Thread: The Cost of Pro Sports...Economically Speaking...

So here is the debate in Indy. The pacers just signed a new deal with the city of Indianapolis to stay here, and it will cost indy 35 million over the next three years.

Now, with you sports towns that have winning teams, Im sure there is no argument (colts for example, we had some people bitch about the new stadium, but for the most part everyone is happy now)


But this new Indiana Pacer deal has pissed off the city, royally. We are bankrupt bad because of our last mayor, and now this one does this. We need schools, sidewalks, libraries, and other public things.


But here is the kicker. A recent survey showed that the pacers bring an average of 55 million dollars to the city each year....


So looking at it as an investment isnt really that bad of a deal. Spend 10 million a year to make 55....

But at the cost of what?


Where do you guys stand? Do you have a shitty team no one likes in your city, or does your city spend too much on your team? What is it?





ps - Mods, I posted this in this forum because of the talks of economic impact, which is political...

If it turns a profit, where's the negative?

I don't understand where the debate is. If you said that it was a money losing proposition and the discussion was 'is it worth it to have a sports team even if means a loss for the city?', I could understand the point. So what's the point?

but will they?

lol, if the pacers keep shooting people at night clubs, and loosing every game....



THe only reason we had to renegotiate and pay this money to keep them, was because they could not pay the bills at Conseco Fieldhouse on thier own....because NO ONE here goes to pacer games anymore...maybe a crowd of 2 k a night?

Originally Posted by Kraker Jak

but will they?

But you said they do.

Where exactly is the contentious issue? They turn a profit according to you.

Originally Posted by Nuckle

It is a business like any other. What they choose to pay their players or employees is their business. Do I think it is crazy for a guy to make a kabillion dollars for being able to dribble a basketball? Fuck Yes. Would I do the same if I had that talent and someone was willing to pay for it? You betcha. As long as we continue to buy T-Shirts, hats and tickets they will continue to do what they do.

Thats the problem here.

They are not selling tickets anymore, so they came to the city for money because they are failing.


Trigger, I did not say they turn a profit. I'm quoting the story, showing both sides of the argument. Personally, I would like to see HOW they bring in 55 million to the city. Alot of that might just be stupid shit like random polls of how many people go to a down town bar to watch a game...

I highly doubt most stadiums make money, if they did you would think we'd see private businesses wanting to build them (or the team itself).

I think it may have to do with an "entertainment" license from the city. Grants them permission to use thier name...ie Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks etc...