National Basketball Association

49ers being competitive could help Warriors

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

The San Francisco 49ers being competitive this season could be a good thing for the Golden State Warriors.

Through two games, the San Francisco 49ers are tied for first place in the NFC West. While their lone win came over a strange Los Angeles Rams team, the 49ers have to be pleased with their performance through two games under Chip Kelly. The team came into the season with low expectations and to play competitive football through two games goes a long way.

It could also have an added benefit for the Golden State Warriors. While the Warriors will be the most hyped team in history coming into the regular season, having the 49ers be competitive can be good for them. First, it keeps tuned into the 49ers for as long as possible. Basketball season begins in October, but it doesn’t take over the airwaves until around Christmas and then when the NFL season is over.

Now, the 49ers have only played two games and could still be the same miserable team they were last year. If they can remain in the hunt until October or November, then it gives the Warriors a little leeway in the town and they don’t have to worry about being the only focus. The San Jose Sharks should help in that regard and so can the San Francisco Giants if they make the playoffs.

As has been evidenced in the bay area, when teams are competitive it raises the play of the other teams in the area. It’s a city rich with sports history and winning is an absolute must. While the Warriors will dominate the discussion outside the bay area, if the 49ers can get a little shine locally it can be great for both teams involved.

The Warriors are going to get their spotlight and run with it until they bring home the NBA Championship or ultimately fall. They don’t however need to take that spotlight too early. They just need to find a rhythm and pick up wins and hope the 49ers are stringing wins together too. It’s good to let the little guy get some shine every now and then.