When you think about the state of Oregon, the first thing that comes into your mind are the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture that characterize the region. However, the state also prides itself on its rich and diverse sporting scene.
Right from traditional sports such as basketball where the Portland Trail Blazers are popular, football at University of Oregon, and baseball at Oregon State University–sporting choices in Oregon now include the fast-growing electronic games, there is something for every type of fan. In this article, we explore the most popular sports in Oregon, examining the major teams and the unique sports culture that thrives in the state.
Basketball
If you are to rank the sporting activities in the state of Oregon by their popularity, basketball will be highly ranked. Oregon’s deep passion for basketball is shown by Oregon’s major sports teams such as the Portland Trail Blazers and the University of Oregon among others. The Blazers is currently the prominent Oregon pro sports team as well as the only NBA team. The team has a huge fan base in the state.
Established in the 1970s, the NBA team has recorded various successes including the NBA Championship title in 1977 among other tournaments. Similar to professional basketball, college, and high school games attract substantial popularity. Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers are known for their historically strong basketball programs. The rivalry between the two Oregon giants, the oldest college sports, is well documented with pundits describing it as the event that draws considerable attention every year.
Portland Timbers are fun to watch! (Screenshot from Portland Timbers Video)
Soccer: A Growing Passion
Sports analysts have noted a growing passion for soccer in Oregon, especially over the last few decades. Perhaps this message is driven home by the article that appeared on Oregon Live some years back where the title stated that “soccer is growing fast and the best days are ahead.”
Oregon has two major soccer teams, namely:
The Portland Timbers (MLS)
The Portland Thorns (NWSL).
The Timbers and Thorns have a huge following in Oregon and are greatly attributed to the growth of football as well as the vibrant sports culture in the state. Timbers was established close to two decades ago and has been one of the most successful teams in the Major League Soccer (MLS) having won the tournament in 2015 and in subsequent years, has been a strong contender. Similarly, the Thorns has been one of the most successful teams in the National Women’s Soccer League with the team winning multiple titles as well as drawing huge crowds in the game.
Esports
Although traditional sports still dominate the landscape, one cannot ignore esports. Modern sports as pundits describe them have been gaining traction in Oregon. A significant number of Esports teams have come up signaling the growing popularity of the games. Young players have formed or become members of the most valuable esports teams that are popular with sports betting enthusiasts and currently competing both at national and international levels.
Esports is becoming popular! (Photo by Pricilla Du Preez CA on Unsplash.com)
Experts observe that the steady rise of esports in Oregon is part of a broader national and global trend. A recent report indicated that Oregon has been part of this growth with esports teams in the state becoming some of the most valuable in the country and the world. The development can be a vibrant tech scene, particularly in urban areas and cities such as Portland.
The University of Oregon report above also notes that Esports has found a home in Oregon’s higher learning institutions, with several universities and colleges offering esports programs. The programs have played a great role in providing opportunities for students to compete as well as study the business and technology aspects of the industry.
Just like its landscapes, Oregon’s sports culture can be described as diverse. Right from the Portland Trail Blazers basketball fan base to the passionate Timbers and Thorns soccer supporters, traditional sports are well rooted in the state’s identity. Equally, the rise of esports is introducing a new generation of fans that will take sporting culture in the States a notch higher.
OregonReigns
Lakeside, Oregon
Top Screenshot from Fox Sports Video
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OregonReigns is an occasional contributor to FishDuck and loves his Ducks!