The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has reportedly attracted an average of 500,000 more viewers per game than the National Hockey League (NHL) in 2025, according to viral statistics circulating on social media. In the United States, the WNBA averaged over 960,000 viewers per nationally televised game, while the NHL averaged approximately 440,000 viewers in the same period. This significant surge highlights a notable shift in sports viewership patterns during the season.
However, these figures primarily represent US audiences, leading to discussions online about the NHL’s Canadian fan base, which is not reflected in those numbers. The NHL features six Canadian franchises and draws considerable viewership in Canada, where hockey is considered the national sport, thus complicating direct comparison between the leagues.
WNBA Achieves Record-Breaking Audience Numbers in 2025
According to ESPN reports, the 2025 WNBA season reached its highest viewership ever, with an average of 969,000 viewers tuning in nationally for games broadcast across ESPN, ABC, CBS, and Ion Networks. These impressive figures were recorded despite limited on-court appearances from star player Caitlin Clark and a below-par season from Angel Reese alongside the Chicago Sky. The rising audience indicates growing fan engagement and expanding visibility for the league.
Negotiations Over Collective Bargaining Agreement Hold Critical Importance
The surge in WNBA viewership comes amid ongoing talks to renew the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), a process described as urgent by players’ representatives and league officials. The WNBA has stressed the need to finalize a new CBA by March 10 to prevent disruption to the 2026 season schedule. Alexa Philippou reported that this deadline is essential to maintaining the league’s momentum and avoiding scheduling conflicts.
Breanna Stewart, vice president of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), emphasized the limited time remaining to secure an agreement during negotiations held in February. Stewart highlighted the necessity for both sides to listen closely and resolve long-standing differences, particularly concerning issues described as “non-negotiables.”
“Time is of the essence,” Stewart told CBS Sports. “I think that both sides are very aware that this has gone on way longer than it needed to. But hopefully we can really start to be hearing each other and they hear us on things that are non-negotiables.” – Breanna Stewart, WNBPA Vice President
If a new CBA is successfully agreed upon soon, the 2026 season could feature notable developments such as an active free agency period and expansion drafts for teams like the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo, further enhancing league competitiveness and fan interest.
WNBA’s Growing Popularity Reflects Broader Trends in Women’s Sports
The WNBA’s increasing television ratings and fan engagement illustrate a broader trend of rising interest in women’s professional sports. This growth is particularly significant given the competitive sports media environment and the challenges many leagues face in retaining and expanding their audiences. The league’s ability to sustain and build on these numbers will depend on ongoing investments, strong player relations, and strategic marketing efforts.
In comparison, the NHL’s viewership remains strong internationally due to its Canadian market presence, yet the WNBA’s growth demonstrates the potential for women’s basketball to capture larger audiences domestically. This shift signals promising opportunities for sports networks and sponsors looking to support and benefit from this expanding fan base.
What the Future Holds for the WNBA and Its Fans
With record viewership and crucial contract negotiations underway, the WNBA stands at a pivotal moment in its development. How quickly and effectively the league and players’ union resolve the CBA talks will significantly influence the direction and stability of the next season and beyond. Fans can anticipate a more dynamic league if an agreement is reached, including potential expansion, enhanced player movement in free agency, and increased media exposure.
As the WNBA continues to rise in prominence and viewership, it not only challenges traditional sports hierarchies but also strengthens the profile of women’s professional sports across North America. The league’s trajectory in the coming years will likely serve as a benchmark for growth and sustainability in sports entertainment.
WNBA Viewership in US last season: 960,000+ per game.
NHL Viewership: 440,000 per game.— Sally Jenkins (@SallyJenki) February 23, 2026
