I think we’ve all experienced a sense of favoritism to specific athletes and teams at some point when watching big sports stations like ESPN and FOX. I, for one, see this a lot as I am a Los Angeles Lakers fan, and I see them constantly on shows, whether they are good or bad. I’ve seen them all the time, especially since they have LeBron James and are struggling this season. This issue can be seen with any team with multiple star players like the Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Rams, New York Yankees, etc. The media will flock to whatever team or player has the most spotlight compared to the rest, and here’s why.
If I was working at these big sports stations, would anybody care if I talk about the struggling New Orleans Pelicans if they don’t have their best player? The simple answer is no; success and status are all that matters to these stations. If a player has accomplished a lot like Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Tom Brady, their success and errors will be published because they draw the most attention. It’s much more entertaining than a team with no fan value on their franchise.
While it sounds harsh, it is true, but it can also change. Teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and the Cleveland Cavaliers have gained a lot more attention due to their excellent performances and young players. Like I said before, the media is attracted to success, and with success comes opportunity. What makes these two teams different then other big-name franchises is that these are small-market teams. Small market teams get their spotlight when placed high in the draft; we’ve seen the Cincinnati Bengals, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Charlotte Hornets gain more media coverage because of the players they’ve drafted and the excitement they have brought to their leagues. Another is major trades for big-name players will be viewed, brought and everything else will be shadowed. The amount of noise in the league will be broadcasted for weeks, months, and almost the season, depending on how good that team or player has been. With recent trades happening around the NBA, the news coverage on teams that have struggled so far has grown. Sometimes the storyline will be good on how a team won the trade and how others are bad to show a disgruntled star potential new destinations.
While all teams in their respective leagues aren’t always successful, I believe that struggling teams should be covered more. Understanding their problems makes it easier to find out the issues from the front office, coaching staff, and players. In addition, seeing the same teams become headliners every time they play is exhausting, and with these new teams performing well, there can be a more balanced shift in sports media coverage.