Sue Bird, a former WNBA player, envisions herself in her 50s and 60s as a Charles Barkley-like figure, reminiscing about her playing days and offering opinions on television. She retired after 20 years in the league in 2022 but remains connected to the sport as an owner of the Seattle Storm. The WNBA has experienced significant growth since her retirement, with changes happening at a rapid pace as the 28th regular season begins. Viewership numbers have soared, with the recent draft garnering record-breaking numbers and a preseason exhibition attracting over 500,000 viewers. The link between the college and professional games has strengthened, leading to increased attendance and viewership.
The WNBA has announced plans to add charter flights for teams on a full-time basis, providing a safer and more efficient mode of travel for players. The introduction of charter flights signals a commitment to improving player experiences and protecting their privacy as the league continues to grow. Teams are also taking additional security measures, with some organizations traveling with security personnel on commercial flights and beefing up security at practices. New facilities, such as the Seattle Storm’s performance center and the upcoming Mercury’s facility, provide players with state-of-the-art amenities and further enhance their experiences as professional athletes.
Top players like Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Kahleah Copper, and Natasha Cloud have signed with teams, boosting the level of competition and star power in the league. The Las Vegas Aces, coming off back-to-back championships, will look to secure a third title this summer. Star player A’ja Wilson recently received her own signature sneaker and clothing collection, becoming one of the few WNBA players with a signature shoe. WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert is optimistic about the league’s future, citing a doubling of revenue since 2019 and significant investment from corporate and media partnerships.
Expansion into new markets is on the horizon, with a 13th franchise set to debut in the Bay Area in 2025 and a 14th team in Toronto in 2026. The WNBA’s growth and positive momentum have led to a transformational moment in women’s sports, with the league poised for continued success in the coming years. Sue Bird, who sees the sport crossing a cultural cachet line, feels the added buzz and excitement surrounding the WNBA. As the league continues to evolve and thrive, Bird may find herself sharing back-in-my-day tales sooner than she expects, reflecting on the old days of women’s basketball and the strides made in the sport.
