Florida Panthers have been honored as the “Sports Team of the Year” at the 18th Annual Sports Business Journal (SBJ) Sports Business Awards, held in New York City on May 21, 2025

**Florida Panthers Named Sports Team of the Year at 2025 Sports Business Awards**

The Florida Panthers have been honored as the “Sports Team of the Year” at the 18th Annual Sports Business Journal (SBJ) Sports Business Awards, held in New York City on May 21, 2025. This prestigious recognition celebrates the Panthers’ remarkable achievements both on and off the ice during the eligibility period from March 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025.([NHL][1])

### A Historic Season on the Ice

The Panthers’ 2023–24 season was nothing short of historic. They clinched their first-ever Stanley Cup championship, defeating the Edmonton Oilers in a thrilling seven-game series. This victory marked a significant milestone in the franchise’s 30-year history. Key players like captain Aleksander Barkov and goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky played pivotal roles in this success. Barkov secured his second Frank J. Selke Trophy, recognizing his exceptional defensive play, while Bobrovsky achieved his 400th career win, becoming the fastest goaltender in NHL history to reach this milestone .([Wikipedia][2], [Wikipedia][3], [Wikipedia][4], [FOX 4 News Fort Myers WFTX][5])

### Off-Ice Excellence and Community Impact

 

Beyond their on-ice accomplishments, the Panthers have made significant strides in business operations and community engagement. For the first time in franchise history, they sold out of season tickets, reflecting a growing and dedicated fan base. The team’s playoff runs generated over \$125 million in economic impact for the local community. Additionally, the Panthers launched a new media partnership with Scripps Sports, expanding access to Panthers hockey to more than 2.6 million households and doubling viewership in its first year .([Florida Hockey Now][6], [NHL][1])

 

The organization also demonstrated its commitment to the community by opening the Baptist Health IcePlex, a state-of-the-art practice facility, and revitalizing the War Memorial Auditorium concert venue in Fort Lauderdale. These initiatives underscore the Panthers’ dedication to enhancing the local community and providing top-tier facilities for both players and fans .([NHL][1])

 

### Recognition and Future Outlook

 

The Panthers’ comprehensive approach to excellence earned them the top honor over other notable nominees, including the Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA), Indiana Fever (WNBA), Inter Miami CF (MLS), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), USA Gymnastics, and the Washington Commanders (NFL) .([Florida Hockey Now][6])

 

As the Panthers continue their journey in the 2024–25 season, they remain focused on building upon their success and striving for continued excellence both on and off the ice.