Mixed Bag: The Sports Business Hits & Misses Of 2016

For some, the end of ‘16 offers an opportunity to revel one more time in the accomplishments of the past year. For others, it is a chance to put the mistakes of the past year behind them and start anew. Here, we consider both of those groups as we look back on the biggest hits and worst misses of ’16.

Fans' election of John Scott (l) to the NHL All-Star game offered a compelling storyline

HITS: GREAT SCOTT
Some viewed the NHL All-Star Game as becoming stale and boring in recent years, so the folks at the league office turned the event into a 3-on-3 mini-tournament between the four divisions with a cash prize for the players. The fast-paced, competitive action in Nashville made for better viewing, but it was enforcer John Scott, voted in by a contingent of mischievous fans, who made the ’16 installment one for the ages. Scott stole the hearts of hockey fans everywhere en route to MVP honors, while NBCSN drew its highest rating ever for the event.

Also:

• Olympic golf draws widespread praise from fans and players despite high-profile withdrawals.
• ESPN’s five-part "O.J.: Made In America" documentary receives critical acclaim, award consideration.
• The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association achieves new heights with Big Air at Fenway event.
• The NFL gives its players a voice, promotes noble causes with the “My Cause, My Cleats” initiative.

MISSES: ACCESS DENIED
The Big 12’s notice of its intention to consider expansion candidates gave Group of Five schools across the country hope of realizing their Power Five dreams. After subjecting 17 schools to an initial application process and trimming the field to 12 over the course of several months, Commissioner Bob Bowlsby announced that the conference wouldn’t expand after all. In addition to drawing rebukes from candidate schools, public officials and the media, the Big 12 reaffirmed its position as the power conference most vulnerable during the next round of conference realignment.

Also:

• The USGA causes confusion at the U.S. Open by assessing Dustin Johnson a one-stroke penalty at the end of his final round.
• Both the NFL and the Giants appear clueless in their handling of Josh Brown’s domestic-violence case.
• CBS drags out March Madness selection show for two hours, gets scooped by leaked bracket.
• The CFP semifinals take a massive viewership hit on New Year’s Eve, forcing ESPN to deliver makegoods to advertisers.