The authority and freedom to boast or brag of one's achievements that comes from having won a contest or succeeded in some way, especially against a close rival. The game matters little to either team's statistics, but it will ensure bragging rights for the rest of the year.

To boast about someone or something, perhaps to an excessive or unwarranted degree. I can't stand being around Marcus ever since his company became such a massive success. The guy just can't stop bragging about it! You're my daughter, and you have such good grades—of course I'm going to brag about you!