The WNBA is taking steps to capitalize on the rising popularity of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star and Rookie of the Year, with plans to expand the regular season and move to a seven-game series format for the Finals in 2025.
The WNBA is experiencing a surge in popularity, and the league is determined to ride the wave by expanding the regular season and moving to a seven-game series format for the Finals in 2025. These changes are largely driven by the remarkable impact that Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has had on the league in her rookie season.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announced the news before Game 1 of the WNBA Finals between the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty. "The finals mark the culmination of what I think is the most transformational year in the WNBA's history," she said.
WNBA Expands with Caitlin Clark as Rising Star
The league has seen record-breaking viewership, attendance, and engagement, with Clark playing a major role. More than 2.3 million fans attended games this season, the most in 22 years. The Indiana Fever led the WNBA in average attendance, with 10 of their games setting league TV viewership records.
Clark's impact extends beyond the Indiana Fever. The league has expanded to include 15 teams, with the latest being awarded to Portland. The WNBA recently announced a landmark media rights deal with the Walt Disney Company, Amazon Prime Video, and NBCUniversal, set to run through 2036. Delta Air Lines also became the official airline partner of the WNBA.
WNBA Expands with Caitlin Clark as Rising Star
The league's growth is evident in the record 22 regular-season telecasts averaging at least 1 million viewers. According to the Sports Business Journal, Clark played in 19 of those games.
The 2025 schedule will include 44 games for each team, up from the current 36. The best-of-five semifinals and finals will be replaced by a best-of-seven format. These changes are designed to provide fans with more opportunities to see the league's top players and increase the overall excitement surrounding the postseason.
WNBA Expands with Caitlin Clark as Rising Star
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert believes that the league's growth and increased demand for WNBA basketball make this the ideal time to expand the schedule, lengthen the finals, and provide fans more opportunities to see the best players in the world compete at the highest level.
Caitlin Clark has undoubtedly played a significant role in the WNBA's resurgence. Her exceptional play, coupled with her charisma and marketability, has helped bring new fans to the league and drive its growth. The WNBA is wise to capitalize on this momentum by making strategic changes that will showcase Clark's talents and enhance the fan experience.
The league's commitment to expansion and innovation is a testament to its confidence in the future. With Caitlin Clark leading the charge, the WNBA is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.
