In recent years, the WNBA has emerged as one of the most-watched sports leagues in the U.S. With the help of the NBA, it has reached a level that was unimaginable just a few years ago.
Angel Reese recognizes the inspiring influence of Candace Parker
This success is due in part to standout athletes like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who have brought the WNBA to a new level of appeal through their amazing and entertaining performances.
A hidden gem for too long
However, this growth could have happened sooner, as the talent was always there, but no one was investing in it. Former WNBA player and now legend Candace Parker recently addressed the lack of trust and interest in women’s sports from both the public and broadcasting channels.
She discussed this during an appearance on the ‘Bloomberg Originals‘ podcast, where she highlighted the challenges the league faces in attracting a larger audience and criticized major television networks for ignoring opportunities to invest in women’s sports.
“The first time they put the Women’s NCAA game on ABC was the first year that Caitlin Clark made the championship game. Are you surprised that the viewership was up? Are you surprised that people actually saw the product? It was buried for so long on ESPN,” Parker said.
She also explained how the WNBA is not seen as powerful as other men’s leagues, which carefully plan schedules to avoid conflicts with other major sporting events. The NBA, for example, organizes its schedule to avoid competing with NFL playoffs or NFL opening week.
“The NBA doesn’t want to clash with NFL playoffs or NFL opening week. So why would we then put the WNBA? I don’t care if that’s the time slot they’re giving you.,” Parker added.
Let’s fight for another one or let’s find something else
Progress is being made, but although more could have been done earlier to develop women’s basketball, the league is finally gaining the recognition it has long deserved. It’s only a matter of time before it evolves to be as independent and autonomous as men’s sports.
