Quentin Ayukesong is currently an associate at Latham & Watkins LLP. He advises public and private companies, private equity funds, and investors on a wide range of matters in entertainment, sports, and media, technology, retail and consumer, and hospitality, gaming, and leisure industries. industries. Prior to joining Latham & Watkins, he practiced law at another major US law firm in New York, and worked for several prominent sports and entertainment organizations, such as the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Brooklyn Nets, CBS Sports, the Big Ten Network, and Excel Sports Management. Mr. Ayukesong received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in 2013. He then went on to earn a M.S. from Columbia University in 2016 and a J.D. from Washington University School of Law in 2019.

M&A/private equity attorneys in entertainment, sports and media encounter a diverse array of legal issues that reflect the dynamic nature of these industries. Generally, in the realm of M&A, we often deal with the negotiation and drafting of purchase agreements, the process of due diligence to uncover any potential liabilities or risks associated with acquiring a company, and the navigation of complex regulatory environments that can include antitrust considerations and intellectual property rights.

Specifically, in the media and entertainment sector, M&A transactions frequently involve the valuation and transfer of intellectual property assets, such as film libraries, music catalogs, and television franchises. Ensuring that these assets are properly valued and that their rights are clearly defined and protected is crucial.

In sports, M&A activities can include the sale or purchase of sports teams, the negotiation of media rights, and the development of sports facilities. These transactions require a deep understanding of league rules, collective bargaining agreements, and the unique revenue streams associated with sports franchises, such as sponsorship deals and broadcasting contracts.

Private equity practices within these sectors often involve the acquisition of stakes in entertainment and sports properties or companies. Legal issues here can include structuring investments to comply with industry-specific regulations, while managing relationships with existing stakeholders.

Overall, M&A attorneys in sports and entertainment must be adept at managing a variety of legal and business challenges, ensuring compliance with a complex web of regulations, and protecting the interests of their clients in a landscape that is constantly evolving due to technological advances, shifting consumer behaviors, and the introduction of institutional capital and acquisition opportunities across leagues.

Sports and entertainment attorneys have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings beyond the traditional big law firm environment. These settings can range from in-house legal departments at major sports leagues, universities, sports agencies and media companies. Additionally, nonprofit organizations, including sports foundations, arts councils, and advocacy groups, also employ attorneys to help navigate legal issues related to their missions, such as protecting artists’ rights or promoting access to sports programs (shoutout to Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts and Latham’s ongoing partnership with them!)

For undergraduate students interested in pursuing law school, I recommend engaging in a variety of experiences and activities that will strengthen their law school applications and also provide a solid foundation for their future legal careers. The most crucial thing is to focus on academic excellence. Next, I would aim to develop strong writing and research skills by taking courses that require substantial writing. I would join school clubs, seek internships, and engage in volunteer work. Finally, when it comes to those particularly drawn to sports and entertainment, I would network, network, and network.

Good question. First, my favorite part about being an attorney is knowing and appreciating the journey it took to get here. From a young age, I had an idea that I wanted to be an attorney, but I didn’t fully comprehend the effort required to accomplish this goal. It took years of learning, failures, and grit to become an attorney. I’m grateful for every experience and for every person that guided me.  

Second, one of the most rewarding aspects of my career as an attorney is the opportunity to advocate for my pro bono clients. I’m deeply passionate about ensuring that their voices are heard, their rights are protected, and their creative visions and professional goals are advanced through my legal support.

Yes, advising two limited partners in the consortium that recently acquired the National Football League’s (NFL) Washington Commanders for US$6.05 billion.

Through life’s endeavors, it’s always important to maintain gratitude. I wouldn’t be here without my family and, certainly, without my board of mentors: James C. Johnson, Steve Horowitz, Seth Krauss, Mitch Kupchak, Gary Sacks, Alex Moyer, Joseph Brazil, Frank Lupinacci, Justin Hamill and Christopher Cross. Each one of them has taught me the importance of working hard, treating people well, and paying it forward.