WNBA Sees Surge in Ratings and Attendance in 2024
- The WNBA achieved an average of 657,000 viewers per game in the 2024 season, the highest in 24 years.
- Record attendance and a 500% increase in merchandise sales were reported, driven by star players and heightened media coverage.
- The league's growth led to a new media rights agreement worth $200 million annually, indicating a promising future for women's professional basketball.
In 2024, the WNBA experienced significant growth in viewership, attendance, and merchandise sales, particularly driven by the popularity of players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The regular season saw an average of 657,000 viewers per game, marking the highest ratings in 24 seasons. Notably, games featuring the Indiana Fever, led by Clark, attracted an average of 1.18 million viewers, with a record 22 games surpassing one million viewers. The most-watched game occurred on June 23, 2024, between the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky, drawing 2.35 million viewers. Attendance records were also shattered, with Indiana's regular season finale attracting 20,711 spectators. Merchandise sales surged by 500%, with player jerseys and t-shirts seeing a remarkable increase of 1,000%. This growth in popularity has been bolstered by increased media coverage and social media engagement, leading to a new media rights agreement worth $200 million annually with Disney, NBC, and Amazon Prime, set to begin in 2026. The WNBA's expansion plans include adding four new franchises, with a goal of reaching a 16th franchise by 2028. The league's advertising revenue has skyrocketed, with a reported increase of 641% since 2022. This momentum reflects a broader trend of growing interest in women's sports, driven by high-profile athletes and competitive games. Overall, the WNBA's success in 2024 highlights a transformative period for women's professional basketball, showcasing its potential for future growth and sustainability.