The Sports & Exhibition Authority in Pittsburgh is considering spending a substantial amount of money to investigate the possibility of bringing an NBA or WNBA team to the city. While Pittsburgh is highly regarded as a football and hockey town, and occasionally a baseball town, the idea of introducing professional basketball to the city seems unlikely.
One of the main reasons for the reluctance to embrace professional basketball is the pride that Pittsburghers take in not being NBA fans. Andrew Fillipponi, the host of 93.7 The Fan, states that Pittsburghers see it as a badge of honor to be disinterested in the NBA and have never had a team of their own. They find ways to criticize the NBA without even watching it.
This sentiment is not new, as Pittsburgh has a long history of neglecting basketball. Despite being home to successful college basketball programs, such as the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University, there is little enthusiasm for the sport at the professional level. Even minor league basketball teams and exhibition games have struggled to garner support and maintain attendance.
Bringing an NBA or WNBA team to Pittsburgh would require substantial investment and support from the community, which currently seems unlikely. Many argue that the city’s sports market is already saturated with football and hockey teams, which enjoy wide popularity and support. Some fear that introducing basketball would dilute the fan base and potentially harm the existing teams.
Moreover, Pittsburghers have a strong sense of loyalty to their existing sports teams. The Pittsburgh Steelers, in particular, have a dedicated fan base and are an integral part of the city’s identity. Many residents see the Steelers as the epitome of Pittsburgh sports and are resistant to the idea of supporting a basketball team that could potentially compete for attention and resources.
On the other hand, proponents of bringing an NBA or WNBA team argue that Pittsburgh is missing out on the economic benefits that professional sports can bring. They believe that having another major sports team in the city would boost tourism, create jobs, and attract new businesses. Additionally, they point out that an NBA or WNBA franchise would provide entertainment options for residents and bring a sense of excitement to the city.
To determine the feasibility of such a venture, the Sports & Exhibition Authority is considering conducting a study that would assess the potential economic impact and public interest in bringing a basketball team to Pittsburgh. The study would likely cost tens of thousands of dollars but could provide valuable insights into the viability of such a venture.
In conclusion, while bringing an NBA or WNBA team to Pittsburgh may seem unlikely given the city’s indifference towards basketball, there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate. The Sports & Exhibition Authority’s consideration of conducting a study shows that there is at least some interest in exploring this possibility. Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether the potential economic benefits and increased entertainment options outweigh the potential risks to existing sports teams and the city’s sports culture.
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