Decline in WNBA Playoffs Viewership Since Caitlin Clark’s Elimination

The WNBA playoffs have seen a decline in viewership since star player Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever were eliminated by the Connecticut Sun last week. Throughout the season, Clark’s Fever team served as a significant draw, bringing a dedicated fanbase from her collegiate career at Iowa and generating new interest in women’s basketball during her inaugural professional season.

Despite the decrease in overall playoff ratings since her departure, the playoffs continue to show positive year-on-year growth. For example, the semifinal matchup between the Las Vegas Aces and New York Liberty attracted 929,000 viewers, marking the highest viewership for a WNBA semifinal in the past two decades. Although this figure falls short of the 1.8 million viewers who tuned in for the Indiana Fever versus Connecticut Sun playoff opener, it exceeds the viewership from last season’s Finals. Additionally, the Connecticut Sun versus Minnesota Lynx drew 654,000 viewers, reflecting a 39% increase from the previous Sunday’s non-Fever games, which averaged approximately 425,000 viewers.

Playoffs Viewership Summary:

• Las Vegas Aces vs. New York Liberty: 929,000 viewers
• Indiana Fever vs. Connecticut Sun: 1.8 million viewers
• Connecticut Sun vs. Minnesota Lynx: 654,000 viewers
• Atlanta Dream vs. New York Liberty: 410,000 viewers (lowest viewership game)
• Fever-Sun Game 2: 2.5 million viewers (new high for WNBA playoff viewership on cable)

The decline in WNBA ratings can be significantly attributed to intense competition from the NFL, which consistently draws large audiences, leading to “viewer cannibalization.” This occurs when sports events overlap in their broadcast times, causing viewers to choose one event over another. For instance, while Game 2 of the Fever-Sun series reached an impressive 2.5 million viewers—setting a new high for WNBA playoff viewership—weekday games without NFL competition have seen viewer numbers double compared to their weekend counterparts

Looking ahead, the WNBA is preparing for its first expansion draft in over a decade, scheduled for December 6, 2025, when the Golden State Valkyries will join the league. This draft presents an opportunity to inject fresh talent into the WNBA, which could help enhance competitiveness and attract new viewers. Each of the 12 current teams will be able to protect up to six players, ensuring that established stars remain with their teams while allowing new players to make their mark. Key prospects entering the draft include Paige Bueckers, Kiki Iriafen, and Aneesah Morrow. With their impressive skills and growing personal brands, these players have the potential to replicate the “Caitlin Clark effect,” drawing in audiences and boosting viewership.

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