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CLT fans rank high in the Sports Misery Index, but it’s not a good thing

Charlotte FC’s wins give Charlotte sports a boost for the AI-generated index, saying little about the Panthers and Hornets’ upcoming seasons.

An animation of a red whistle with a sad face next to an "86" misery rating.

Out of 100, our score could stand to improve.

Screenshot via ESPN

Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days, especially in the sports world. And now we have a new system that can tally and rate how good, or how bad, you have it as a sports fan. Meet ESPN’s Sports Misery Index.

Naturally, we tested what it would be like to be an average CLT fan by plugging in the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte Hornets, and Charlotte FC.

“Things are looking pretty grim. I’d offer to buy you a cold beverage, but I’m just a robot in your computer,” said the MiseryBot.

Fair. It’s been rough as a Panthers fan these past few years, as the team hasn’t made the playoffs since 2017 — the second-longest drought of any team in the NFL. Last season, the Panthers went 5-12, and during the recent preseason, they were winless. We’ll see what happens on Sunday, Sept. 4.

The Charlotte Hornets will start the upcoming season after having made franchise history by clinching the NBA Summer League championship. Meanwhile, Charlotte FC has had a solid season so far + made it to Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs.

Editor’s note: The Charlotte Checkers (AHL) and Carolina Ascent FC (Gainsbridge Super League) were not available for the index.

If you love other teams, plug them into the system and let us know your score, especially if you beat ours.

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