What does 'competitive balance' mean in professional sports?

'Competitive balance' in professional sports refers to the concept of creating an environment where no single team dominates the league for extended periods, allowing all teams a fair opportunity to compete for championships. This balance is crucial for ensuring fan interest, as it allows for unpredictability and excitement in each season.

When teams have a fair chance of winning, it promotes a more engaging and competitive atmosphere, benefiting the league as a whole. Various measures, such as salary caps, revenue sharing, and draft systems, are often implemented to maintain competitive balance. These practices help to level the playing field, encouraging competition and ensuring that games remain meaningful throughout the season.

Other concepts, such as maximizing revenue for the highest paid teams, focusing on media coverage for top teams, or offering the same salary to all players, do not align with the concept of competitive balance. They might lead to unequal competition and diminish the overall quality and excitement of the league.