Counterpoints: The Sports Analytics Podcast from MIT Sloan Management Review

Ever wonder what happens when the rigorous, data-driven world of MIT Sloan collides with the high-stakes drama of professional sports? That’s the space where Counterpoints: The Sports Analytics Podcast from MIT Sloan Management Review lives. Hosted by Ben Shields of the MIT Sloan School of Management and Paul Michelman from MIT Sloan Management Review, this series goes far beyond basic stats and fantasy tips. Instead, it delves into the nuanced, often contentious conversations that are reshaping how teams are built, games are played, and entire leagues are managed. Each episode features candid discussions with leading sports analytics pioneers, exploring how numbers reveal hidden truths about player performance, business strategy, and fan engagement. You’ll hear debates that are as much about leadership and organizational culture as they are about on-field tactics, all grounded in cutting-edge research and real-world application. Whether you're a front-office executive, a passionate fan curious about the science of the game, or someone who simply loves a good argument backed by evidence, this podcast offers a unique and intellectually stimulating perspective. It’s for anyone who believes that the most interesting stories in sports aren’t always told by the final score, but by the data that explains how it got there.