Jim Keller Joins FanDuel Sports Network to Lead Ad Sales Amid Post-Bankruptcy Revamp

Generated by AI AgentWord on the Street
Monday, Jul 28, 2025 9:07 pm ET1min read
Aime RobotAime Summary

- Jim Keller, ex-Discovery+ and Hulu ad executive, joins FanDuel Sports Network as EVP to lead advertising and sponsorship sales.

- Appointed post-bankruptcy, he aims to enhance ad strategies across linear, digital, and programmatic platforms for regional sports outlets.

- His focus on fan engagement and community-driven content aligns with FanDuel's post-rebranding goal to redefine local sports media advertising.

- Leveraging his expertise from Fuse Media and NBC Sports, Keller seeks to strengthen advertiser value while reconnecting fans with regional teams.

Jim Keller, an experienced executive with a proven history in ad sales at major media companies like

. Discovery, Hulu, and NBCUniversal, has been appointed to lead advertising and sponsorship sales at FanDuel Sports Network. FanDuel Sports Network, known for its regional sports outlets previously under Fox Corp and subsequently with TV broadcaster Sinclair, has entrusted Keller with the role of Executive Vice President in this domain.

Keller will directly report to Eric Ratchman, Chief Revenue Officer of Main Street Sports Group, FanDuel's parent company. His task will involve overseeing the advertising portfolio across multiple platforms, including linear, digital, and programmatic channels. The network has regional outlets serving areas such as Detroit, Oklahoma, Ohio, and Wisconsin, as well as holding a vested interest in the YES Network, which is affiliated with the New York Yankees.

Expressing confidence in Keller's leadership, Eric Ratchman noted Keller's exemplary track record across various media platforms. He articulated that Keller's role would be pivotal in reshaping local sports media into a more dynamic and engaging field. The expectation is to craft intelligent advertising experiences that deliver substantial value to both brand partners and local sports fans.

FanDuel Sports Network, recently rebranded from the Bally’s name, embarked on a transformation journey after Diamond Sports Group, its predecessor, filed for bankruptcy in 2023. Emerging from Chapter 11 in 2025, the entity saw a fresh naming rights agreement with FanDuel, fostering renewed business momentum.

Keller's recent position as Chief Revenue Officer at Fuse Media solidifies his industry credentials. His professional journey involves crucial ad sales roles for Discovery+ and pivotal national advertising strategies for Hulu. Keller expressed a deep belief in the connectivity between fans and their local teams, highlighting FanDuel Sports Network's dedication to maintaining that bond through multipurpose fan experiences.

“The most impactful media experiences hinge on rich content and community engagement,” Keller emphasized. “FanDuel Sports Network is poised to leverage such experiences, and it is precisely what advertisers seek today. I am thrilled to be part of driving the company's growth in this vibrant sector.”

Keller's appointment, effective immediately, positions him in New York, where he is expected to spearhead innovative strategies reflecting his longstanding commitment since his early days at NBC Sports. This strategic move marks a significant phase in FanDuel Sports Network's aim to refine its regional sports media presence, potentially redefining advertising approaches within the industry.

His educational and professional background, coupled with Main Street Sports Group's rapid post-bankruptcy restructuring, signals a concerted effort to restore the network's previous success as a major player in regional sports media. As analysts observe the unfolding developments at FanDuel alongside Keller's leadership, the spotlight remains on how these regional outlets will evolve under his guidance.

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