This book is unique in that it offers the first truly rigorous application of economic principles to its subject. The authors analyse:* the economic literature on sporting leagues* the demand for professional team sports* the players' labour market.Amongst the topics discussed are the US system of franchising and draft picks and the chances of their being adopted elsewhere, the implications of player strikes, the onset of pay-per-view and digital television, and the relatively new notion that sport is a business like any other.