Sports Matters

As an integral part of the network's digital-first programming strategy, Sports Matters was a web-exclusive series broadcast by Shift, MSNBC's online streaming platform in 2015.

Sports Matters was a dynamic web series aiming to ignite conversations about critical and topical issues in the world of sports. It was a digital talk show that took a deep dive into sports-related topics while integrating the serious themes of politics, economy, social justice, and culture that are ever-present in the sports world. Being hosted on Shift by MSNBC engrained the show with a journalistic approach and left-leaning perspective, capturing the platform's commitment to incorporating news and analysis in storytelling. It was particularly singular in its focus; rather than centering purely on scores, stats, and matches' thrill, it emphasized social and larger contextual narratives revolving around sports.

Each episode of Sports Matters dissected a specific topic that blended sports with broader social issues. The show picked up stories that came directly from the sporting world but had profound implications extending well beyond the game. Whether it was discussing racial issues, athlete activism, concussion protocols, drug use, or gender inequality, the show always intended to spark a more profound discussion beyond the surface-level analysis of many conventional sports shows. It posed hard-hitting questions and did not shy away from the controversial elements of sports while maintaining a huge respect for the games and players involved.

The primary driving force behind Sports Matters was its charismatic presenter, Rob Simmelkjaer. A former ESPN executive, Rob demonstrated an impeccable blend of journalistic prowess and a genuine passion for sports. His well-researched interrogative style led to insightful discussions. He enthusiastically dug into each topic, ensuring that the issues were not only thoroughly examined from multiple angles but also made accessible even for those who were not necessarily sports enthusiasts.

Guest appearances on Sports Matters were also a significant feature that set it apart from other sports-oriented programming. The show's use of special guests was not confined to sports figures only. Instead, it also brought in voices from different walks of life, including authors, activists, academics, politicians, and even fans, who were invited to contribute to the nuanced understanding of each episode's key subject.

In terms of presentation, the shewing away from the traditional 'roundtable' format gave Sports Matters a fresh and engaging stance. It adopted a more casual and conversational style, which was combined with a generous use of multimedia content, such as clips and graphics, making it both visually engaging and informative for viewers.

Undoubtedly, Sports Matters was in alignment with the broader mission of Shift by MSNBC. Just as Shift aimed to deliver innovative online programming that explored American issues in depth, Sports Matters followed suit by pushing the boundaries of what a sports series could be. It presented sports issues in a more significant context behind the simple games, showing viewers how these games are intertwined with culture, society, and politics.

While the series firmly catered to sports fans, its impact and reach extended beyond that demographic. As it tactfully presented deeper issues of society and culture, Sports Matters resonated with audiences who were not necessarily sports enthusiasts but were interested in understanding the intersectionality of sports with societal issues. It offered an alternative viewpoint for experiencing and appreciating sports - not just as thrilling games but as mirrors to society's deeper realities.

Sports Matters, indeed, was a show where sports mattered not only for the triumphs and defeats but for what they reflected about our world too. It was a one-of-a-kind program that examined the world of sports from all angles, revealing the undercurrents and offering a comprehensive report that appealed to a broad demographic of viewers.