The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has made 2020 one of the more difficult years in recent memory, but from a sports perspective, the city of Los Angeles thrived. The Dodgers and Lakers each delivered a championship, helping L.A. earn “Best Sports City of the Year” honors from Street & Smith’s Sports Business Journal.
“This process allowed us to look back at an incredible period of change in sports business,” said SBJ executive editor Abraham Madkour said.
“We were certainly challenged to pick just one winner in each category because there were so many outstanding candidates that speak to just how much innovation has taken place in sports during this challenging year.”
The Dodgers cruised to an MLB-best 43 wins during the abbreviated regular season and continued playing at a high level in the playoffs, sweeping the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego in the first two rounds.
The club then erased a 3-1 deficit against the Atlanta Braves in the National League Championship Series before going on to defeat the Tampa Bays in the World Series — putting to bed the franchise’s title drought that dated back to 1988.
The Lakers also took home their first championship since 2010, led by the play of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
While the Dodgers and Lakers winning championships played a big part in L.A. winning “Best Sports City of the Year” honors, SBJ also considered the opening of SoFi Stadium, which is shared by the L.A. Rams and L.A. Chargers.
Other accomplishments include the launch of Angel City FC, who will play in the National Women’s Soccer League, and the reveal of the official logo for the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games.
Roberts, Kershaw open to joint Dodgers-Lakers championship celebration
Given the current climate, the Dodgers and Lakers haven’t been able to hold the customary parade to celebrate their respective championships with the fans. However, the teams announced plans to do so whenever the public health situation improves.
One scenario that was thought to be under consideration was a joint parade at Griffith Park. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and Clayton Kershaw are among those in favor of the idea, as it would unite the two most popular teams in L.A. together.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events and more!
