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WNBA Season Opener Shatters Viewership Records, Boosting League's Popularity

Iowa guard Caitlin Clark signs autographs after an NCAA college basketball game against Loyola of Chicago, Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, in Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa won 98-69. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

The WNBA has kicked off its 28th season with high anticipation, fueled by the addition of top college players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink. This influx of talent is expected to boost ratings and attendance for the league. The season opener featuring Caitlin Clark's professional debut garnered 2.13 million viewers, marking the most-watched WNBA game since 2001.

Interest in the WNBA has been steadily rising, with the 2023 regular season attracting over 36 million unique viewers, the highest since 2008. The league's financial progress is evident, with initiatives like chartering all travel and compensating players on maternity leave fully. The WNBA is also eyeing a significant increase in media rights fees for the next round of negotiations.

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