The NBA Board of Governors approved the concept of a women's-only league in 1996, leading to the establishment of the WNBA in 1997.
Initially consisting of eight teams, the WNBA has expanded to 13 active teams and plans to add five new cities to accommodate the surge in viewership and attendance.
In 2024, the WNBA set an all-time viewership record, with its most-watched season in 21 years, and in-person attendance increased by 48% from the 2023 season.
The Las Vegas Aces were crowned the 2025 season champions, capping off the WNBA's 29th season.
Everyone watches women’s basketball, even men who belittle it
Author's summary: WNBA grows in popularity and viewership.