Mike Ybarra: Microsoft and Blizzard Veteran Takes Up CEO Role at Fantasy Sports Firm

Mike Ybarra: Microsoft and Blizzard Veteran Takes Up CEO Role at Fantasy Sports Firm

As a seasoned gaming enthusiast with decades of experience under my belt, I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia as Mike Ybarra embarks on his new journey as CEO of PrizePicks. His tenure at Microsoft and Blizzard Entertainment has been nothing short of legendary, shaping the landscape of gaming as we know it today.


In January, Mike Ybarra departed from his position as President at Blizzard Entertainment, marking over two decades with Microsoft. This move occurred concurrently with Microsoft carrying out approximately 2,000 layoffs, exacerbating the negative impact on the industry during one of the most challenging years for job cuts and studio shutdowns in history.

Previously working within and adjacent to Microsoft’s gaming divisions since 2009, this seasoned professional has recently unveiled a fresh position: Chief Executive Officer at PrizePicks, a company specialized in operating skill-based fantasy sports.

Still Gaming, In a Way

According to Matt Booty’s statement, Mike Ybarra had a clear understanding of Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard before leaving the company. For nearly three years, Ybarra held a leadership position at Blizzard Entertainment, and prior to that, he played a significant role in shaping the strategies for Xbox Live, Xbox Game Pass, and the unsuccessful ‘Mixer’ streaming service.

On LinkedIn, Mike Ybarra posted a comment about his new role at PrizePicks:

I’m really impressed by the skills and potential at PrizePicks. I can’t wait to become part of such a fantastic team, and collaborate in enhancing our outstanding products and growing our business.

PrizePicks highlighted that Ybarra shares their company’s values deeply, consistently emphasizing fan engagement and progressive ideas. Additionally, he will be part of PrizePicks’ Board of Directors.

The company, primarily dealing with fantasy sports in North America, is an app-based service based out of Atlanta. This platform gives users the chance to earn money through various fantasy sports leagues such as the NHL, NBA, NFL, and MLB. Furthermore, it presents a relatively exclusive esports fantasy product centered around CS2, Call of Duty, and VALORANT, among others, which seems fitting for Mike Ybarra’s interests.

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2024-08-05 22:17