See billy watching ine Girmo<sp> they explain some of it. I am one that will listen and open to some what learn a new sport I am watching..
LOL side story:: I had a Aussie friend spend 2 hrs explaining on ventrillo, Cricket to me while I searched youtube video's on it.
But yes I liked the anncouners lol.. Specially the ironmans in hawaii (bob costas I think.. sorry its late) But he makes it personal and I find that intresting.
yes team sport got it just when it comes to the end you want to beat yoru team so doesnt it then not make it a team sport. 
Ya I was watching a tdf and a lead pack of 3-5 I forget well one decided he wasnt going to take lead in rotation as they do to save there energy (heard from announcer but sorta figured that out watching lol) SO the few of them waited till a hill climb and sprinted the heck outta that hill and totally left the slacker in teh dust. So yeah even if your not on same team you still help out your enemy (competitor lol) out because in turn it helps you out. I find that very appealing to the sport because what aother sport do you help the person your trying to beat win?? (ok nascar but it doesnt count as a sport its only right hand turns) lol... 
sorry for spelling gramr blah its late.
"It's not sexual harassment, I am just building up your tolerence"-Dumke