Women's Basketball on the Rise
The WNBA has come a long way since its inception in 1997, with a significant surge in viewership and attendance in recent years.
In 1996, the NBA Board of Governors approved the concept of a women's-only league, paving the way for the WNBA to begin competition on June 21, 1997.
Today, the WNBA boasts 13 active teams and has announced expansion efforts to five new cities, following a record-breaking 2024 season that saw its most-watched season in 21 years and a 48% increase in in-person attendance from the 2023 season.
The league's growth is a testament to the viability of women's sports as a business model, with the Las Vegas Aces being crowned the 2025 season champions, capping off the WNBA's 29th season.
Everyone watches women’s basketball, even men who belittle it
Author's summary: WNBA sees significant growth in viewership and attendance.