Caitlin Clark changed everything. The 2024 WNBA draft had 2.45 million viewers — more than most NBA regular season games. Attendance is up 48%. The new TV deal is worth $2.2 billion over 11 years. The WNBA went from "struggling league" to "fastest-growing sport in America" in one year.
13 teams (expanding to 16 by 2028). Season runs May-October. 40 regular season games. The Las Vegas Aces are the dynasty — back-to-back champions in 2022-23. A'ja Wilson is the face of the league.
A'ja Wilson: 2-time MVP. 2-time champion. The most dominant player in WNBA history. Averaged 27 points in 2024. She's the LeBron of the WNBA.
Caitlin Clark: The most hyped rookie in WNBA history. Set the NCAA scoring record. Her 3-point range is absurd. She made women's basketball appointment television.
Breanna Stewart: 2-time champion. 2-time Finals MVP. Moved to the Liberty in 2023. One of the most complete players ever.
WNBA max salary: ~$250,000. NBA max: ~$50M. That's why WNBA players play overseas in the offseason — Brittney Griner's detention in Russia highlighted this issue. The new CBA is improving things, but the gap remains enormous.