Matt Caldwell is a Staten Island native, the son of a New York City cop, a West Point and Kellogg School of Business graduate, who cut his teeth in finance in Manhattan—a credentialed guy who came of age in great sports towns. He ended up running the Florida Panthers of the NHL but accepted Alex Rodriguez’s offer to take over our team during the summer. He says he’s already been recognized on the street. The Wolves are riding a wave of strong seasons right now, but Caldwell wants to instill a leadership culture on the business side, where 20 years of losing has taken its toll. He admits business success flows from baskets made, but that great customer service, food and beverage, and fan experience all come a close second. Caldwell notes that finishing No. 4 in the league does not translate to No. 4 in revenue. “Market size matters, but we have a lot we can build here.” He likes ownership’s “New York state of mind—there’s no excuse not to be the best.”