The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is experiencing a period of significant growth and development, marked by international expansion, player achievements, and increased visibility for women’s sports.
Historic International Expansion
In a groundbreaking move, the WNBA announced its first regular-season game outside the United States. The Atlanta Dream and Seattle Storm are set to face off on August 15, 2025, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada. This follows the league’s successful exhibition game in Toronto in May 2023 and the awarding of a franchise to Toronto, set to begin play in 2026. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasized the league’s commitment to international growth, particularly in Canada, where interest in women’s basketball is surging.
Player Development and Recognition
Caitlin Clark, the 2024 No. 1 overall draft pick for the Indiana Fever, is making headlines with her rigorous offseason training regimen. After a record-setting rookie season that earned her Rookie of the Year honors, Clark is focusing on improving her midrange shooting and finishing techniques. Fans have noted her increased muscle mass, indicating a commitment to becoming even more formidable on the court. The Fever, under new head coach Stephanie White, aim for a stronger performance in the upcoming season, which begins on May 17, 2025.
Additionally, Cameron Brink, a promising rookie with the Los Angeles Sparks whose season was cut short due to injury, has been announced as a wildcard player for Unrivaled, a new professional women’s 3-on-3 basketball league. Co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, Unrivaled is set to launch on January 17 in Miami, featuring prominent players and aiming to elevate the economic status of women’s basketball.
League Growth and Economic Impact
The WNBA continues to experience significant growth in viewership and economic impact. A Deloitte report estimated that women’s sports would surpass $1 billion in global revenue for the first time in 2024, a 300% increase from 2021. This surge is attributed to increased viewership and lucrative corporate sponsorships. The WNBA secured an 11-year media rights deal valued at $200 million and saw its highest regular-season viewership in 24 years, along with record attendance.
Upcoming Events
The Washington Mystics have announced their 2025 preseason schedule, including games against the Indiana Fever on May 3 and the Atlanta Dream on May 7. The latter will feature the annual “DeMysting STEM” day, inviting school students to engage with the team and promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
As the WNBA continues to expand its reach and influence, both domestically and internationally, the league is poised for a future of sustained growth and increased prominence in the global
sports landscape.
