2020 was a year of massive shocks to what was an evolving sports landscape. The economic shock was a brutal short-term blow that will have long-term ramifications. The flourishing social justice movements accelerated a shift away from legacy segments of consumers. And in the background, we have a continuing technology revolution that is changing how sports are consumed and the very nature of fandom.

Sports are part of the culture, and the culture is evolving in dramatic ways. And the evolution of culture is now very much tied to politics. The likelihood that you love the Sarah Fuller story or applaud the social justice messages on the backs of jerseys is related to political philosophy and how you vote. To deny the politicization and polarization of the culture is foolish.

With that said, as 2021 begins, it is an apt time to consider how the major US leagues will fare in the new environment. In order of their respective championships, some quick thoughts on the direction of each league.

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