Sports Business Classroom Audio Experience

• Gaia Accoto | Sports Reporter & Content Creator at Sky Italia | Covering Basketball on a Global Stage (EP.119)

  In this episode of the SBC Audio Experience, host Riley Sager sits down with Gaia Accoto, a sports media professional who has built an impressive career as a reporter & a host. As a World Feed Reporter for EuroLeague and Sky Sport, Gaia has covered major basketball events worldwide, balancing in-depth reporting with the fast-paced demands of live sports coverage.The balance between objective reporting and building trust with players and coachesHer experience at NBA Summer League and working alongside a strong network of women in sportsHow social media is shaping modern sports journalism and her approach to digital content creationMemorable moments from covering EuroLeague and major international eventsWith a passion for storytelling and a deep understanding of the game, Gaia shares insights into the evolving sports media landscape and what’s next for her in 2025. Tune in for a conversation on breaking into the industry, navigating challenges, and making an impact in global basketball coverage.

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• Joe Vardon | Senior NBA Writer at The Athletic | Covering the NBA’s Biggest Stories (EP.118)

  In this episode of the SBC Audio Experience, host Alex Cocoros sits down with Joe Vardon, a seasoned NBA journalist with over two decades of experience, currently serving as a Senior NBA Writer for The Athletic. Known for his deep storytelling and insightful coverage, Vardon has reported on some of the league’s most compelling narratives, from championship runs to international expansion.A native of Ohio, Vardon began his journalism career covering Cleveland sports, including the Browns, Guardians (formerly Indians), and Cavaliers. His time on the Cavs beat placed him at the center of LeBron James’ rise, giving him a unique perspective on the influence of a superstar in a small-market city. His career has since taken him across the globe, and he is currently reporting from Berlin after covering the NBA’s recent international games in Paris.During the episode, Joe discusses:His journey from local sports reporting to covering the NBA’s biggest starsThe impact of LeBron James on Cleveland and the NBA at largeHis experience covering the league’s international expansion firsthandThe crossover between political journalism and sports coverageWith a career defined by adaptability, storytelling, and an eye for the game’s biggest moments, Vardon shares valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of basketball media. Tune in for a conversation that dives into the global reach of the NBA and the craft of covering the sport at the highest level.

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• How Teams Approach the NBA Trade Deadline | Bobby Marks | Eric Pincus (EP.117)

  This episode of the Sports Business Classroom Audio Experience is from a previously recorded webinar on “How Teams Approach the NBA Trade Deadline” hosted by Bobby Marks and Eric Pincus. Throughout the webinar, they discuss the ins and outs of the trade deadline, answer relevant questions from our live Q&A, and more!In this episode, Bobby and Eric discuss:The process of putting together a tradeTrade structure and permissible tradesThe impact of the new CBAExamples of current and past tradesBobby and Eric provide excellent insights on how front offices operate through one of the busiest times of the NBA Calendar.This webinar is an example of what students learn during the SBC Business of Basketball Immersive Experience. If you have any interest in attending the upcoming program taking place this July during the Las Vegas Summer, be sure to register as soon as possible as space is limited.

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• Joakim Noah | 2x NCAA Champion, 2x NBA All-Star, 2014 Defensive Player of the Year | The Global Impact of Basketball (EP.116)

  In this episode of the SBC Audio Experience, alumni host Alex Cocoros sits down with Joakim Noah, a two-time NCAA Champion with the University of Florida, two-time NBA All-Star, and the 2014 Defensive Player of the Year. Known for his relentless energy, defensive tenacity, and passion for the game, Noah became the heart of the Chicago Bulls after being drafted in 2007, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise and the league.Beyond his playing career, Noah has embraced a role as a global ambassador for basketball, drawing from his multicultural background—born to a Cameroonian father and a Swedish mother—spanning Africa, Europe, and North America. His work with the NBA, including involvement in international events like the Paris Games, highlights his commitment to growing the game worldwide and uniting cultures through basketball.During the episode, Joakim discusses:His pride in seeing the NBA in Paris and the electric basketball cultureHow three years in college helped him mature and prepare for the NBAHis transition into sports media and ambassadorial roles post-retirementHow playing with heart on his sleeve shaped his leadership and media presenceWith a career defined by passion, leadership, and international influence, Noah continues to inspire the next generation of players and fans. Tune in for a dynamic conversation about basketball’s growing global reach and the lessons he’s carried beyond the court.

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• Katie Heindl | SBC Instructor, Award-winning writer, journalist, columnist, & copywriter | Stories Beyond the Court (EP. 115)

  In this episode of the SBC Audio Experience, alumni host Alex Cocoros sits down with SBC Instructor and credentialed NBA journalist Katie Heindl, whose work has been featured in The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, SLAM, The Athletic, and more. She is also the creator of Basketball Feelings, a Substack where she explores the human side of basketball through creative and thought-provoking storytelling.Beyond her impressive writing career, Katie is a dedicated SBC Instructor, mentoring hundreds of students each summer at the SBC Immersive Experience in Las Vegas. Through her guidance, she helps aspiring sports professionals develop their storytelling skills and navigate the evolving landscape of sports media. During the episode, Katie discusses:How the Toronto Raptors sparked her love for basketball and shaped her journey into sports journalism.The inspiration behind Basketball Feelings, her approach to storytelling, and how she overcomes writer’s block.Her experience as an SBC Instructor, the impact of mentorship, and her advice for breaking into the sports industry.Katie’s career is a testament to the power of creativity, connection, and staying true to your craft. Tune in to hear her insights and experiences in the world of sports media!

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