For the last three seasons, we have awarded the NIHOF NBA Cup by awarding the best five players in the game with descending points, 5-4-3-2-1.  Obviously, we can’t watch all the games, but box scores and write ups give an approximate idea as to who were each game’s top five.

This year, we decided to the same for the WNBA.

The top players for the WNBA NIHOF Cup are not always the best in the league, as injuries keep players out of games, and a premium on staying healthy can help pile up points.  It also does not hurt to be a top player on an average or mediocre team, as they can amass Cup points easier that elite players on loaded squads.  

Please remember, that this is NOT necessarily who we think were the best players this year, and does not reflect overall consistency, but snapshots of each game.

Treat this the way did, as a fun process and more of a compilation of temporary statistical domination.  

So, like we said the last two years in other leagues, WNBA players!  Get your agents to work winning this into your contracts!

Here are the final 2023 top ten rankings for the WNBA NIHOF CUP:

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE INCLUDING THE COMMISIONERS CUP FINAL IN CUP POINTS.

1. A’Ja Wilson: Las Vegas Aces, Forward:

149 PTS, 41 Games*, 3.63 Cup Points per Game, 22.8 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 2.2 BPG, 32.9 PER, 10.4 WS.

Wilson “only” finished third in MVP voting, preventing her a third win, but selfishly, we think she got a nice consolation in winning the inaugural Notinhalloffame.com WNBA Cup!  Wilson also won her second straight Defensive Player of the Year, went to her fifth All-Star Game, was named a First Team All-WNBA player, and was the Player of the Month in June and July.  She also led the league in Blocks per Game (2.2), PER (32.9), Win Shares (10.4), Defensive Win Shares (3.5), Defensive Rating (93.2) and was second in Rebounds per Game (9.5) and third in Points per Game (22.8).  Wait, why didn’t she win the MVP?

2. Breanna Stewart: New York Liberty, Forward:

139 PTS, 41 Games*, 3.39 Cup Points per Game, 23.0 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.6 BPG, 28.6 PER, 10.3 WS

Stewart was phenomenal in her first season in New York and she won the MVP, her second, with the first coming in 2018.  Now a five-time All-Star, Stewart earned her third straight First Team All-WNBA honor and fourth overall, while also winning three Player of the Month Awards.  Statistically, she was second in Points (23.0), third in Rebounds (9.3), fourth in Blocks (1.6) and eighth in Steals per Game (1.4), with a second-place spot in PER (28.6).

3. Alyssa Thomas: Connecticut Sun, Forward:

123 PTS, 40 Games, 3.08 Cup Points per Game, 15.6 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 7.9 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 20.8 PER, 6.1 WS. 

Thomas had the season of her life, finishing second in MVP voting, was an All-Star for the fourth time and her the best numbers of her career.  Thomas became the all-time leader in triple-doubles, and was a hair away from averaging a double-double this season.  She also became an All-WNBA player for the first time, a second Team nod, and Thomas also won her first Rebounding Title.  She was also second in Assists (7.9), third in Steals (1.8), and earned her second First Team All-Defensive Selection.

4. Napheesa Collier: Minnesota Lynx, Forward:

126 PTS, 37 Games, 3.41 Cup Points per Game, 21.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 24.9 PER, 5.2 WS

The 2019 WNBA Rookie of the Year had already been to two All-Star Games, but she added a third in what should be considered her true WNBA arrival.  Collier was a Second Team All-Defensive Selection, was fifth in PER (24.9) and was fourth in Points per Game, the first time she broke the top ten.

5. Nneka Ogwumike: Los Angeles Sparks, Forward:

124 PTS, 36 Games, 3.44 Cup Points per Game, 19.1 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 25.3 PER, 5.6 WS

The 2018 MVP fought her way to the top in Cup Points at one point, but injuries cost her a handful of games. This year, she went to her eighth All-Star Game, was a Second Team All-Defensive player, and was sixth in Points, Rebounds and Steals per Game.  Ogwumike was also third in PER (25.3).

6. Jewell Loyd: Seattle Storm, Guard: 

112 PTS, 38 Games, 2.95 Cup Points per Game, 24.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 20.1 PER, 3.4 WS

Loyd was the All-Star Game MVP in her fifth trip, and she became the star of the Storm, though that did not translate into a lot of wins.  She won he first Scoring Title (24.7), and also led the league in Usage Percentage for the first time (33.0).

7. Satou Sabally: Dallas Wings, Forward:

93 PTS, 38 Games, 2.45 Cup Points per Game, 18.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 21.9 PER, 5.9 WS

Sabally’s fourth season saw her net a second All-Star Game and win the Most Improved Player Award.  She was also recognized for her philanthropy, winning the Community Assist Award.  Sabally also finished in the top ten in Points per Game, Rebounds per Game and PER for the first time.

8. DeWanna Bonner: Connecticut Sun, Forward:

92 PTS, 40 Games, 2.30 Cup Points per Game, 17.4 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 20.7 PER, 5.4 WS

Bonner has the most years logged in the top ten, and the 14-year veteran added a fifth All-Star Game this year.

9. Arike Ogunbowale: Dallas Wings, Guard:

92 PTS, 40 Games, 2.30 Cup Points per Game, 21.2 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 16.7 PER, 4.2 WS

Ogunbowale is now on a three-year streak of All-Star Games, and is also now a two-time winner of the Community Assist Award.  She logged more minutes (1,486) than any other player, and led the WNBA in Minutes per Game (37.2) with a fifth-place finish in PPG (21.2)

10. Jackie Young: Las Vegas Aces, Guard:

87 PTS, 41* Games, 2.12 Cup Points per Game, 17.6 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 22.6 PER, 7.5 WS.

Young added her second All-Star Game this season, and would lead the WNBA in Effective Field Goal Percentage (,617), and was third in Win Shares (7.5), Offensive Win Shares (5.5).  She was also second in 3-Point Field Goal Percentage (.449) and True Shooting Percentage (.657).

A bit more on 11-25:

11. Natasha Howard: Dallas Wings, Forward:

83 PTS, 39 Games, 2.13 Cup Points per Game, 16.5 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 17.5 PER, 3.7 WS

This was Howard’s first year with the Wings and she had her best PPG (16.5) since 2019.

12. (TIE) Kahleah Copper: Chicago Sky, Guard-Forward:

82 PTS, 38 Games, 2.16 Cup Points per Game, 18.7 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 16.4 PER, 2.1 WS

Copper led the Sky in Cup Points, had her best year in the league, and is on a three-year run of All-Star Games.

12. (TIE) Kelsey Plum: Las Vegas Aces, Guard:

82 PTS, 40 Games, 2.05 Cup Points per Game, 18.7 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.0 BPG, 20.3 PER, 6.3 WS

Plum did not secure her second straight 20-plus year in PPG, but did have a second All-Star Game appearance.

14. Sabrina Ionescu: New York Liberty, Guard:

81 PTS, 37 Games, 2.19 Cup Points per Game, 17.0 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 20.7 PER, 5.6 WS

Ionescu went to her second All-Star Game, and led the league in 3-Point Field Goals (128).

15. Cheyenne Parker: Atlanta Dream, Forward:

80 PTS, 40 Games, 2.00 Cup Points per Game, 15.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.5 BPG, 21.0 PER, 3.7 WS

Parker was an All-Star for the first time in her nine-year career, and she had more Cup Points than any other Atlanta player.

16 (TIE). Chelsea Gray: Las Vegas Aces, Forward:

79 PTS, 41 Games, 1.93 Cup Points per Game, 15.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 21.8 PER, 7.0 WS

Gray added her fifth All-Star Game this season and was third in Assists per Game (7.3).  This is a very good player on a loaded Aces team.

16 (TIE). Brittney Sykes: Washington Mystics, Guard:

79 PTS, 40 Games, 1.94 Cup Points per Game, 15.9 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.8 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 18.6 PER, 3.9 WS

Sykes had the most Cup Points of any player in Washington, and this was arguably her best season among the seven in the WNBA.  She was second in Steals per Game (2.1), and was named a First Team All-Defensive player for the second time.

18. Exi Magbegor: Seattle Storm, Center:

72 PTS, 40 Games, 1.80 Cup Points per Game, 13.8 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.9 BPG, 18.0 PER, 3.8 WS

Magbegor went to her first All-Star Game this year, and was a Second Team All-Defensive Player for the second straight year.  She was also the runner-up in Blocks per Game (1.9).

19 (TIE). Allisha Gray: Atlanta Dream, Guard:

71 PTS, 38 Games, 1.87 Cup Points per Game, 17.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.9 BPG, 18.8 PER, 5.0 WS

Gray went to his first All-Star Game in what was also his first year in Atlanta.

19 (TIE). Aliyah Boston: Indiana Fever, Forward-Center:

71 PTS, 40 Games, 1.87 Cup Points per Game, 17.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.4 BPG, 18.8 PER, 5.0 WS

It was a great rookie season for Boston, who was an All-Star, led all Fever players in Cup Points, and topped the league in Field Goal Percentage (.578).

21. Kelsey Mitchell: Indiana Fever, Guard:

70 PTS, 40 Games, 1.85 Cup Points per Game, 18.2 PPG, 1.6 RPG, 3.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 16.6 PER, 3.3 WS

Mitchell was an All-Star for the first time in her six-year career.

22 (TIE). Brittney Griner: Phoenix Mercury, Center:

67 PTS, 31 Games, 2.16 Cup Points per Game, 17.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.6 BPG, 25.1 PER, 3.1 WS

Griner returned after a year in Russian prison, and when healthy, was still one of the best players in the league.

22 (TIE). Rhyne Howard: Phoenix Mercury, Guard:

67 PTS, 39 Games, 1.72 Cup Points per Game, 17.5 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 16.7 PER, 3.5 WS

Only in the WNBA for two years, Howard has been an All-Star in both of them.  The 2002 Rookie of the Year is a player on the rise.

24. Jonquel Jones: New York Liberty, Forward:

64 PTS, 40 Games, 1.60 Cup Points per Game, 11.3 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 20.1 PER, 4.7 WS

Like Breanna Stewart, Jones is in her first year in New York, though she did not add another All-Star to her resume this season.

25. Elena Delle Donne: Washington Mystics, Forward-Guard:

56 PTS, 23 Games, 2.00 Cup Points per Game, 16.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 BPG, 23.0 PER, 2.9 WS

Injuries prevented her from being higher on this list, as she was in the top ten early in the season.

The stats of 26-50:

26. Teiira McCowan: Dallas Wings, Center:

54 PTS, 30 Games, 1.80 Cup Points per Game, 11.9 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 20.7 PER, 3.2 WS

27 (TIE). NaLyssa Smith: Connecticut Sun, Forward:

49 PTS, 31 Games, 1.58 Cup Points per Game, 15.5 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 16.5 PER, 1.2 WS

27 (TIE). Natasha Cloud: Washington Mystics, Guard:

49 PTS, 37 Games, 1.32 Cup Points per Game, 12.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 14.2 PER, 2.6 WS

29. Courtney Vandersloot: New York Liberty, Guard:

47 PTS, 39 Games, 1.21 Cup Points per Game, 10.5 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 8.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 16.7 PER, 4.5 WS

30. Marina Mabrey: Chicago Sky, Guard:

46 PTS, 39 Games, 1.21 Cup Points per Game, 15.0 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 15.9 PER, 2.6 WS

31. Jordin Canada: Los Angeles Sparks, Guard:

42 PTS, 38 Games, 1.10 Cup Points per Game, 13.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 6.0 APG, 2.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG, 16.9 PER, 3.4 WS

32. Tiffany Hayes: Connecticut Sun, Guard:

41 PTS, 40 Games, 1.01 Cup Points per Game, 12.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 16.0 PER, 4.2 WS

33. Courtney Williams: Chicago Sky, Guard:

40 PTS, 40 Games, 1.00 Cup Points per Game, 10.4 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 6.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 15.4 PER, 2.4 WS

34. Diana Taurasi: Phoenix Mercury, Guard:

38 PTS, 26 Games, 1.46 Cup Points per Game, 16.0 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 4.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 17.8 PER, 1.1 WS

35. Alanna Smith: Chicago Sky, Forward:

37 PTS, 38 Games, 0.98 Cup Points per Game, 9.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.3 BPG, 17.8 PER, 1.1 WS

36. Kayla McBride: Minnesota Lynx, Guard:

35 PTS, 38 Games, 0.92 Cup Points per Game, 14.3 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.2 PG, 0.2 BPG, 14.5 PER, 2.2 WS

37 (TIE). Elizabeth Williams: Chicago Sky, Center-Forward:

30 PTS, 40 Games, 0.75 Cup Points per Game, 9.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.5 APG, 1.3 PG, 1.5 BPG, 16.8 PER, 3.7 WS

37 (TIE). Azura Stevens: Los Angeles Sparks, Center:

30 PTS, 35 Games, 0.85 Cup Points per Game, 10.8 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.9 BPG, 13.8 PER, 1.2 WS

39 (TIE). Dearica Hamby: Los Angeles Sparks, Forward:

29 PTS, 40 Games, 0.73 Cup Points per Game, 8.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 12.8 PER, 1.6 WS

39 (TIE). Betnijah Laney: New York Liberty, Guard-Forward:

29 PTS, 40 Games, 0.73 Cup Points per Game, 12.8 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 13.8 PER, 3.4 WS

41. Tianna Hawkins: Washington Mystics, Forward:

26 PTS, 40 Games, 0.65 Cup Points per Game, 8.2 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 14.5 PER, 2.8 WS

42. Breonna Jones: Connecticut Sun, Forward:

24 PTS, 13 Games, 1.85 Cup Points per Game, 15.9 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 22.9 PER, 2.3 WS

43 (TIE) Shakira Austin: Washington Mystics, Center-Forward:

23 PTS, 19 Games, 1.21 Cup Points per Game, 10.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 BPG, 15.6 PER, 0.9 WS

43 (TIE) Ariel Atkins: Washington Mystics, Guard:

23 PTS, 27 Games, 0.85 Cup Points per Game, 11.5 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.9 BPG, 16.0 PER, 2.1 WS

45 (TIE) Layshia Clarendon: Los Angeles Sparks, Guard:

22 PTS, 24 Games, 0.92 Cup Points per Game, 11.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.0 BPG, 14.7 PER, 1.9 WS

45 (TIE) Sophie Cunningham: Phoenix Mercury, Guard:

22 PTS, 31 Games, 0.71 Cup Points per Game, 11.3 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 12.1 PER, 1.3 WS

45 (TIE) Moriah Jefferson: Phoenix Mercury, Guard:

22 PTS, 39 Games, 0.56 Cup Points per Game, 10.5 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG, 14.0 PER, 0.8 WS

48 (TIE) Azura Stevens: Los Angeles Sparks, Center:

20 PTS, 35 Games, 0.57 Cup Points per Game, 10.8 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 13.8 PER, 1.2 WS

48 (TIE) Michaela Onyenwere: Phoenix Mercury, Forward:

20 PTS, 40 Games, 0.50 Cup Points per Game, 8.9 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.8 BPG, 9.4 PER, -0.7 WS

50 (TIE) Natisha Hiedeman: Connecticut Sun, Guard:

19 PTS, 40 Games, 0.48 Cup Points per Game, 8.5 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 9.3 PER, 1.5 WS

50 (TIE) Erica Wheeler: Indiana Fever, Guard:

19 PTS, 40 Games, 0.48 Cup Points per Game, 9.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 13.6 PER, 1.4 WS

50 (TIE) Jordan Horston: Seattle Storm, Guard-Forward:

19 PTS, 36 Games, 0.53 Cup Points per Game, 6.9 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 9.1 PER, -0.7 WS

The rest of the list:

53. 16 Points:  Dorka Juhasz: Minnesota Lynx, Forward

53. 16 Points:  Sami Whitcomb: Seattle Storm, Guard

55. 15 Points:  Dana Evans, Chicago Sky, Guard

55. 15 Points:  Megan Gustafson, Phoenix Mercury, Center

55. 15 Points:  Sug Sutton, Phoenix Mercury, Guard

58. 14 Points:  Jessica Shepard, Minnesota Lynx, Forward

58. 14 Points:  Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadu, Seattle Storm, Forward-Center

60. 13 Points:  Kalani Brown, Dallas Wings, Center

60. 13 Points:  Karlie Samuelsson, Los Angeles Sparks, Guard

62. 12 Points:  Olivia Nelson-Ododa, Connecticut Sun, Center

63. 11 Points:  Rebecca Allen, Connecticut Sun, Guard

63. 11 Points:  Emma Cannon, Indiana Fever, Forward

63. 11 Points:  Marine Johannes, New York Liberty, Guard

66. 10 Points:  DiJonai Carrington, Connecticut Sun, Guard-Forward

66. 10 Points:  Queen Egbo, Washington Mystics, Forward-Center

68. 9 Points:  Victoria Vivians, Indiana Fever, Guard

68. 9 Points:  Lexie Brown, Los Angeles Sparks, Guard

70. 8 Points:  Nia Coffey, Atlanta Dream, Forward

70. 8 Points:  Chiney Ogwumike, Los Angeles Sparks, Forward-Center

70. 8 Points:  Diamond Miller, Minnesota Lynx, Guard

70. 8 Points:  Gabby Williams, Seattle Storm, Forward

74. 7 Points:  Monique Billings, Atlanta Dream, Forward

74. 7 Points:  Tyasha Harris, Connecticut Sun, Guard

74. 7 Points:  Candace Parker, Las Vegas Aces, Forward-Center

77. 6 Points:  Danielle Robinson, Atlanta Dream, Guard

77. 6 Points:  Lindsay Allen, Minnesota Lynx, Guard

77. 6 Points:  Tiffany Mitchell, Minnesota Lynx, Guard

80. 5 Points:  Aeriel Powers, Minnesota Lynx, Forward-Guard

80. 5 Points:  Shey Peddy, Phoenix Mercury, Guard

82. 4 Points:  Haley Jones, Atlanta Dream, Forward-Guard

82. 4 Points:  Crystal Dangerfield, Dallas Wings, Guard

82. 4 Points:  Kristy Wallace, Indiana Fever, Guard

82. 4 Points:  Kiah Stokes, Las Vegas Aces, Center

82. 4 Points:  Brianna Turner, Phoenix Mercury, Forward

82. 4 Points:  Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, Washington Mystics, Guard

88. 3 Points:  Morgan Bertsch, Chicago Sky, Forward

88. 3 Points:  Lexie Hull, Indiana Fever, Guard

88. 3 Points:  Kierstan Bell, Las Vegas Aces, Guard

88. 3 Points:  Bridget Carleton, Minnesota Lynx, Forward

88. 3 Points:  Rachel Banham, Minnesota Lynx, Guard

93. 2 Points:  Naz Hillmon, Atlanta Dream, Forward

93. 2 Points:  AD Durr, Atlanta Dream, Guard

93. 2 Points:  Aari McDonald, Atlanta Dream, Guard

93. 2 Points:  Destanni Henderson, Los Angeles Sparks, Guard

93. 2 Points:  Li Meng, Washington Mystics, Guard

93. 2 Points:  Myesha Hines-Allen, Washington Mystics, Forward

102. 1 Point:  Rebekah Gardner, Chicago Sky, Guard

102. 1 Point:  Kristine Anigwe, Chicago Sky, Forward-Center

102. 1 Point:  Robyn Parks, Connecticut Sun, Forward

102. 1 Point:  Grace Berger, Indiana Fever, Guard

102. 1 Point:  Alysha Clark, Las Vegas Aces, Forward

102. 1 Point:  Nikolina Millc, Minnesota Lynx, Forward

102. 1 Point:  Stefanie Dolson, New York Liberty, Center

102. 1 Point:  Kayla Thornton, New York Liberty, Forward

102. 1 Point:  Jocelyn Willoughby, New York Liberty, Forward-Guard

102. 1 Point:  Kia Nurse, Seattle Storm, Guard

102. 1 Point:  Mercedes Russell, Seattle Storm, Center

Thank you for making it all the way through!

In the heartland of America, where autumn winds carry whispers of age-old rivalries, the National Football League (NFL) is more than just a game. It's a cultural spectacle, a binding fabric of society, reverberating through time with tales of heroism, fellowship, and the ceaseless pursuit of victory. Here, NFL football isn't merely a sport; it's a legacy carried through generations, a Sunday ritual, a topic of daily discourse.

The Social Glue

The NFL acts as a social adhesive, bringing together diverse groups under a common banner. Whether it's the communal exhilaration in a winning touchdown or the shared agony of defeat, these emotional roller-coasters cultivate a sense of belonging. This camaraderie is often most apparent in the allegiance to teams, with entities like the Dallas Cowboys not only representing a city but embodying a collective identity. The Dallas Cowboys odds of winning on any given Sunday, for instance, becomes a matter of civic pride and social conversation, intertwining the fate of a football team with the hopes of a community.

A Mirror to Society

The NFL has often mirrored societal changes and issues, becoming a stage where national dialogues unfold. Players taking a knee to protest racial injustice or the league's evolving stance on player safety amidst the growing number of concussions reflect broader societal concerns. Through these actions and reactions, the NFL serves as a microcosm of larger societal dynamics, shedding light on the evolving national narrative.

Economic Juggernaut

The financial impact of NFL football is undeniable. From ticket sales and merchandise to billion-dollar broadcasting deals, the sport is a financial powerhouse. The ripple effects extend to local economies, with game-day festivities fueling business for local bars, restaurants, and retail outlets. The financial symbiosis between the NFL, its cities, and the national economy is a testament to the sport's integral role in the economic landscape.

The Legacy of Competition

The competitive spirit that the NFL epitomizes is emblematic of the broader American ethos. The hard-fought battles on the gridiron echo the nation's values of perseverance, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The legacies created by iconic rivalries, momentous victories, and heart-wrenching defeats transcend the game, entering the realms of folklore and national identity.

Educational Catalyst

The NFL also plays a part in educational endeavors. Through scholarship programs and initiatives aimed at promoting physical fitness and discipline among the youth, the NFL contributes to the holistic development of individuals. Moreover, college football acts as a springboard for both athletic and academic opportunities, underlining the educational facet of the sport's cultural footprint.

Conclusion

As the final whistle echoes through the crisp autumn air, one can't help but reflect on the enthralling journey through the heartbeats of communities, the conscience of a nation, the bustling economy, the valor of competition, and the informative spirit of the game. The NFL is not merely a game but a narrative that encapsulates myriad facets of American life, each touchdown a page in the unfolding saga of a culture intertwined with pigskin. Through the cacophony of cheers, the highs and lows, the NFL continues to be a poignant emblem of America's cultural tapestry.

Basketball and football command enthusiastic followings in Kentucky. While both sports have merit, one maintains a decisive edge in popularity according to fan participation, local traditions, and cultural influence.

A Close Look at Preferences

When it comes to sports, people in Kentucky often find themselves debating two major options: basketball and NFL. Local sports bars, community events, and even family gatherings turn into hotbeds of discussion. There's a belief that basketball runs in the blood of Kentuckians, but the NFL also has a significant presence.

Statistics Speak Volumes

According to data, attendance at college basketball games, particularly for teams like the Kentucky Wildcats, often surpasses local NFL game attendance. TV ratings also suggest a leaning towards basketball. However, it's essential to consider that Kentucky doesn't have an NFL team, which could potentially skew the numbers. Nonetheless, TV viewership and stadium attendance provide valuable insights.

The University of Kentucky Phenomenon

The role of the University of Kentucky in shaping preferences cannot be overstated. With a history that boasts multiple NCAA championships, the basketball program has created a community that closely follows the sport. Conversely, NFL events, while respected, don't offer the same sense of local identity.

Cultural Factors

Culture plays a significant role in the sports people choose to follow. In Kentucky, basketball is often more accessible. Kids grow up shooting hoops in their backyard. Schools prioritize basketball programs, and local heroes in the sport are common. In contrast, the infrastructure and support for aspiring NFL athletes are not as widespread.

Economic Considerations

Basketball games are generally more affordable to attend than NFL games, a fact that impacts preference. The cost of a basketball ticket, concessions, and memorabilia often total less than attending an NFL match, even when you account for the price of travel to a neighboring state for an NFL game.

Athletic Programs and Community Involvement

Athletic programs at both the school and college levels tend to favor basketball, offering more opportunities for scholarships and community engagement. Local organizations often sponsor basketball tournaments, fostering a sense of unity and local pride around the sport. The NFL, while not lacking in community programs, does not offer the same local appeal.

Media Influence

Local media coverage also sways preferences. Newspapers, sports channels, and even local news websites often give more space to basketball, discussing the ins and outs of upcoming games, player statistics, and season predictions. Coverage of the NFL is usually more generalized, focusing on teams from other states rather than local interest.

Social Aspects

The social setting around watching sports also differs between basketball and NFL. Watching a basketball game is often a more frequent, communal event. It's easier to catch a quick game at the local bar or at home with family and friends. NFL games, often longer and less frequent, require a different kind of commitment, perhaps contributing to a lesser degree of local preference.

The Impact of Merchandise

One can't overlook the influence of merchandise. Jerseys, basketballs, and other paraphernalia related to basketball are more common, easily available, and affordable. This likely contributes to a general preference for basketball over the NFL, even if it's a less-discussed factor.

Impact of Seasonality

While basketball and the NFL have different seasons, the timing of each could influence people's preferences. Basketball season includes the winter months, providing indoor entertainment when outdoor activities are limited. The NFL, predominantly a fall and early-winter sport, competes with various outdoor events and traditions in Kentucky, potentially affecting the number of dedicated viewers and attendees.

Role of Alumni and School Affiliations

Another contributing factor is the connection to educational institutions. Kentucky is home to several universities with strong basketball programs, which create a pipeline of dedicated fans who continue to support their teams long after graduation. Though the NFL has its fair share of fans who are loyal to specific teams due to college affiliations, the local ties created by universities like the University of Kentucky can significantly tip the scale in favor of basketball.

Accessibility and Grassroots Programs

Easy access to a sport can greatly affect its following. Basketball courts are a common sight in many communities in Kentucky, allowing for casual games and fostering an early interest in the sport. Many schools and local community centers run basketball programs for children, giving them a direct pathway to engage with the sport from a young age. This early and consistent exposure to basketball creates a predisposition toward the sport, which is less common with football, where the investment in equipment and facilities is considerably higher.

Corporate Sponsorships and Investment

Corporate involvement in sports can't be overlooked. Local and national companies often invest in basketball programs, tournaments, and events, perhaps due to the high levels of community engagement these programs offer. These sponsorships add a financial boost to the basketball ecosystem in Kentucky, providing funds for better facilities, training programs, and community events. The NFL also enjoys considerable corporate sponsorship but often at a national level, rather than targeted local involvement.

Sports Affinities: From Courts to Fields

Kentucky holds a unique position when it comes to the sports its residents enjoy. Both basketball and the NFL have significant followings, but basketball generally has a deeper emotional connection with the locals. Universities with storied basketball programs contribute to this preference. However, the recent rise in sports betting, exemplified by the increased usage of promotions like the BetMGM Kentucky bonus code, indicates an evolving engagement with both sports. So, while basketball remains entrenched in the state's culture, the NFL is making inroads. The current dynamic suggests a coexistence rather than an outright replacement.

Conclusion

Statistical data suggests that basketball has a strong foothold in Kentucky. The sport's community involvement and the state's collegiate success in basketball may account for this preference when compared to the NFL.

An era has ended.

Miguel Cabrera played his last game yesterday, concluding the career of one of the best hitters of the last twenty years.

From Venezuela, Cabrera broke in with the Florida Marlins in 2003, where he immediately helped them with the World Series.  A rising star who went to the next four All-Star Games, the frugal Marlins traded Cabrera to Detroit in 2008, where his game reached a new level.

An All-Star annually from 2010 to 2016, Cabrera won two Home Run Titles, four Batting Titles, two OPS Titles, and two MVPs.  Cabrera also won seven Silver Sluggers.

He retires with 511 Home Runs, 3,174 Hits and a lifetime Slash Line of .306/.382/.518.

Cabrera will be eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2029, and should be a first ballot entry.

We here at Notinhalloffame.com would like to wish Miguel Cabrera the best in his post-playing career.