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.
After years of struggling to prove its viability, the WNBA was officially approved by the NBA Board of Governors in 1996.
The league has grown from 8 teams to 13 active teams and has announced expansion efforts to 5 new cities.
- In 2024, the WNBA set an all-time viewership record, its most-watched season in 21 years.
- In-person attendance increased by 48% from the 2023 season, marking the highest total attendance in 22 years.
The Las Vegas Aces were 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: Women's basketball gains popularity.