Record-Shattering Start for WNBA’s 2024 Season
The 2024 WNBA season is off to a scorching start, shattering records left and right. Fans have been flocking to arenas like never before, with over 400,000 attendees in the first month alone–the highest in 26 years. More than half the games have been sellouts, a staggering 156% increase from last year, according to the WNBA.
As the league’s 28th season commenced on May 14, people showed their support not only by packing the stands but also by tuning in to watch on networks such as ABC, CBS, ESPN, ESPN2, ION, and NBA TV. Viewership nearly tripled, with 1.32 million average viewers, up from 462,000 last season.
Diverse Audiences Fueling WNBA’s Meteoric Rise
Colie Edison, Chief Growth Officer, shed light on the increasing support for the league:
“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 numbers prove the soaring engagement of the WNBA, with viewers showing support for the women’s league diversifying significantly. Tip-Off week resulted in a 124% increase in viewers under 35 years old and a 139% increase in viewership among young girls. Additionally, there was a hefty increase in viewership among Black and Hispanic supporters compared to last year.
Rookies and Social Media Driving Fandom
The rookies of the league are thought to have helped attract a larger audience, as previously noted by BLACK ENTERPRISE. Highlights of newcomers such as Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese and Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark have led to significant engagement on social media.
The WNBA mentioned that Los Angeles Sparks’ Cameron Brink and Las Vegas Aces’ Kate Martin were among other rookie players to receive a lot of attention on social media. Social media for the league has seen a 380% increase in video views during the first week compared to last season.
Merchandise Sales Soaring to New Heights
Revenue from jersey sales has skyrocketed as well. Clark, Reese, and Brink are in the top 5 for jersey sales within the first week of the WNBA.
Compared to last year, sales through the WNBA Store are up 756% versus the same period last year, already setting a single-season record. WNBA League pass subscriptions are up by 335% compared to the previous season.
