Mobile ESPN was a solution aimed for the hardcore sports fan. Buy their phone and sign up for their service and with their cheapest package, get 400 anytime minutes and unlimited nights & weekends for $39.99/month.

The biggest problem with Mobile ESPN is that most sports fans don't want to go through the hassle of switching carriers, and more importantly, switching phones, just to get the Mobile ESPN service. Furthermore, the $39.99/month for the cheapest package doesn't take you very far, as you only get 400 anytime minutes, you have to pay 10 cents per text message, you have to pay for your internet access, and the sports package that comes on the phone is only good for one month, after which you need to start paying $24.99/month!!

SportsAlert runs under the assumption that you want to get score updates on your phone at the frequency that you choose, thus it's unobtrusive and works on your terms. Also, it's only $20 per year for the premium package and free for the standard package, so you end up saving a lot.