How to Pick an NFL or NBA Team to Root For

Picking a team is the best part of becoming a sports fan, and there’s no wrong way to do it. Some people inherit a team from their family. Others pick one after a single great game. Here are seven ways to choose, so you can find a team that feels like yours.

1. Start with where you live (or where you’re from)

The most common reason people root for a team is geography. Cheering for the local team means watch parties at nearby bars, coworkers to talk to on Monday, and a stadium you can actually visit. If you just moved somewhere new, adopting the local team is one of the fastest ways to feel at home.

But it’s also fine to keep the team from the place you grew up, or to pick a city you love visiting.

2. Decide: winner or underdog?

Some teams win a lot. Others have waited decades for a championship. Rooting for a powerhouse means more big wins and deep playoff runs. Rooting for an underdog means patience, but when they finally win, it’s unforgettable. Just ask anyone who followed the Knicks before their 2026 title.

Neither choice is better. It depends on whether you enjoy celebrating or the long, emotional build-up.

3. Old-school tradition or a fresh story?

Some franchises go back nearly 100 years and come with legends, old rivalries and famous moments to learn. Younger teams have less history, which means you can be part of writing the story from the start.

4. Pick a favorite player

Plenty of fans start by following one exciting player and end up loving the whole team. Watch highlights, find a player whose style you enjoy, and see which team they play for. Just remember that players change teams more often than teams change cities.

5. Think about the style of play

Every team has a personality. Some play tough defense and win close, low-scoring games. Others love fast offense, big plays and three-pointers. After watching a few games, you’ll notice which style makes you lean forward on the couch.

6. Yes, colors and vibe count

You’ll be wearing these colors for years, so it’s okay if they matter to you. The same goes for the city’s vibe: big and flashy, or small and loyal? Fun, quirky and loud, or serious and traditional?

7. Let fate decide

Can’t choose? Spin the wheel. Some of the most loyal fans picked their team by accident: a random game on TV, a gift jersey, or a friend’s suggestion.

A few unwritten rules

• Don’t switch teams just because they’re losing. Fans call that being a “bandwagon fan,” and it’s the one thing everyone teases you about.
• It’s fine to have one team in each league. An NFL team and an NBA team from different cities is completely normal.
• Learn the rival. Knowing who your team hates is half the fun.

Ready to choose?

Our quizzes ask six quick questions about what you enjoy and match you with a team, plus the rival you’ll learn to dislike.

• Find your NFL team
• Find your NBA team