Rising Costs Lead to Hard Choices for Loyal Sports Fans

Philadelphia — Aaron Selkow faced a difficult decision a few months before LeBron James decided to join the 76ers. He had to choose whether to renew his season tickets for a 59th consecutive year or end a cherished family tradition.

“I’ve been thinking about it forever,” Selkow, 56, shared with CBS News. “Those seats symbolize us. From my childhood sitting on my parents’ lap to attending games with my dad, the Sixers are more than just a basketball team to us.”

Don Selkow, Aaron’s father, began the family’s season ticket journey in 1968, purchasing two seats behind the visitor bench for $6.50 each. “It’s like watching a ballet,” Don remarked. “The players are right in front of us. We love the sport and cherish our time together.”

Over the years, the Selkows witnessed legends like George McGinnis, Julius Erving, Charles Barkley, and Allen Iverson. In 2026, ticket prices soared to over $600 per game.

Aaron explained, “It’s not just about the money. It didn’t align with common sense anymore. Our daughter is in college and heading to graduate school. We wanted to enjoy other experiences in life.”

After almost six decades, Aaron decided to move on, opting to express his feelings in a heartfelt letter to his father, published in the Philadelphia Inquirer. The letter resonated with sports fans across the region and beyond.

“It wasn’t just the Sixers. It was Eagles tickets or New York Giants tickets or Detroit Pistons tickets,” Aaron said. “The world has evolved, and prices are rising faster than inflation rates. Teams target those willing to pay the cost, and that’s their focus.”

From Family Experiences to Exclusive Offerings

The cost of attending live sports has increased 123% since 2000, according to the Consumer Price Index. This substantial rise cannot be blamed solely on inflation.

Initially, when the Selkows became season ticket holders, the 76ers played at the Spectrum, a modest arena similar to venues like the Boston Garden, Chicago Stadium, and Los Angeles’ Great Western Forum. In 1996, the 76ers relocated to the Xfinity Mobile Center, a larger arena with enhanced amenities.

Despite an increase in the number of seats, the availability of tickets for average fans declined. This trend extends across major sports nationwide.

The CBS News Data Team analyzed stadiums and arenas in major sports cities like Philadelphia. Findings revealed that, since 2000, new venues have reduced overall capacity by nearly 90,000 seats. Meanwhile, the percentage of seats reserved for clubs, boxes, and suites has escalated.

Buffalo’s new Highmark Stadium exemplifies this shift, with a current capacity of roughly 60,000, down 16% from Bills Stadium’s previous capacity of over 71,000. The stadium includes two suite levels, and the team has sold more than 3,600 club suite licenses for $65 million.

Similarly, Globe Life Field, the Texas Rangers’ new home, has reduced capacity by over 16% compared to The Ballpark at Arlington. The venue boasts more than 130 suites and over 3,000 club seats.

Renovations can also decrease seating capacity. Angels Stadium in Anaheim’s 1998 remodel cut 19,076 seats, while Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium reduced 10,692 in its 2015–16 renovation. Soldier Field in Chicago slashed 5,444 seats during its 2003 overhaul.

NFL stadium plans by franchises like the Bears, Kansas City Chiefs, and Philadelphia 76ers, among others, indicate an ongoing trend of revamped venues aiming for exclusivity.

“Everything Is Getting More Expensive”

Alongside soaring ticket prices, the cost of running a sports franchise has risen substantially, especially for those fielding winning teams.

Mike Vorkunov, a sports business writer, states that owners focus on revenue maximization through premium seating and exclusive services. “Everything is increasingly expensive,” he told CBS News. “Player costs are rising, along with expenses for coaches, general managers, and front office members. Even travel, scouting, research, development, and technology have become costly endeavors.”

Vorkunov disclosed that new franchise owners aim to significantly profit, having paid billions to acquire teams. “Sports were once seen as fun and could be operated with minor deficits. Now, franchise purchases require substantial investments, demanding profitability and careful financial management.”

He emphasized that loyal fans, such as the Selkows, remain crucial for business continuity. “Sports no longer feel unattainable, and it’s vital to appeal to returning customers who once formed the backbone of the industry.”

Although the Selkows may not occupy their seats, Aaron and Don will undoubtedly follow the 76ers’ progress toward their first championship since 1983. “Those who know us understand the connection between the Selkows and the Sixers,” Aaron said.