Forbes released their ranking of the 25 most powerful women in sports.
The article explains its criteria: “What distinguishes the women on this list from their peers is not just their current power, but the ways they’re leveraging that influence to shape the future of sports.”
On that list are tennis legend Billie Jean King, 7-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles, Nike's Brand President Amy Montagne, and WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark.
However, topping that list is New Orleans Saints & Pelicans Owner Gayle Benson. With an estimated net worth of $7.9 billion, Benson is the only woman to own both a professional NFL & NBA team.
Forbes' full statement about Benson goes as follows:
"Gayle Benson made history in 2018 when she became the only woman to own both an NFL and NBA franchise, taking control of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans after the death of her husband, Tom. The two teams now carry a combined valuation of $8.35 billion while Benson herself has an estimated net worth of $7.9 billion. She has been central to the NFL's international ambitions, with the Saints becoming the first franchise with marketing rights in France and partnering with the Paris Musketeers of the European League of Football (ELF). Benson was also instrumental in bringing Super Bowl LIX to New Orleans, according to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, who said in February that "in business, philanthropy and football, Gayle is a leader, always advocating for the Saints and her native city."
The news comes on the day the New Orleans Pelicans will open their season on the road vs the Memphis Grizzlies. You can tune into the game on WWL AM Radio.