"If there are dominant teams, people enjoy discussing whether that's good or bad for the game, and if there aren't any dominant teams, then people enjoy discussing that"

Al Michaels' quote touches on the nature of sports fans and their engagement with the dynamics of competition. At its core, the statement highlights an inherent paradox in sports fandom relating to the presence or lack of dominant teams. It captures the essence of how discourse in sports is frequently fueled by the dominating scenarios of competitors, regardless of what those specifics may be.

When dominant teams emerge, such as dynasties in sports like basketball, football, or soccer, they become centerpieces for conversation and argument. Fans and experts frequently purposeful whether the supremacy is advantageous or detrimental to the sport. On one hand, dominant teams can draw in viewers, produce competitions, and raise standards of play. They work as benchmarks, encouraging other groups to increase to the difficulty, possibly improving the total quality of the sport. Conversely, prolonged supremacy by a few can result in predictability, which may lessen excitement and competitive balance, causing some fans to lose interest.

On the other hand, when there is no clear dominant team and the competitors is more balanced, the conversation shifts. Fans relish the unpredictability and the excitement of seeing various groups rise to prominence. This environment fosters hope and engagement across a wider fan base, as more teams have the opportunity to prosper. However, some might argue that the lack of a dominant team might imply a lack of quality or star power, possibly impacting the sport's overall appeal and marketability.

Michaels' observation highlights that fans flourish on narrative and debate, and the nature of those discussions is fluid, adapting to the existing state of the sport. Whether controlled by a couple of or large open, each scenario presents its own set of narratives. The overarching theme is that both circumstances offer sufficient material for continuous discussion amongst fans, keeping the spirit of competition alive and appealing.