By: Sydney Baird
Women’ basketball has been on the rise these past couple of years and I don’t see it slowing down anytime soon.
A New Era of Rising Stars
The talent pool of women’ basketball has never looked more promising. The increasing of watching of female athletes, we are seeing, young players emerge at all levels. The NCAA women’s basketball has grown tremendously these last couple of years. Last year the women’s NCAA tournament had more viewers than the men’s tournament. This was due to a couple well known athletes like Caitlin Clark from the University of Iowa and Paige Bueckers from the University of Connecticut. These players have grown the women’s game on and off the floor. Caitlin Clark has not only grown the college game but has also grown the WNBA. Since graduating and going to the WNBA the crowds have been sold out at almost every state and arena she plays in.
Social Impact
The growth of women’s basketball goes way beyond the court. Female athletes have been using their social media platforms to advocate for social change and equity in sports. Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers both have huge followings on all of their social medias which have also grown the game of basketball. These athletes have created a huge fan base just not for themselves but also for their schools and teammates. By posting TikTok’s and pictures with their teammates helped grow their image as well. Shelby Genes says “what helps with the growth is that everyone is always posting about everyone which spreads positivity and support of everyone even though they are on different teams.”
Increasing Popularity and Commercial Growth
The talent in women’s basketball has grown so hasn’t the popularity of the game too. Television ratings for women’s basketball have seen a steady growth in the past years. The WNBA Finals and the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament are getting more viewers, showing a clear shift in the sports landscape. The growth has increased the visibility has led to a boost in commercial investments and sponsorships. Major brands have started to take notice in partnering with women’s sports, showing that the female’s audience is both loyal and expansive. Caitlin Clark and WNBA star A’ja Wilson both have shoe deals with Nike. A’ja is the first female athlete to have their own shoe released and Caitlin’s are coming out soon behind hers.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead the future of women’s basketball is brighter than ever. As more attention is coming to women’s sports, the increased financial support and media exposure will help create what all athletes want is equal pay. With powerful athletes leading the charge, women’s basketball is set to not only entertain but also inspire millions, forever changing the landscape of the game. As women continue to dominate the basketball world, one thing is certain: the future of women’s basketball has never been more exciting. The rising stars of today will soon be the legends of tomorrow, and the best is yet to come. Shelby Genes says “women’s basketball is just going to continue to grow because of all the promotion and role modules the younger generation has that are now becoming the faces of women’s basketball and even faces of sports.”
THE PHAROS 
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