WNBA Sees Record Attendance as Teams Explore Larger Venues

The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is seeing an unparalleled rise in attendance, causing teams to think about relocating to bigger venues to accommodate the increasing fan base. The league has seen a significant increase in ticket sales and overall interest, with many games selling out in advance.

"We are thrilled to see the incredible support from fans across the country," said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. "The level of talent and competition in the WNBA is at an all-time high, and it's clear that fans are taking notice."

Several WNBA teams, including the Seattle Storm and the Las Vegas Aces, have already begun exploring options for larger venues. The Storm, who currently play at the Angel of the Winds Arena with a capacity of 8,000, are considering a move to the Climate Pledge Arena, which can seat over 18,000 fans for basketball games.

"We want to ensure that every fan who wants to attend a Storm game has the opportunity to do so," said Storm CEO and General Manager Alisha Valavanis. "Moving to a larger arena would allow us to welcome even more fans and create an incredible atmosphere for our players."

Why this matters: The WNBA's attendance surge reflects a growing interest in women's professional sports and could lead to increased revenue and exposure for the league. As more fans flock to WNBA games, the demand for larger venues and enhanced fan experiences will likely continue to rise.

The WNBA's attendance growth comes on the heels of a highly successful 2023 season, which saw the league set records for viewership and social media engagement. The increased fan interest has also attracted new sponsors and media partners, further boosting the league's profile.

As the WNBA continues to look into possibilities for bigger venues, Commissioner Engelbert stressed the league's dedication to its fans. "Our priority is to provide the best possible experience for our fans and to continue showcasing the incredible talent of our players," she said. "We are excited about the future of the WNBA and look forward to welcoming even more fans to our games in the years to come."

Key Takeaways

• WNBA sees surge in attendance, teams exploring larger venues
• Seattle Storm considering move to Climate Pledge Arena with 18,000+ capacity
• WNBA sets records for viewership and social media engagement in 2023
• Increased fan interest attracts new sponsors and media partners
• WNBA prioritizes providing best fan experience and showcasing player talent