SPS Stories
Faculty Spotlight
Game-Changing Insights from Data
Fast Facts
- Nicholas Martinez has worked with the XFL and New York Mets, applying data analytics to player performance and business strategy
- The Sports Analytics Certificate program equips students with real-world experience in predictive modeling, statistical analysis, and data visualization
- Students gain hands-on experience with Python and SQL while working on projects that simulate professional sports analytics roles
<p><span class="p-body">For Nicholas Martinez, sports and data have always been intertwined. With a background in economics from NYU and a master’s degree in sports management, he built a career in analytics, working with major organizations like the XFL and the New York Mets. Now, as an instructor in the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/sports-analytics.html" target="_blank">Sports Analytics Certificate</a> program at NYU SPS, he helps students break into the evolving world of data-driven decision-making in sports.</span></p>
Turning Passion into a Career
<p><span class="p-body">Martinez’s curiosity about data has shaped his career since the beginning. “I started in finance and consulting before pivoting into sports analytics,” he explains. “It wasn’t a direct path, but understanding how data influences decision-making helped me transition successfully.” His work has ranged from player performance analysis to business strategy, and he now shares those real-world applications with his students.</span></p>
Merging Data with Sports Strategy
<p><span class="p-body">The <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/sports-analytics.html" target="_blank">Sports Analytics Certificate</a> equips students with the skills to analyze team performance, optimize business operations, and leverage data in decision-making. “Sports teams and leagues increasingly rely on analytics,” Martinez says. “This program ensures students understand key concepts like data visualization, predictive modeling, and statistical analysis.” The curriculum elevates hands-on experience and industry tools like Python and SQL, ensuring students gain technical proficiency alongside strategic thinking.</span></p>
<p><span class="p-body">Martinez prioritizes practical experience in his teaching. “Students complete projects using real sports datasets, from evaluating player efficiency to analyzing fan engagement,” he explains. “One assignment might involve predicting game outcomes, while another focuses on optimizing ticket pricing strategies.” By working with real scenarios, students develop insights that translate directly to the sports industry.</span></p>
Breaking into the Field
<p>Whether students aim to work for professional teams, media outlets, or sports tech firms, the program prepares them to stand out.</p>
The certificate signals to employers that students have the technical and analytical skills needed in sports today. It’s a great way to transition into the industry or level up an existing career.”
<p>With sports analytics rapidly evolving, Martinez emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. “Data is shaping the future of sports,” he says. “For anyone passionate about both, this program provides the foundation to make an impact.”</p>
<p>Give your career a boost when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/certificates/sports-analytics.html" target="_blank">Certificate in Sports Analytics</a> at NYU SPS.</p>
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