Record-Breaking Viewership Slam Dunks the Norm!

The women's NCAA final between the powerhouses from Iowa and South Carolina wasn't just another basketball game; it turned into a viewing phenomenon, rivalling NFL numbers! We're talking a whopping 18.7 million viewers for ABC and ESPN, which is 89% higher than last year's matchup. When Caitlin Clark steps on the court, records crumble, with 2024's tournament seeing its third record-smashing performance. Yet, Dawn Staley's squad didn't just show up. They dominated, claimed perfect season glory, and snagged their third crown.

A Victory Beyond the Court

What's crazier than those numbers? This showdown blew past every men's college hoops contest since 2019 and left every NBA Finals game since 2017 in the dust. Not to mention, the TV giants couldn't have wanted more; this match was the 24th most-watched telecast in all of 2024. It was a slam dunk over the richest of thoroughbreds and green-jacketed golfers at the Kentucky Derby and the Masters since the '80s and '00s, respectively. Now, with Caitlin Clark eyeing the pros, everyone's wondering, can women's basketball maintain this colossal hype? There's no doubt. The WNBA is foreseeing a ratings boost, and sports everywhere are taking notes – star power sells.