The N.C.A.A. women's basketball finals achieved a historic milestone by attracting 18.9 million viewers in 2024, outpacing the men's finals, which had 14.8 million viewers. This increase in interest highlights a significant shift in public perception and engagement with women's sports. Notably, the jump from approximately 10 million viewers in 2023 illustrates the growing popularity of women's basketball, aided by stars like Caitlin Clark. Despite its progress, women's sports have had a longer path to visibility due to historical disparities in funding and airtime with men's sports since the N.C.A.A.'s establishment.
At last year's N.C.A.A. women's basketball tournament, the women's final drew 18.9 million viewers, surpassing the men's viewership of 14.8 million, marking a significant milestone.
The women's finals not only achieved a record number of viewers but also demonstrated a consistent growth trend for women's basketball, building momentum long before popular players like Caitlin Clark emerged.
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