Women's basketball has long been overshadowed by its male counterpart, but this year, it's breaking through the barriers and claiming the spotlight it deserves. During this college basketball season, March Madness, and the WNBA Draft, women's basketball is reaching new heights, with ratings and engagement soaring to all-time highs. Stars like Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, and Cameron Brink headline a bevy of young stars leading the charge, and the future looks bright for the sport.
The recent national championship game between Iowa and South Carolina shattered records as the most-watched women’s college basketball game ever. With an average of nearly 19 million viewers and peaking at over 24.1 million in the final 15 minutes, the game was the second-most watched women's non-Olympic sporting event ever, behind the 2015 Women's World Cup Final (ESPN). In the WNBA’s first ticketed draft since 2016, the star-studded event in New York City sold out in the first 15 minutes of releasing its tickets. Women's basketball is capturing audiences' attention like never before.
This season, ESPN's extensive coverage of women's basketball has also contributed to its growing popularity. With top-notch coverage throughout the NCAA Tournament and WNBA Draft, ESPN went all-in, providing fans with exceptional studio segments and telecasts, highlighted by emerging analysts Andraya Carter and Chiney Ogwumike and stellar color commentary by Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi. This increased exposure has helped elevate the profile of women's basketball and attract a broader audience.
Leaders like legendary player and South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley are significantly impacting off the court. Staley's poised response to a sensitive question about transgender athletes during a press conference at the women’s Final Four showcased her grace under pressure. Her commitment to inclusivity and respect for all athletes is inspiring and reflects the values of the sport.
As women's basketball continues to gain momentum, it's not just about the games—it's about breaking barriers and championing equality. With each game, each player, and each moment, women's basketball is reshaping the landscape of sports and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
Two pillars of women’s basketball, Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi, welcome reigning 2-time WNBA champion Kelsey Plum (pictured left) during their ESPN telecast of the 2024 Women’s National Championship Game. Photo Credit: WNBA
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