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January 17, 2025
Sports fans are frustrated by the growing need for multiple streaming subscriptions to watch games, with services like CBS, ESPN, Amazon, and Netflix required to access all NFL games, costing around $2,500. Other sports, such as the NBA, MLB, and MLS, are also spread across different platforms. While streaming platforms offer flexibility and global reach, they introduce "friction" that can reduce fan engagement, as seen with declining viewership for events like Thursday Night Football. Leagues face a challenge in balancing revenue with fan loyalty, as exclusive deals, like MLS’s agreement with Apple, present both opportunities and risks. The future likely involves combining streaming and traditional TV to optimize reach and fan connection.
