The 2024 edition of SBC Summit North America is one day away. Among some of the more noteworthy speakers on the agenda is Donna Orender. The Founder and CEO of Orender Unlimited has a storied career, including a stint overseeing TV production of the PGA from 1987-2005 followed by a six-year term as the president of the WNBA.
On Wednesday, May 8, Orender will speak with SeventySix Capital Managing Partner Wayne Kimmel about her career and her advocacy on the Leaders stage. In advance of that talk, we spoke with Orender about women’s sports, their role in gaming and what she is looking forward to at the Meadowlands next week.
SBCA: When it comes to sports betting, have women’s sports organizations had enough of a spot at the table?
Orender: There is a definite upside, which we are now beginning to see with respect to women’s sports and betting. I believe the numbers and engagement around women’s March Madness set new high marks. And there are new business opportunities that directly speak to women engaging in the space.
SBCA: Seeing some of these betting scandals, as a former head of a league, what is your response?
DO: They are what has kept betting at bay for so long. At the end of the day, the integrity of the competition is at the core of a trusted fan-driven and sponsor-driven business. Anything that can compromise that trust puts the sport at risk.
SBCA: Is the interest in betting on women’s sports growing? How does the size of the market compare to what you thought it would be five years ago?
DO: I have always had the belief that women’s sports were undervalued and, candidly, continue to be so. Better is better – women’s sports are in the game – on the table and the expectation for significant growth is a positive
SBCA: What is something you wished got discussed more when it comes to growing women’s sports?
DO: Great question. Women’s sports have caught fire now. The strong leadership at the NWSL and, of course, Caitlin Clark and a slew of new talent to compliment the superstars all ready in the WNBA. The women’s WSL Champions Tour is leading the way in pay parity and showcasing their talents on the world’s best waves and, of course, a new volleyball league that is gaining traction.
The conversations are the economic value of women’s sports. The return on investment is an important discussion. The value of the TV/ streaming product, which merits exponential increases, needs more focus. And then there is the incredible value that women’s sports brings to the vibrancy of communities!
SBCA: What topics are you most excited to discuss at SBC Summit North America?
DO: I appreciate being a part of the narrative of building multiple sports both men and women and building businesses in a tough industry is always great to discuss and reflect on. Lots of learning and continued lessons.