There are numerous states across the United States that do not host a franchise in the traditional "Big Four" major professional sports leagues (NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL). Approximately 24 states—including states like Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, Delaware, Alaska, Hawaii, Montana, Idaho, and North and South Dakota—lack a major league professional sports team. Residents in these regions typically align their fandom with major teams from neighboring metropolitan areas or focus heavily on collegiate athletics.