Selig Speaker Series

Spring 2025 Selig Speaker Series

Thursday, February 6, 2025 | 6 p.m.

Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law,
BCLS 141 Great Hall

Please join us for the bi-annual Selig Speaker Series, featuring Mike Hazen, General Manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Hear insights from one of the top executives in Major League Baseball on how to build a winning franchise!

About the speaker series

The Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business Program Selig Speaker Series stands as one of the most prestigious and engaging platforms in the world of sports law and business. Launched during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the series was conceived as a dynamic response to the shifting educational and professional landscape. The series offers students and the greater Phoenix community an invaluable opportunity to create meaningful connections with leaders in the sports industry, fostering dialogue on critical topics shaping the future of sports.

This cornerstone event provides students and the Phoenix community direct access to prominent executives across the sports industry. The Selig Speaker Series creates an environment where constituents can not only listen to industry experts, but also engage with them in deep discussions and gain insights into the complexities of sports law and business.

Today, the Selig Speaker Series has established itself as the signature event within the Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business Program. Taking place each semester since 2021, it serves as an integral part of the curriculum and a showcase of the high-caliber sports connections at SLB.

As the Selig Speaker Series continues to grow, the SLB Program remains committed to expanding its reach and impact on the world of sports. The Allan “Bud” Selig Sports Law and Business Program will continue to use the Selig Speaker Series as a vital component of its mission to develop future sports leaders who are not only knowledgeable, but also innovative and prepared to face the evolving challenges of the sports world.

(Left to right) Aaron Hernandez, Greg Powers, Marina Carpenter and Xavier Gutierrez participate in the Fall 2023 Selig Speaker Series
Attendees watch the Spring 2024 Selig Speaker Series
Attendees watch the Fall 2023 Selig Speaker Series

Past speakers

The success of the event can largely be attributed to the prestige of the speakers, who are leaders in their respective fields. Each speaker brings a unique perspective of the sports industry, offering audience members the opportunity to learn from the best in the business. 

These speakers embody the depth of knowledge and leadership that the series offers, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage directly with the latest and most critical topics shaping the sports industry.

Michael Bidwill: Owner, Arizona Cardinals

Michael Bidwill

Owner, Arizona Cardinals

James Jones: General Manager, Phoenix Suns

James Jones

General Manager, Phoenix Suns

JoAn Scott: Managing Director of Men’s Basketball Championship, NCAA

JoAn Scott

Vice President of Men’s Basketball
Championship, NCAA

Karen Leetzow: President, Chicago Red Stars

Karen Leetzow

President, Chicago Red Stars

Travis Tygart: CEO, U.S. Anti-Doping Agency

Travis Tygart

CEO, U.S. Anti-Doping Agency