The WNBA runs on a very different schedule compared to other basketball leagues. Starting in mid-May and usually ending in mid-October, it gives fans the opportunity to watch without any other sports interrupting.
Every TV channel projecting games saw over a 100 percent increase in viewership. Channels like ABC, CBS, ESPN and ION all saw massive improvements in numbers.
After the flood of excitement from the NCAAW basketball tournament, fans couldn’t wait to see the graduates use their skills in the WNBA. Stars like Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark were internet sensations after matching up in the March Madness championship game. Then, on Apr. 14, before last season began, the two stars were both selected in the top 10 picks. Clark went first to the Indiana Fever, while Reese went seventh to the Chicago Sky.
Many fans anticipated the first match between the two at the pro level, and on Aug. 30 the fans got their wish. With a high-scoring shootout, the Fever won 100-81, with Clark tallying 31 points. Meanwhile, Reese finished with 10 points and 11 rebounds. The live telecast of the event broke records, seeing up to 1.92 million viewers at its peak.
Miles Larson, a sophomore at Tualatin, expressed his love for the WNBA.
“More people should watch the WNBA because it’s similar to the NBA and takes place at a different time,” he said.
Many fans watch simply because they love the game of basketball. Having the WNBA take place at an odd time gives people the chance to watch both.
Larson also shared which players create the thrill of watching.
“I like Cameron Brink because she’s a local player from Mountainside, and I find it cool she’s from nearby. I also like Caitlin Clark because she reminds me of Lebron in a way that both players defied the odds of them being “overrated,” he said.
Brink tore her ACL shortly into the season and will hope to come back stronger next year. On a different note, another Oregon local had her way this season. Sabrina Ionescu, a former University of Oregon star, led the New York Liberty to their first championship ever. As local players become big names, our community can grow women’s basketball together.
With more exciting local information, Portland recently got a bid to add to the 12-team count. This will be added as an expansion team in 2026. Make sure to support the Portland WNBA team once they’re in action!
