i dont know if its absolutely mandatory. you can prolly fill in a lot of blanks yourself on bcs or do some quick googling/youtubing for short summaries.

but its so much more enjoyable/meaningful if you witness the whole thing unfold. youll also appreciate how things/people develop on bcs into what they eventually are on bb.

i know its a lot to catch up on (plus the earlier seasons of bcs). but i think youd be robbed of the complete experience if you just jumped into bcs.