Sports Conversation Starters for Your Workweek

I recently saw a couple posts about research from 2021 about cursing and the level of authenticity it adds in an interaction. I love that it’s being circulated again! As someone who curses on occasion, despite strong repercussions for that as a kid (and something I won’t do in front of my parents to this day), I appreciate the research. And I also know that every interaction is an opportunity to be authentic. You just have to make the decision and possibly be more strategic with small talk.

Maybe you give a real and authentic answer to the question “How are you?” or maybe you follow the standard script. Either way there’s a chance to use that short exchange – and every small talk interaction – to your advantage by revealing your personal brand and setting up follow up opportunities.

If you can’t think of a way to get started in those conversations, these sports topics could help.

NFL

The New York Jets lost to Denver in a game played in London. The Jets are the only winless team in the NFL.

The NFL trade deadline is November 4 and this could be the most active trade deadline in the last few years. There has been an average of 15 trades per season over the last six years. Three were completed last week

NCAA

We're halfway through the college football season which means the College Football Playoff rankings are just around the corner. Weekly rankings start November 4. Meanwhile No. 7 Indiana stays undefeated after handing No. 3 Oregon it's first loss and a week after dropping out of the Top 25, Texas earned a statement win over No. 6 Oklahoma and re-entered the poll at No. 21

MLB

The league championship series are set. In the National League the LA Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers square off for a chance to play in the World Series. In the American League the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays. The Mariners are the only team in MLB history that has never appeared in the World Series. 

Of the four teams remaining, the Dodgers have the most playoff experience and titles with 8, including last season. 

WNBA Playoffs

The Las Vegas Aces swept the Phoenix Mercury and claimed their third WNBA Championship in four seasons. There are only three teams in WNBA history that have won more championships than Vegas. 

NBA

The NBA season starts next week. LeBron James is set to play in a record-setting 23rd season, but he won't be on the court due to sciatica. The NBA's all-time leading scorer is expected to be re-evaluated in 3-4 weeks.