While the NBA is seeing a huge decline in its viewership, the WNBA, on the other hand, is experiencing a surge in viewership. Once overlooked, the league is now breaking records, drawing major media attention, with more fans tuning in than ever before. In the first month of the 2024 WNBA season, the league drew its highest attendance since 1998. WNBA viewership soared to 1.32 million across major networks, nearly triple the 2023 season’s average. Arenas were at 94% capacity, with merchandise sales up 236%.
In an interview with ESPN, WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison discussed the league’s rapid rise and said, “What’s happening now in women’s basketball is confirmation of what we’ve always known. The demand is there, and women’s sports is a valuable investment. We’re encouraged by growing engagement across all our verticals, especially as we welcome new and diverse audiences into our fandom. The WNBA continues to experience sustained growth as our league embraces this heightened momentum.”
But what’s behind this surge in viewership? Today, we will break down the biggest factors driving the WNBA’s growing success.
The Caitlin Clark & Angel Reese effect
Rivals since their college days, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese entered the league in the 2024 draft. Their heated rivalry at the NCAA level captured national attention, turning their WNBA matchups into must-watch events, where they continue to stay rivals. Since joining the league, Clark has ranked as the 12th favorite overall athlete among Americans, a remarkable feat considering the list is usually dominated by veteran and retired superstars from major men’s leagues. Reese also made history by securing a spot in the top 25, making them the two most popular women’s basketball players ever tracked by Sports Poll.
Clark and Reese’s influence is elevating the WNBA and paving the way for future stars like Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins, who are poised to join the league this year. Their arrival marks a cultural shift, proving that women’s basketball is no longer an afterthought but a major draw for sports fans nationwide.
Increased media coverage & accessibility
One of the biggest factors driving the WNBA’s growth is the surge in media coverage and improved accessibility for fans. Major networks like ABC, ESPN, CBS, and NBA TV have significantly increased their broadcast commitments, bringing WNBA games to a broader audience. Streaming services and digital platforms have also played a crucial role in making WNBA content easier to access.
Read More: Why Is the NBA Viewership Declining?
With games available on popular platforms and highlight clips circulating on social media, fans can engage with the league anytime, anywhere. This expanded digital footprint has introduced the WNBA to new audiences while keeping existing fans connected.
Cultural & Social Impact
The WNBA has become more than just basketball, it’s a movement. Players are using their platform and fan-following to advocate for social justice, gender equality, and community-driven initiatives.
WNBA players also actively engage in their communities—organizing youth programs, advocating for educational equity, and using their platforms to uplift marginalized voices. This cultural relevance has expanded the league’s reach, drawing in a diverse and engaged audience who see the WNBA as a force for positive change.
Investment & expansion
With the new stars and rising viewership, the league has increased investment in marketing and branding. Just a few weeks ago, Clark-led-Indiana Fever announced plans to build a sports performance center worth $78 million. Which will be completed before the start of the 2027 WNBA season.
The league also expanded by adding the Golden State Valkyries, strengthening its foundation and positioning itself for long-term success.
If this momentum continues, the league could soon reach new heights, potentially surpassing its NBA counterpart.
Ojus, the founder of Swish and Slams, brings over 12 years of experience as a basketball player to the table. His love for the game and his passion for sharing knowledge led him to create this platform.
With Swish and Slams, He aims to provide fans with a trusted and informative source of basketball news. His expertise and dedication ensure that the content delivered is accurate, engaging, and relevant to the basketball community.
