The Major Sports Leagues (usually called the ‘Major Leagues’) are the largest leagues that represent the professional epitome of Big Sports. Many people believe that the Major Leagues are synonymous with the Big Leagues but our definition also includes Rival Leagues that are no longer in operation. Some examples:
- Major League Baseball (National League and American League)
- American Association
- National Hockey League
- Pacific Coast Hockey Association
- National Football League
- All-American Football Conference
- National Basketball Association
- American Basketball League
The Major Sports Leagues are defined by possessing the four criteria:
- They attract the best players worldwide
- Are home to that Big Sports richest teams
- Are exclusive in who can join the league
- Are ambitious in their scope and marketing