scandal involving Shohei Ohtani.00:00 Welcome to Fanalytics: The Madness of March

00:45 The Casual Fan's March Awakening

01:14 Discovering Hidden Gems in March Madness

03:04 The Unique Charm of College Basketball

04:04 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Being a Fan

08:18 The Underdog Stories and Cinderella Moments

09:44 The Women's Tournament: A Different Perspective

14:11 The Fandom Phenomenon: Brackets and Beyond

15:47 The Changing Narrative Around Star Players

17:49 The Magic of March: Parents, Players, and Passion

21:58 Reflecting on the Tournament's Coverage and Impact

27:23 Exploring the Economics of College Sports Coaching Salaries

28:00 The Subsidization Dilemma in Women's College Sports

32:31 The Hype Machine: NBA's Influence on Women's Basketball

36:59 The Fascinating Fandom of Caitlin Clark

44:24 NFL Draft Speculations and the Hype Around Prospects

50:01 Deion Sanders' Impact on College Football and NFL Draft

54:44 Pop Culture Detour: The New Roadhouse Movie Review

55:48 Shohei Ohtani's Alleged Gambling Scandal

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

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This in-depth discussion covers a range of topics from the effects of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) changes on college sports to an analysis of political fandom impacting potential vice presidential picks for Donald Trump. The talk delves into how NIL has transformed college football and basketball, highlighting the revenue-sharing debates and the emergence of collectives. It also examines the evolving landscape of college sports fandom, the implications of transfer portals, and the impact on team and fan connections. Additionally, the conversation shifts to political fandom, analyzing data related to Trump's vice-presidential candidate preferences across generations, focusing on Tucker Carlson, Ron DeSantis, and others, while also touching on the role of fans' cultural preferences in political outcomes. The podcast provides a comprehensive look at the intersection of fandom in sports and politics, shedding light on current changes and future trends.

00:00 Welcome to Fanalytics: Diving into NCAA Madness

00:23 NIL's Impact on College Sports: A Deep Dive

01:50 The Evolution of NIL: From Intent to Reality

04:26 The Complex Dynamics of College Sports Financing

07:59 The Transfer Portal's Game-Changing Role

09:48 The Changing Face of College Basketball

16:18 March Madness: Predictions, Upsets, and Cinderellas

20:02 The Media Landscape and March Madness Coverage

22:42 The Future of College Sports: Transfers and Team Dynamics

33:25 The Buzz Around Justin Fields' Trade

35:00 Analyzing Russell Wilson's Performance and Fit with the Steelers

36:17 The Steelers' Controversial Quarterback Strategy

38:09 Mike Tomlin's Coaching Challenges and Opportunities

39:34 Exploring the Potential of Justin Fields with the Steelers

43:47 Quarterback Controversies and Team Dynamics in the NFL

44:43 The Intriguing Case of Caleb Williams

46:54 The Intersection of Personality and Performance in Sports

51:16 Fandom in Politics: Analyzing VP Candidates for Trump

57:45 The Unpredictable Nature of Fandom Across Sports and Politics

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

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In this installment of the Fanalytics podcast, Professor Mike Lewis from Emory University shares his insights on NFL free agency, focusing on the quarterback and running back sectors. He also delves into the shifting landscape of media attention surrounding men's and women's college basketball with March Madness on the horizon. Additionally, the podcast explores the ramifications of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) regulations, the unionization efforts within the Dartmouth men’s basketball team, and the recent unveiling of bison sculptures near the Buffalo Bills stadium. Wrapping up, the discussion looks forward to Professor Lewis's upcoming 2024 Next Generation Fandom Survey.

00:00 Welcome to Fanalytics: Gearing Up for NCAA Tournaments

00:18 The Spotlight on Women's College Basketball

00:28 The Unforgettable Fight: South Carolina vs. LSU

00:31 NFL Free Agency Moves and Quarterback Market

01:57 Social Media's Impact on Sports Engagement

05:47 Men's College Basketball: The Secondary Sport of March?

06:01 The Rising Popularity of Women's College Basketball

10:44 The Challenge of Identifying College Basketball Stars

12:07 The Evolution of College Basketball and Its Stars

21:22 Exploring the Media's Role in Shaping Sports Narratives

23:51 The Future of College Sports in the NIL Era

24:47 The Evolving Landscape of College Sports

25:14 The Impact of Transfer Portals and Fan Engagement

25:56 The Shifting Dynamics of College Basketball and Football

26:36 The Uncertain Future of Major College Conferences

27:44 NCAA Football's Return to Gaming Consoles

28:50 The NFL's Quarterback Conundrum: Evaluating Talent and Market Value

30:05 The Justin Fields Dilemma: Potential and Trade Speculations

38:02 The Complex Dynamics of NFL Quarterback Salaries

42:24 The Controversial Dynamics Within the Giants Fanbase

45:22 The NFL's Running Back Carousel: A Dime a Dozen?

47:28 Unionization in College Sports: Dartmouth Leads the Way

49:09 Buffalo Bills' Unique Fandom: Bison Statues and Fan Antics

50:32 Exploring Political Fandom Through Data Analytics

Fanalytics is a part of the Professors.fm podcast network - making sense of the world with top scholars.

Check out more Fanalytics content at fandomanalytics.com and fanalytics.substack.com. 

And make sure to follow us on social! 

Instagram: @fanalyticsmikelewis

Twitter: @fanalyticsmike

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TikTok: @fanalyticspodcast