As the WNBA Finals kick off, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the remarkable 2024 season that has captivated fans and set new benchmarks for the league. This year stands out not only for its record-breaking performances but also for the emergence of exciting new talent. Rookies like Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever and Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky have made a significant impact, with both players leading the league in crucial statistical categories. Clark shone brightly, averaging an impressive 8.4 assists per game, while Reese dominated the boards with an average of 13.1 rebounds per game.
Clark’s achievements extend beyond her on-court performance. The former Iowa Hawkeye was honored with the Rookie of the Year award and etched her name in history by recording the first triple-double for a rookie and scoring the highest points ever achieved by a newcomer. Furthermore, she garnered a spot in the top five for the MVP voting, underscoring her influence in the league. Meanwhile, A’ja Wilson, a seasoned player for the Las Vegas Aces, continued to showcase her prowess. In her seventh season, she scored an astounding 1,021 points and secured 451 rebounds—setting a new record for the most points in a single season. Her outstanding performance earned her a third MVP award, solidifying her legacy in the league.
The excitement generated during the regular season has carried over into the playoffs, resulting in unprecedented viewership growth for the WNBA. ESPN recently reported a staggering 142% increase in playoff viewership compared to 2023, with an average of 970,000 viewers tuning in across 17 games. This surge in interest marks the highest viewership figures since the league’s inception in 1997. Particularly notable was the semifinals, which experienced a remarkable 99% increase from the previous year, averaging 850,000 viewers.
As the Finals progress, fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming games, with the Minnesota Lynx aiming to extend their lead over the New York Liberty in this best-of-five series. In a thrilling Game 1, the Lynx edged out a narrow 95-93 victory in overtime, setting the stage for an exhilarating matchup ahead. Game 2 is set to tip off at 3 p.m. ET on ABC, and the anticipation is palpable as both teams vie for supremacy.
With the WNBA Finals continuing this weekend, the league is not just celebrating its current stars but also the promising future ahead. As more viewers engage with the games and follow the remarkable talent on display, the WNBA is poised for even greater heights in the seasons to come.
