The United States is arguably the world’s most sports-obsessed nation. With professional teams in virtually every major sport and millions of avid fans, the competition is fierce to identify which US state has the most popular sports teams. While there are a variety of metrics one can use to make this determination, several states have fan bases that have made them stand out.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts has been a perennial powerhouse when it comes to sports fandom. The state’s rich history of collegiate teams is well known, but Massachusetts also boasts two professional sports franchises – the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. Both teams boast legions of devoted fans, giving Massachusetts a strong presence in Major League Baseball and the National Football League. Massachusetts also has e presence in the NHL and NBA, with the Boston Bruins and Celtics, respectively.
Beyond these iconic franchises, Massachusetts also counts six Division I college football programs: Boston College, Harvard, UMass Amherst, Northeastern University, University of Connecticut and University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Betting was recently legalized in Massachusetts, which could further bolster the state’s sports profile. Betting in Massachusetts is one of the most popular sports activities in the state, as new and existing fans are flocking to place bets on their favorite teams. Bettors also have more ways to save money in Massachusetts than anywhere else, with bonuses such as this DraftKings Massachusetts promo code.
New York
Home to some of the most iconic sporting venues on earth – including Madison Square Garden and Yankee Stadium – it’s no surprise that New York would be included on any list of states with popular sports teams. Of course, many know New York is home to several professional sports franchises, including hockey’s New York Rangers, basketball’s Knicks, baseball’s Yankees (and Mets), and soccer’s NYCFC and Red Bulls. In addition to these marquee franchises from the four major North American leagues (MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL), New York boasts four D-I college football programs: Syracuse University; St John’s; Columbia University; and Cornell Big Red.
California
California may be best known for its sun-kissed cities and perfect beaches, but it’s also home to legendary sporting teams. Most notably, the home of baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers (who are currently breaking MLB records) as well as other pro franchises like LA Lakers (NBA), Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Oakland Raiders (NFL) plus San Francisco 49ers (NFL). On top of these household names, California also includes five Division 1 college football programs: UCLA Bruins; USC Trojans; Stanford Cardinal; Cal Bears; and Fresno State Bulldogs.
Texas
Texas holds a special place in American hearts regarding professional sports teams thanks partly to its storied past with Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros. Texas’ other pro franchises include Dallas Cowboys (NFL), Houston Rockets (NBA), as well as San Antonio Spurs (NBA). As for collegiate athletic programs, Texas has eight D-1 football schools, including Michigan State Spartans; TCU Horned Frogs; Baylor Bears; Rice Owls; UTEP Miners; Stephen F Austin Lumberjacks plus UTSA Roadrunners, plus Lamar Cardinals.
Pennsylvania
The Keystone State enjoys an impressive array of professional sports teams representing all four major North American pro leagues, such as Pittsburgh Steelers & Penguins (NFL & NHL respectively); Philadelphia Flyers & Eagles (NHL & NFL); Harrisburg Senators & Lehigh Valley IronPigs minor league baseball plus Philadelphia 76ers NBA team all based within Pennsylvania borders making it an attractive destination for any true sporting enthusiast!
Conclusion
The US has a long and rich history of sports teams – from the iconic franchises that make up America’s major leagues to collegiate programs that keep college spirit alive. Massachusetts, New York, California, Texas and Pennsylvania are just a few of the many states with popular sports teams worth checking out. No matter which state you call home or what your favorite sport may be – there’s something for everyone when it comes to finding a team to cheer on.
