I think it’s conventional to think of athletics participation as a leveler, in which it is talent rather than social background or wealth that matters for success. That may be true of some sports, but not others – perhaps related to the type of equipment, training, and facilities needed. I think in so-called “major sports” like basketball and especially football resources do matter, including community spending on youth teams and leagues, even if those sports are often seen as socially and racially leveling because success if merit based and hard earned.