WNBA Attendance Surges: Over 2.3M Fans Attend Games
The WNBA has seen a significant increase in attendance during the 2024 season, with over 2.3 million fans attending games throughout the year. This surge in attendance marks a 48% increase over the previous season, showcasing the growing popularity of the women’s basketball league.
One of the standout moments of the season was when the Indiana Fever and the Washington Mystics played in front of a sellout crowd of 20,711, setting a new WNBA attendance record. This historic game highlighted the excitement and energy surrounding the league, as fans came out in droves to support their favorite teams and players.
The impact of rookie sensation Caitlin Clark was a driving force behind the increased interest in the WNBA. Clark’s dynamic play on the court captured the attention of fans across the country, drawing in new viewers and boosting attendance numbers. The Indiana Fever, led by Clark, set a single-season home attendance record of 340,715 fans, surpassing the previous record set by the New York Liberty in 2001.
Record-Breaking Season
Throughout the 2024 season, the WNBA saw a total of 154 sellout games, a significant increase from the 45 sellouts in the previous year. This uptick in sellout games speaks to the growing enthusiasm and support for women’s basketball, as fans flocked to arenas to witness the excitement firsthand.
In addition to the record-setting game between the Fever and the Mystics, two other games drew crowds of over 20,000 fans. The Fever faced off against the Las Vegas Aces in front of 20,366 fans on July 2, and they played the Mystics again in front of 20,333 fans on June 7. These high attendance numbers demonstrate the widespread appeal of the WNBA and the strong fan base that continues to grow year after year.
Television Ratings and Viewership
In addition to the increased attendance at games, the WNBA also saw a boost in television ratings during the 2024 season. A record 22 regular-season telecasts averaged at least 1 million viewers, showcasing the league’s expanding reach and popularity among viewers at home.
The combination of exciting gameplay, talented athletes, and compelling storylines has helped draw in new fans and keep existing ones engaged throughout the season. With more eyes on the league than ever before, the WNBA is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.
Overall, the 2024 WNBA season was a resounding success, with record-breaking attendance numbers, sellout games, and television ratings. The league’s continued growth and popularity are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff who make the WNBA such a vibrant and exciting league to follow. As the league looks ahead to future seasons, there is no doubt that the WNBA will continue to captivate fans and inspire the next generation of basketball players and fans alike.
