WNBA TV ratings 2025 are breaking records thanks to stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. See what’s fueling the league’s massive audience growth.
WNBA TV ratings 2025 are smashing records — and the reason is crystal clear: Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and a new wave of talent are drawing in more viewers than ever. From college courts to pro arenas, these rookies haven’t just joined the league — they’ve transformed it.
With networks like ESPN, ABC, and Amazon Prime broadcasting games to millions and social media fueling fan engagement, the WNBA is experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity. But just how big are the numbers? And what does this mean for women’s basketball 2025 and beyond?
Let’s break down the numbers, the faces behind the viewership spike, and what’s next for the league.
WNBA Viewership Hits Record Highs in 2025
The 2025 season opened with a bang — and record-shattering viewership.
Key TV Ratings Stats (2025 so far):
-
Indiana Fever vs. Chicago Sky (Clark vs. Reese):
3.25 million viewers — the most-watched WNBA regular season game ever -
Season opener on ABC:
2.1 million viewers, up 142% from 2024 -
Average viewership across national games:
1.4 million, up from 540K in 2023
This isn’t just a bump — it’s a full-on breakout for the league.
Caitlin Clark: The Ratings Magnet
There’s no denying it: Caitlin Clark is the engine behind this surge.
- Every Fever game she’s played in 2025 has aired on national TV.
- She ranks top 5 in scoring and assists among all players.
- Clark’s debut was the most-watched WNBA game since 1999.
Off the court, she’s become the face of brands like State Farm, Nike, and Gatorade. Her viral highlights, no-look passes, and deep threes regularly light up TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
“She’s appointment viewing — fans are showing up in person and online,” said ESPN analyst Andraya Carter.
Angel Reese: Dominating on and off the Court
While Clark is lighting it up from deep, Angel Reese is owning the paint — and pulling in serious attention.
- Reese has led the league in offensive rebounds for most of the season.
- Her games average 1.7 million viewers.
- Reese’s fashion, interviews, and fierce play have built a crossover brand that fans love.
She’s partnered with Reebok, landed a docuseries deal with Amazon, and regularly trends on X (formerly Twitter) after her games.
The Rookie Effect: Gen Z Is Watching
This rookie class might be the most marketable in WNBA history. Why?
- They’re already famous. Clark, Reese, and Kamilla Cardoso built huge college followings.
- They’re young and relatable, especially to Gen Z viewers on platforms like TikTok.
- They’re competitive and authentic, and fans are here for it.
Viewership by Age Group (2025):
| Age Group | 2023 Viewership % | 2025 Viewership % |
|---|---|---|
| 18–24 (Gen Z) | 8% | 23% |
| 25–34 | 17% | 29% |
| 35–49 | 41% | 32% |
| 50+ | 34% | 16% |
Younger fans are finally locked in — and that’s good news for the future of the league.
Where You Can Watch WNBA Games in 2025
Fans now have more ways than ever to tune in:
- ABC & ESPN: Weekly national games
- Amazon Prime Video: Exclusive Friday night broadcasts
- WNBA League Pass: Stream every game live or on demand
- CBS Sports Network & ION: Additional weekend coverage
Check the official WNBA schedule for local listings.
Social Media Driving Massive Engagement
TV is just part of the story. WNBA news and highlights are going viral daily across platforms:
- #WNBA has over 3 billion views on TikTok in 2025.
- Caitlin Clark’s no-look assist vs. New York hit 25M views in one day.
- Angel Reese’s postgame quotes often trend in real-time on Twitter/X.
This digital engagement is converting into real TV viewers — a rare feat in today’s media world.
Sponsors and Advertisers Are All In
Brands are seeing the numbers and jumping in:
- Google, State Farm, Nike, and AT&T have doubled down on WNBA partnerships.
- Players like Clark, Reese, and A’ja Wilson are appearing in national ad campaigns.
- Broadcast sponsors have increased, and ad slots during WNBA games are selling out faster than ever.
This isn’t just a sports story — it’s a business boom.
TV Ratings Boost = Bigger Paychecks?
Absolutely. More eyes mean more dollars, and the players are finally starting to benefit:
- The 2025 salary cap rose by 10% over 2024.
- Expect even bigger contracts in the next CBA.
- Players are landing six- and seven-figure endorsement deals alongside their WNBA income.
With WNBA supermax contracts becoming more common (see our article on that!), stars are starting to see a payday worthy of their talent and impact.
Fan Reactions: “This Is the Golden Era”
From Reddit to real-life barbershop debates, fans are feeling the shift.
- “I used to watch just the Finals. Now I don’t miss a Fever game.”
- “The WNBA needs to keep highlighting these rivalries. This is better than most NBA regular season matchups.”
- “Reese and Clark are Bird and Magic 2.0 — but with more personality.”
The hype is real — and it’s finally translating to numbers the league deserves.
What’s Next for WNBA Viewership?
Don’t expect this momentum to slow down anytime soon. Here’s what’s coming:
- 2025 All-Star Game in Las Vegas — projected to break 2.5M viewers.
- A likely Clark vs. Reese playoff matchup, which would break every existing WNBA ratings record.
- Expanded international broadcast deals, including Canada and the UK.
- Possible WNBA expansion, bringing new teams and new TV markets into the mix.
Final Thoughts: The WNBA Is Winning — On and Off the Court
The WNBA TV ratings 2025 explosion is more than a trend — it’s a turning point. Thanks to superstar talent, smart media deals, and fans showing up in record numbers, the league is growing at a pace we’ve never seen before.
And if the first half of 2025 is any indication, the second half will be even bigger.
So what do you think? Is this the WNBA’s golden era? Drop your thoughts below, share this post, and let your friends know — it’s time to start watching.
Also Read: Latest Trending News
FAQs
1. What are the current WNBA TV ratings for 2025?
As of July 2025, average WNBA game viewership is 1.4 million — up 160% from last season.
2. Who is driving the WNBA’s ratings increase?
Stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and A’ja Wilson are leading the way in both play and popularity.
3. How can I watch WNBA games live?
Games air on ESPN, ABC, Amazon Prime, CBS Sports, ION, and WNBA League Pass.
4. Are younger fans watching more WNBA now?
Yes, Gen Z viewership has nearly tripled in 2025, fueled by social media engagement and rookie stars.
5. Will this ratings growth continue?
All signs point to yes — especially with the All-Star Game, playoffs, and global expansion coming soon.
