They reduced $12million from the expected losses, originally estimated at $52million

For many, the entry of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese into the WNBA signified an enhancement in the quality of the sport, and they are correct; it indeed has improved. Nonetheless, The New York Post reported that the league is facing a potential $40 million loss in the 2024 season.

Irreparable losses

Since this two superstars joined the league, we have seen great results, transformed into sell-out crowds, increased merchandise sales and boosted TV audience numbers. For example, ESPN saw a 170% increase in viewership, and there were over 100 more sold-out games compared to the previous year.

Then, why is the league still facing significant losses? Well, they were expecting losses of $52million at the beginning of the season, but they have been reduced this figures to $40million thanks to the impact of Caitlin and Angel. Despite this, the WNBA is still not generating enough revenue to turn a profit. The league, however, is awaiting a $2.2billion media rights deal to kick in during the 2026 season. Numbers still do not add up.

A league executive told to the New York Post: “WNBA owes the NBA so much we won’t see any windfall for years.”