As society deteriorates into its final stages, there is more need (and desire for) mindless "entertainment."
The working and middle classes, rendered impotent and helpless by our system, can feel empowered and virile by proxy - by watching "their team" win a game. It's a safe way to vent the rage/frustration that would otherwise be directed at worthwhile objects, such as doing something about the systematic exploitation of everyday people by the corporatocracy.
It's really pathetic.