Established in 1976, RMU’s sports management program was the first in the nation to be housed within a school of business. As a career-focused institution, RMU pioneered the integration of core business fundamentals, sports analytics, and direct professional networking into sport management education. The 2026 Summit celebration brought together leaders from professional sports, technology, and media to explore the industry’s evolution and future opportunities for RMU students. 

The Summit paired that half-century legacy with forward-looking industry discussions, anchored by a special virtual Q&A with Cuban. During his virtual session, the Pittsburgh native drew from his career across technology, media, entertainment, and professional sports ownership, offering practical advice to the next generation of sports executives. 

“There are two types of people who use AI: The people who use it so they don't have to know anything, and the people who use it so they can learn everything,” said Cuban. “We must remember that AI is book smart, but it’s not street smart. To be successful with AI in Sport Management, you have to know how to use it, keep up with the changes, and be qualified enough to decide how to use its output.” 

Beyond Cuban’s keynote conversation, the summit explored emerging trends transforming the sports landscape, including dedicated sessions on artificial intelligence and innovation in front-office operations, live event production, and sponsorship activation. 

“The Sport Management program at RMU’s Rockwell School of Business has built an extraordinary legacy and relationships within our community,” said Daria Crawley, Ph.D., Dean of the Rockwell School of Business. “Reaching this 50-year milestone honors decades of student achievement, faculty excellence, and industry leadership. Above all, we are proud to celebrate the people and partnerships that drive our success.”

The Summit also featured the “Soccer Boom” panel, which examined the explosive commercial growth of domestic soccer leading into major international tournaments in North America. Panelists included Jeff Garner (President, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC & Riveters SC), Jeremy Alumbaugh (President, USL Championship), Roger Loughney (Chairman, IK Start USA), and Scott Gibson (Pittsburgh Riveters SC and the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. 

“Sport Management is an industry built on relationships, and the Summit gives our students a unique opportunity to learn directly from the professionals and leaders shaping that industry,” said Armand Buzzelli, Ph.D., Director of RMU’s Sport Management Program. “As we look toward the next 50 years and beyond, the sports landscape will keep evolving faster than ever, but our mission won't change. We will continue giving our students hands-on experience, the access to industry leaders, and the skills needed to succeed in the sport business."