Michael Jordan’s “The Last Dance” became the most in-demand documentary worldwide only two weeks after its debut on ESPN and Netflix, averaging around 5.9 million viewers per episode.

The show’s buzz blew up social media and likely attracted many new subscribers.

Netflix’s Formula 1 docuseries “Drive to Survive” converted millions into F1 fans —  34% of viewers — and continues to drive engagement.

From fictional shows like Apple’s “Ted Lasso” to nonfiction series like Netflix’s “Last Chance U,”  production studios, sports properties, and SVODs are leveraging the power of sports to provide exciting original content.

But how did sports content proliferate so quickly and get so popular — and how did it become a core element of content strategy for SVODs?

Netflix and Disney — two of the most prominent SVOD players — are down over 50% and 40% YTD, respectively. 

As competition stiffens and veteran and new SVOD entrants fight for a piece of the pie and the highest number of eyeballs, companies are looking for better differentiation strategies.

Many streaming providers with deep pockets have made a significant push to bring live sports to their platforms — most notably, Amazon Prime with the NFL and Apple with MLS and the MLB.

But since many SVODs can’t afford the TV rights for broadcasting live sports — mainly Tier 1 leagues — original sports content is the next-best alternative.

Moving forward, the SVODs who can afford rights to live sports will continue pushing for them, and those who cannot, will continue leveraging the value of original sports content to grow.

Want to learn more? Check out the full report here.

ICYMI: Check out the last report we published on the impact of FTX’s downfall on sports. You can access that and all our previous reports on Pro HQ.