This is spot on. I have lived in Tampa for several years and I've only come across a handful of people that grew up here. Area has expanded so much over the last 15 years that transplants outnumber locals more than 3 to 1. Drive around the neighborhoods and you will see flags from just about every NFL team. Economy doesn't help, but the ownership also sucks after buying the Machester soccer team...spending the lowest in the league when your franchise is worth in the top 10 (or 12 or something like that) is just pathetic.
The Rays is a whole different story. That stadium was built in just the dumbest place to ever put a team. Only within 30 miles of 16% of the population (according to a few news articles this past year). Even the 16% within that drive is mostly comprised of old folks (St. Pete is referred to as God's waiting room).
Its a shame because I actually like watching the Bucs games this year to scout the competition...especially when they play the clowns this week.