2.4 million viewers watched the record-breaking WNBA (Women's National Basketball Association), marking a 307% increase from the previous year. The week before, the NCAA Women's Basketball final drew 18.7 million viewers, establishing a new record as the most-watched women's basketball game and the second-highest basketball viewership after the Men's NCAA Final in 2019.
Mediaprobe analyzed the game and found that the 2024 Women's NCAA Final had an Emotional Impact Score (EIS) of 613. The game attracted a large audience and kept viewers engaged. It exceeded Mediaprobe's US TV sports broadcasts benchmark by 20% and outperformed all basketball telecasts, including professional games, by 24%.
The Women's NCAA Basketball Final isn't the only event showcasing the growing popularity of women's sports. The FIFA Women's World Cup broke viewership records last year in the US, Portugal, and the UK, highlighting a trend seen across various sports and markets: women's sports are engaging viewers!
Broadcasters are increasing live coverage of women's sports, leading to higher viewership and engagement. Athletes are benefiting from this trend, with a 22% year-over-year growth in sponsorships in 2023. This shift reflects the growing popularity of women's sports and changes in the sports industry, emphasizing the positive impact of promoting and supporting female athletes.
As the Summer Olympics approach, brands and broadcasters need to focus on women's emotional connection to sports to pinpoint potential sponsorship opportunities. Recognizing the strong bond female audiences have with sports will help organizations create effective marketing strategies that boost their brand and enhance the exposure of women's sports.
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In a remarkable feat for women's sports, the record-breaking telecast of the 2024 Women's NCAA Basketball Final drew an astounding 18.7 million viewers! 🏀
But there's more to this story. Our data reveals that the emotional engagement of fans during this game was unprecedented. The final garnered an Emotional Impact Score (EIS) of 613, soaring past our benchmark for US TV sports broadcasts by a whopping 20%. What's more, it has outshined all other basketball telecasts, including those of professional games, by 24%.
This is more than just a game. It's a testament to the incredible opportunities women's sports represent - for fans, engagement, and the growth of the sporting world. 🌟 The EIS is a robust indicator of viewer engagement and emotional investment - critical factors for advertisers, sponsors, and broadcasters riding the wave of sports marketing.
As we champion #WomenInSports, the narratives that unfold are resonating more deeply with audiences than ever before. This is the dawn of a new era in sports, where #WomensNCAA isn't just playing the game; it's setting an unprecedented standard for emotional engagement.
Here's to breaking barriers and celebrating every triumph - on and off the court. 🏆
#marchmadness #NCAAWBB #WFinalFour #breakingbarriers #sportsengagement #audienceengagement #emotionalimpact #audienceinsights #mediameasurement
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![2024 NCAA Women's Final, Mediaprobe Emotional Impact Score (EIS)]()
We’re so proud to honor these trailblazing women who continue to revolutionize marketing and inspire us all. Here’s to all the amazing honorees—your work is shaping the future!