Radio and broadcasting giant Entercom Communications has closed on the acquisition of sports data and igaming affiliate platform QL Gaming Group (QLGG) in a cash deal worth approximately $32m.
The acquisition allows Entercom to integrate QLGG’s sports data, analytics and insight-driven content into its sports broadcast stations, podcasts, and online digital audio platform, radio.com.
QLGG’s technology portfolio includes sports betting data and analaytical capabilities via BetQL and daily fantasy sports through RotoQL. It also offers simulation-based sports outcome predictions and game forecasting via AccuScore, which was acquired by QLGG in May, and analytical coverage of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) through TennisInsight.com.
The BetQL sports betting app is core to the new offering, offering advanced analytics direct-to-consumer via a subscription model, which will now be amplified across Entercom’s sports audio portfolio.
“As the sports betting marketplace continues to grow exponentially, the acquisition of QL Gaming Group is a perfect fit for our unrivaled sports audio platform,” Entercom chairman, president and chief executive David Field said.
“Integrating QL’s analytics and content with our sports brands enables us to deliver unparalleled experiences for sports fans,” he explained. “The acquisition builds on our track record of digital growth and further enhances our direct-to-consumer technology portfolio with data and analytics capabilities, while also adding an innovative new subscription offering to our platform.”
QLGG’s co-founder and chief executive, Justin Park, will continue to lead the business, reporting to president of sports Mike Dee and chief digital officer J.D. Crowley. In 2021, under its first full year of ownership, QLGG is expected to generate approximately $12m in revenue.
Park commented: “We are thrilled to be joining the leading sports audio platform, bringing our betting insights and expertise to such a loyal and dedicated fan base. Between our capabilities to make bettors better and the influence Entercom’s platform provides, we can now offer a wholly unique proposition to the sports enthusiast that is second to none.”
In October, Entercom also signed a deal with Flutter Entertainment-owned daily fantasy and sports betting operator, FanDuel, which saw the operator become Entercom’s official sportsbook partner for a period of six years.
FanDuel is expected to offer odds, insight and promotion via Entercom’s sports broadcast stations and Radio.com platform.