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.

More from CLTtoday
From Charlotte, NC’s type of government to the powers local leaders hold, and when elections take place, we’re getting a refresh on our local government.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
The locally-owned wellness studio offers a range of recovery services like IV drips, contrast therapy, and float therapy.
We’re asking our readers to submit their top questions about the Queen City and we’ll do our best to answer them in 2026.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Taking the train isn’t just for commuters — it’s also for leisure travel that’s growing in popularity.
The technology will be used in the newly renovated Spectrum Center and the upcoming Novant Health Performance Center.
Customshop’s Andres Kaifer and Alex Briges are putting the final touches on Emmy Lou’s, which will open on Friday, Dec. 19.
VRV Athletics helps users create lasting friendships over their shared love of activities.
Our readers have spoken — here are the best local spots our city has to offer, from the best coffee shop to the best apartment complex to the best dentist.