The 2024 season of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) marked a groundbreaking year, characterized by a surge in viewership and attendance that reshaped perceptions of women’s sports. According to the statistics released by the WNBA, over 54 million unique viewers tuned in, marking a historic apex for the league. Various networks, such as Disney’s ABC, ESPN, CBS, and NBA TV, played a pivotal role in broadcasting games, allowing fans across the nation to engage with their favorite teams and players. Additionally, the league experienced a remarkable uptick in attendance, reaching levels not seen in 22 years. This growth rate, close to 50% compared to the previous season, illustrates a growing passion for women’s basketball, notably propelled by the performances of emerging stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
At the core of this rising popularity were standout talents such as Caitlin Clark from the Indiana Fever and Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky. Their remarkable performances not only captivated the audience but fundamentally transformed the way fans perceive women’s basketball. For instance, the Fever recorded an astounding fourfold increase in attendance, highlighting the magnetic pull of Clark’s skills on the court. In stark contrast, other teams, including the Los Angeles Sparks, experienced significant but less dramatic gains—69% in their attendance figures. This contrast underscores the influential role that marquee players play in driving fan engagement and stadium sales.
Record Sellouts and a Lucrative Future
The 2024 season showcased a total of 154 sellout games, a staggering increase from merely 45 in the preceding year. This exceptional rise in sellouts underscores the palpable excitement surrounding the league; fans are not just watching from home but are eager to support their teams in person. It is no wonder that this surge has attracted new media partnerships and lucrative agreements—the WNBA is entering an expansion phase, with plans to add a 15th team in Portland by the 2026 season. This future growth potential bodes well for the league’s sustainability and relevance in the sports industry.
A significant dynamic in the WNBA’s ascendancy has been the negotiation of an impressive $2.2 billion media rights contract that spans 11 seasons. The media rights were secured as part of a broader $77 billion agreement with the NBA, which was aimed at elevating the fiscal prospects of women’s teams. These deals reflect a growing recognition of the WNBA’s marketability and the enthusiasm surrounding women’s sports. Furthermore, during the 2024 season, 22 games averaged over a million viewers, breaking numerous records for viewership on ESPN and CBS Sports alike.
While the leap in viewership and attendance brings many positives, it is imperative to acknowledge the darker side of this growth—online harassment and racism. Many players have reported experiencing a rise in hostility as the WNBA garners more attention. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert faced scrutiny earlier this month for her response to players’ concerns. Initially, she did not explicitly denounce the vitriol. However, she later clarified her strong stance against “hate or racism,” recognizing it as an ongoing issue that plagues not only the league but women in the public eye. Addressing such social issues responsibly is crucial for the league to garner enhanced respect and continue its trajectory of growth.
The 2024 season of the WNBA stands as a testament to the league’s transformative potential. The swelling viewership among diverse audiences signals a shift in women’s sports, characterized by growing investment, robust attendance, and increased visibility. With innovative emerging talent, a strategic focus on engagement and social responsibility, the WNBA is forging a promising path forward. As the league continues to capture the hearts and minds of fans, it has laid the groundwork for an exciting future that not only celebrates athletic prowess but also promotes equity and respect in sports. The WNBA has decidedly entrenched itself as a formidable player in the world of sports, deserving of recognition and respect in its own right.