Sports were invented so men could develop their war skills, but also have an opportunity to hug and kiss each other with public acclaim. They could practise leadership, cooperation, strategy, planning, disappointment, and bouncing up and down crying when their bestie scored a goal. Win win in terms of emotional intelligence. It must have been even better in the first Olympics, when they all competed naked.
As for supporting a team, why not Jamesy? Most people who are diehard fans of a specific franchise have studied the team's stats for years and they want their own predictions to come true. Most of these people have money riding on games whether they're in a fantasy league, they're hard-core gamblers, or they make bets with their friends. Once you know the history of a team you develop empathy for that club even if the players or managers change over time.
I agree it's "pointless" since I don't gamble or follow stats but I love a good sporting match, especially when the dudes get to jump around sobbing and embracing their mates.
*Yes I know there are women's teams too, but men are way cuter imo.
_________________
I never give you my number, I only give you my situation.
Beatles