The WNBA is More Than a Trend: It's a Movement

The WNBA and other women's sports leagues are experiencing a surge in popularity, attracting new fans and brand partnerships. They're not just a trend, they're a powerful force in the sports business.

• According to Jessica Berman, commissioner of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), the rise in women's sports is not a fleeting moment, but rather a lasting shift in the landscape. She points to the increased media coverage, from 5% to 15% now, as proof of this trend.
• These leagues are actively sharing best practices to collectively grow their share of the market, moving away from competing over a small slice of the pie.

Brand Partnerships Fueling WNBA Growth

Brands are increasingly recognizing the value of investing in women's sports, especially those who are early adopters.

• Companies like Google, Ally Bank, and AT&T are leading the way in sponsoring these leagues and female athletes, understanding the unique and engaged fan base.
• Sara Gotfredson, founder of Trailblazing Sports Group, emphasizes that fans of women's sports are different. They're more engaged with brands and create valuable partnerships.

WNBA Players' Impact Beyond the Court

WNBA athletes are not only excelling on the court, but also building successful careers off the court. They're using their platform to advocate for change and inspire others.

• Cameron Brink, a forward on the Los Angeles Sparks, has secured endorsements from brands like New Balance, Urban Decay, and Legal Zoom, demonstrating the growing influence of WNBA players.
• Brink believes that success on the court translates to success off the court, highlighting the value of building a brand through athletic achievements.

Boosting WNBA Accessibility for Fans

Both athletes and experts agree that making WNBA games more accessible to fans is crucial for continued growth.

• Brink highlights the need for more convenient ways for fans to watch games, emphasizing that current barriers make it challenging for viewers to follow the league.
• Gotfredson advocates for wider coverage on linear television, podcasts, YouTube shows, and other media platforms to expand the WNBA's reach.

WNBA's Future: Catching Up in a Short Time

Despite the positive momentum, the WNBA and other women's leagues face the challenge of catching up to the established history and infrastructure of men's sports.

• Berman acknowledges that the NWSL, being only 13 years old, has a long way to go to match the decades of experience in men's leagues.
• The growth of women's sports is a testament to their resilience and commitment to achieving parity. Despite the challenges, they're making significant strides in a relatively short time.

Building a Future for WNBA and Women's Sports

The future of the WNBA and women's sports looks bright. As more fans, brands, and media outlets embrace the value of these leagues, their growth will continue.

• Increased investment in marketing, media coverage, and athlete development will further strengthen the foundation for the future of WNBA and women's sports.
• The ongoing conversation about gender equality and equal opportunity in sports will create a more equitable landscape for female athletes.