Parity vs. Dominance in MLS
In an interesting recent interview, former U.S. Soccer national team coach Bruce Arena talks about competitive balance in Major League Soccer. While we sports economists …
Go Big Red! Or is it Stay Big Red?
The Big 12 has reportedly given an ultimatum to Nebraska (and Missouri) to decide if they are going to board the Big 12 plane or …
NFLPA: "Fantasy Sports Must Pay — On Two"
In a preemptive move, CBS has launched a court case, claiming pressure and a likely suit from the NFLPA regarding use of players’ names and …
Soccer, and Hell Freezing Over
A couple of weeks ago, my undergraduate seminar engaged in a discussion of Michael Allen Gillespie’s excellent essay “Players and Spectators: Sports and Ethical Training …
Unfair Labor Practices
The NHL has filed an unfair labor practice complaint with the National Labor Relations Board. Here is an ESPN.com story. Here’s a Washington Post story. …
Information, Reputation, and the Impact of College Athletics: My story about TCU
[Note: this was originally posted at EclectEcon, but Phil urged me to cross post it here. I’ve revised it slightly.] Way back in the days …
MLB Closers — Role Players with Rock Star Reputations
In 1988 for the Oakland Athletics, Tony LaRussa initiated his strategy of using Dennis Eckersley as a 9th inning, only-when-leading relief pitcher – a “closer.” …
Frustrated With the Big XII Bowl Selection Process?
“Frustrated.” “Slighted.” “Snubbed.” Those awords describe the feelings many Missouri fans, adminstrators, players, and coaches have towards Mizzou’s selection to play Navy in the 2008 …
Red Knights smell blood
Following on from Skip’s post a couple of weeks ago, the group of would-be Manchester United owners who call themselves the Red Knights have retained …
Edmonton Arena Deal Finalized
The Edmonton City Council passed a bill yesterday authorizing a package amounting to $480 million in funding for construction of a new arena in downtown …