Inadequate building space is a thing we have all encountered and planning the city is necessary. Also, it's a money maker when you want a new building that just came out and will get left behind without it (sports shop)
I have read that from a lot. I felt that getting all lvl 3 gear was a marked improvement from no sports shop. I just got mine this season and it re-leveled the field. I think everyone adding it made it seem to not be a big deal, but playing without it hurts.