Economists have found that pro sports franchises and mega-events deliver little measurable long-term growth, mostly civic pride and visibility, not income. Women's leagues like the WNBA and startups like Unrivaled don't require massive public subsidies, yet they fit into existing urban fabric with smaller venues, streaming revenue and community engagement. For cities like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Seattle that already have walkable density, the question is whether these investments strengthen what already exists rather than remaking neighborhoods for a different audience. The article suggests that the traditional model of stadium-based development involves bundling arenas with mixed-use districts designed to extend economic impact beyond game day. However, it also highlights a tension in older, denser cities, especially in older areas.