The Superstar Effect: How Athletes Shape Markets Beyond the Game
Can one athlete change ticket prices, TV ratings, and even an entire city?
Join us on April 17 for a free, public talk exploring the economics behind superstar athletes. From Shohei Ohtani and Caitlin Clark to Lionel Messi, today’s sports icons don’t just excel on the field — they reshape markets, media, and fan demand around the world.
Two economics professors will discuss:
- why superstar athletes earn such extraordinary salaries
- how small differences in talent can lead to huge differences in pay
- how sports provide real-world examples of broader economic forces that affect us all
This event is open to community members, sports fans, students, and anyone curious about how economics shows up in everyday life. No background in economics is required.
Presenters: King Banaian and Lynn MacDonald, Economics
Superstar Effect: How Athletes Shape Markets Beyond the Game
Friday, April 17
9:30-10:45am
Centennial Hall Room 100
SCSU Campus
Everyone is welcome! Free and open to the public. FREE parking is available in the 4th Avenue Parking Ramp -just bring your ticket with you for validation.
Brought to you by the SCSU Center for Economic Education and the SCSU Center for Policy Research and Community Engagement.
Date and Time
Friday Apr 17, 2026
9:30 AM - 10:45 AM CDT
Friday, April 17th, 9:30 - 10:45 a.m.
Location
Centennial Hall Room 100
SCSU Campus
Fees/Admission
Free and open to the public
Contact Information
Lynn MacDonald
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