The 2025 WNBA Draft on ESPN saw a significant increase in viewership, averaging 1.25 million viewers, the second-most of any draft in WNBA history. The program was also the most-viewed across all television among males 18-49 and adults 18-34. This milestone marks a substantial growth in women’s basketball popularity over recent years.
A strong showing from top prospects like Paige Bueckers, Hailey Van Lith, and Kiki Iriafen drew in massive audiences. The league’s efforts to engage fans through social media and the introduction of general admission tickets have contributed to this surge. Fans can now purchase tickets for $99, double the price from last year.
Notably, women’s basketball has become increasingly popular over the past few years, with viewership numbers rivaling those of major sports like baseball and hockey. The 2025 NCAA tournament and national championship game also broke records, further emphasizing the sport’s growth.
The rise in viewership is a testament to the success of talented players like Caitlin Clark, who has already demonstrated her ability to draw massive audiences. Her popularity has been instrumental in boosting women’s basketball ratings. With an impressive lineup of young players expected to join the WNBA, this trend is likely to continue.
Overall, the 2025 WNBA Draft showcases a cultural shift towards recognizing and celebrating women’s sports. As the league continues to grow, it will be exciting to see how viewership numbers evolve in the years to come.
Source: https://www.sbnation.com/wnba/2025/4/18/24410852/wnba-draft-viewership-numbers-tv-ratings-paige-bueckers