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Can Upstart Sports Leagues Beat the Grim Start-Up Odds?

The article from MSN Sports discusses the challenges and prospects of new sports leagues emerging in the U.S., focusing on the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and the potential revival of the Arena Football League (AFL). It highlights the historical difficulty new sports leagues face in gaining traction against established giants like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, with many failing due to financial and competitive pressures. The PWHL, which began its inaugural season in January 2024, has shown promise by attracting significant viewership and investment, suggesting a growing interest in women's professional sports. Conversely, the AFL, which has seen multiple iterations since its inception in 1987, is attempting another comeback, illustrating the persistent allure of niche sports despite the high failure rate of start-up leagues. The article also touches on the broader context of sports economics, fan engagement, and the cultural shifts that might support or hinder these new ventures.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/athletics/can-upstart-sports-leagues-beat-the-grim-start-up-odds/ar-AA1xE6qt ]