When there is a game on, it seems to get really crowded in there. But, give it a shot. You may want to get there earlier than you would have wanted in order to get in line...if there is a line.
As for the walk from MGM..it's a very nice walk...about 20 mins tops. When you leave MGM, stay over to the left, with the canal on your immediate left. Follow the sidewalk, it will go down a slope, towards the canal. Then, just follow the sidewalk. BW will be on your right side, with the Swan and Dolphin to the left. You can cut through the pool area at BW, then go underneath the archway towards the village green area, then head to the right down the boardwalk. ESPN Club is on the right, at the end of the boardwalk..can't miss it.