Core Insights - The sports industry is facing significant turmoil due to the arrest of over 30 individuals linked to the NBA, involving illegal betting and game rigging during the 2023–2024 season, which has raised concerns among investors [1][2]. Group 1: NBA Scandal Impact - The investigation has been described as "mind-boggling" and spans 11 states, involving millions of dollars [1]. - Prosecutors indicate that the scheme involved insider information and organized crime, damaging the league's reputation [2]. Group 2: Warner Bros (WBD) - Warner Bros, a primary broadcasting partner of the NBA, has seen its stock nearly double this year, trading at $21.25, up 3.5% on the day [2]. - The company is currently evaluating multiple acquisition bids while planning to split into two separate entities: a streaming and studios business and a global networks business [5]. - CEO David Zaslav stated that this strategy aims to unlock the full value of their assets, making WBD a company to watch [5]. Group 3: Madison Square Garden Sports (MSGS) - MSGS, managing the New York Knicks, has experienced an 18% stock increase over the past six months, trading at $226.16 [6]. - The upcoming Q3 earnings report on November 7 could be influenced by the broader league's reputation, despite the Knicks not being directly involved in the scandal [7]. - MSGS reported a $22.6 million loss at the end of the previous fiscal year, despite playoff revenue, and has a total team valuation of around $13.5 billion, while trading at an enterprise value of $6.6 billion [9][10]. Group 4: DraftKings (DKNG) - DraftKings has faced a nearly 20% decline in stock value recently, trading at $34.70, as the integrity of sports betting is questioned [11]. - The company is attempting to regain investor interest through a strategic partnership with Polymarket to enter the prediction market space [13]. - DraftKings plans to launch a new mobile app covering various markets, which could attract attention from existing and potential investors [14].

In a world with no sure bets, uh it seems safe to say that the interest in gambling will keep growing. Uh Contessa, the sweep stakes is back. What.Well, you know, look, we are watching the growth in the gambling landcape just morph and change around the United States. It's a it's happening at a dramatic pace with ways to wager that go way beyond a sports book or a slot machine. For instance, you have Joe these sweep stakes gaming where players use virtual coins, but they can also buy in with real money to p ...