The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, United States
This study investigates the impact of team similarity and pay disparities on team coordination in the context of competitive sports. By leveraging Social Comparison Theory and Tournament Theory, and utilizing hierarchical linear modeling, our research reveals that heightened team similarity and significant pay gaps detrimentally affect team coordination. Notably, these effects are nuanced by team ranking and the integration of high-performing newcomers. The presence of star players exacerbates the negative influence of team similarity on coordination, while the detrimental impact of pay disparities is more pronounced in higher-ranked teams. This research underscores the complex interplay between individual and collective goals in competitive environments, highlighting the importance of equitable pay structures and strategic team composition management. Our results provide valuable insights for sports managers and organizational leaders, suggesting that fostering cohesive and effective teams requires careful consideration of skill distribution and compensation strategies, especially in high-stakes contexts.
