By Holt Hackney
Even with all the cache of being a sports lawyer, it is still a relatively new profession.
That is what makes attorneys who have spent decades helping shape the industry especially noteworthy.
Greg Lee, a partner at BakerHostetler and co-leader of the firm’s Sports Industry Team, is one of those attorneys. Over the course of his career, Lee has advised clients on a wide range of matters involving sports facilities, venues, training centers and sponsorships across the professional sports landscape.
His impact extends beyond client work. Based in Orlando, Lee has been actively involved with the Greater Orlando Sports Commission for nearly two decades, helping support efforts to bring major sporting events and related economic development opportunities to Central Florida.
As BakerHostetler rejoins Professional Sports and the Law as a partner, we caught up with Lee to discuss his career, the evolution of the sports industry, and the trends he believes will shape the future of sports law.
Question: How has your work with the sports commission made you a better lawyer?
Answer: My work with the Greater Orlando Sports Commission dates back more than 15 years. The commission has given me a meaningful platform to support leadership efforts that bring sports-related economic development opportunities to Central Florida. Through that work, I have been involved in national and international events across amateur, collegiate and professional sports. It also has expanded my network across the industry and given me the opportunity to work alongside some of the most talented attorneys and professionals in the field.
Q: What philosophy has guided you down the path of being a successful sports lawyer?
A: I have always been drawn to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on a community. Sports create a deeply personal connection for people, and when you have the opportunity to contribute to projects that matter to a community, you feel connected to the success and outcome in a different way. That sense of purpose continues to bring out my best work in this industry.
Q; In what ways has your practice intersected with professional sports over the last year?
A: Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working on a range of professional sports matters, including projects involving sports facilities, venues and training centers for professional teams. I also have worked on sponsorship-related matters for professional sports organizations. Together, these projects reflect the breadth of legal and business issues shaping the sports industry today.
Q: What trends in professional sports are you focusing on for the coming year?
A: One of the most significant trends we are watching is the continued evolution of NIL and the way it is reshaping the relationship between collegiate and professional sports. As collegiate athletics becomes more sophisticated and commercially focused, schools are making significant investments in facilities, venues and related infrastructure to strengthen their programs and enhance the overall athlete and fan experience. We expect this trend to create continued opportunities for our sports industry team to support clients as a result of this trend.
Q: Have there been additions to the sports team at BakerHostetler or shifts in terms of the team’s focus on new areas in the sport industry?
A: We are fortunate to have a strong team of talented professionals supporting BakerHostetler’s sports industry team. We are continuing to evaluate opportunities to expand our capabilities and deepen our footprint in the industry, particularly in areas where our clients’ needs are evolving.
