http://dailycaller.com/2016/10/04/espn-radio-station-cancels-ecu-coverage-following-national-anthem-protest/
It's only radio, but it is ESPN which is the sugar daddy of college sports. If it spills over into television then it becomes serious spoiled lettuce. Potential loss of attendance is another factor.
Sports is an escape from this stuff for most people. When the drudgery of life creeps into sports it turns off a lot of people and they find another avenue for fun.