South Carolina’s victory over Iowa in the women’s NCAA championship game marked a significant milestone as it outdrew the men’s title game for the first time. The game averaged 18.9 million viewers, making it the second most-watched non-Olympic women’s sporting event on U.S. television. The audience peaked at 24.1 million during the final 15 minutes of the game. This growth in viewership is seen as a reflection of the higher quality of the women’s game in recent years.
A key factor contributing to the increased viewership of women’s basketball is the presence of standout players like Caitlin Clark, who attracted large audiences during the NCAA Tournament. Iowa’s games consistently drew high numbers, with audiences of 14.2 million and 12.3 million for their victories over UConn and LSU, respectively. As Clark transitions to the WNBA, questions arise regarding whether the college game can sustain this level of interest. Nonetheless, the presence of promising freshmen players bodes well for the future of women’s basketball.
The exposure of women’s basketball has been further enhanced by increased coverage on network television during the regular season, with Fox, NBC, CBS, and ABC all broadcasting games. This expanded visibility has helped generate interest in the sport beyond the NCAA Tournament. Furthermore, the return of the championship game to network television has had a positive impact on viewership, showcasing the competitiveness and excitement of women’s college basketball.
The growth and potential of women’s basketball are evident in the progress made over the past few years in terms of the speed, competitiveness, and overall quality of the game. The tournament’s increased viewership and exposure signal a trend towards greater recognition and appreciation for women’s sports in general, not just basketball. This shift is expected to continue as more attention and resources are devoted to promoting women’s athletics and celebrating the achievements of female athletes.
While Caitlin Clark’s star power undoubtedly played a major role in attracting viewers to women’s college basketball, there is recognition that the sport features a wealth of talent and exciting players beyond a single individual. Coaches and experts emphasize the need to tell the stories of these athletes and showcase their abilities to further grow the game. The success of this year’s tournament, with its compelling matchups and narratives, sets the stage for continued growth and engagement with women’s basketball in the future.
Looking ahead, the women’s game is poised for further advancements in ratings and exposure, building on the momentum generated by this year’s NCAA Tournament. Networks and sports channels have proven their ability to deliver audiences for women’s basketball, and there is optimism that continued efforts to promote the sport will yield positive results. As the sport evolves and gains broader appeal, the focus remains on highlighting the exceptional talent and competitiveness within women’s college basketball.
