Part 7/10:
The core of the problem is corporate greed. ESPN's relentless pursuit of revenue through expensive carriage fees and fee hikes has alienated the very fans who built the network's success. ESPN's timing—asking YouTube TV for a big fee increase after the platform had already raised prices—demonstrates a lack of strategic thinking that risks long-term damage. This haggling at the expense of loyal viewers has led to increased resentment and a willingness among fans to find alternative ways to watch games, whether through illegal streams, bars, or other services.