The Evolution and Future of Women’s Sports
This conversation moves beyond the surface-level growth narrative to explore the strategic thinking behind the evolution of women’s sports. Phil Cook (WNBA), Keia Clarke (New York Liberty), and Rachel Epstein (NWSL) unpack why investment is flowing in now, the business models positioning these leagues as cultural platforms, and what brands need to understand about showing up authentically in this space.
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Phil Cook
CMO, WNBA
Phil Cook is in his sixth year as the Chief Marketing Officer for the WNBA. By contemporizing the WNBA Brand through athlete storytelling and innovative partnerships, Phil is driving a fundamental shift in the League’s cultural identity from a brand of support to one of fandom. Before joining the WNBA, Phil spent over 25 years at Nike with a focus on the global basketball landscape.
Keia Clarke
CEO, New York Liberty
Clarke is CEO of the New York Liberty, leading the franchise to its first WNBA championship in 2024. In her 16th season with the team, she drove 60%+ sponsorship growth and launched Liberty Live, the team's own streaming platform. Clarke was most recently selected as ESSENCE’s CEO of the Year for her industry-shaping leadership and cultural impact. She resides in New Jersey with her husband and their two children.
Rachel Epstein
CMO, National Women's Soccer League
Epstein oversees ESPN marketing for WNBA, NWSL, MLB, Grand Slam tennis, NCAA Championships, LOVB, espnW & more. She leads female audience growth strategy and Executive Produces the annual espnW Summit. Rachel previously launched and led marketing for Women's Professional Soccer league. She's an Indiana University grad & All-American tennis player.