The 2025 WNBA preseason is poised to make history, with all games broadcast or streamed for the first time and ticket sales reaching unprecedented levels, reflecting the league's surging global popularity.

This season marks a transformative period for the WNBA, characterized by comprehensive media coverage, a significant increase in international fan engagement, and the emergence of star players captivating audiences worldwide.

In a groundbreaking move, the WNBA has ensured that every preseason game in 2025 will be accessible to fans globally through various platforms. The preseason action begins Friday and will be available on ION, NBA TV, ESPN, and the WNBA League Pass, with streaming via the WNBA App. This initiative aims to make the games more accessible to a global audience, reflecting the league's commitment to expanding its reach and engaging a diverse fan base.

The league has witnessed a remarkable surge in international interest, with ticket purchases from fans in 29 countries, a substantial increase from 12 countries in 2024. This growth indicates a burgeoning global fan base and the universal appeal of the sport.

The enthusiasm surrounding the 2025 preseason is largely driven by star players such as Paige Bueckers, A'ja Wilson, and Caitlin Clark. Their exceptional performances and growing popularity have significantly contributed to the highest preseason ticket sales in StubHub's history.

• Paige Bueckers: A standout player known for her remarkable skills and leadership on the court.
• A'ja Wilson: A two-time WNBA MVP and a pivotal figure for the Las Vegas Aces.
• Caitlin Clark: At 22, Clark has already set multiple records, including the NCAA Division 1 women's scoring record and rookie records in the WNBA for three-pointers and assists. Her college championship game between Iowa and South Carolina drew nearly 19 million viewers, making it the second most-watched women's sporting event outside the Olympics in U.S. history.

The Indiana Fever leads in demand, experiencing a 497% increase in ticket sales compared to last year. This surge is followed by high interest in the Chicago Sky, Connecticut Sun, New York Liberty, and Dallas Wings. These figures reflect a growing momentum and fan engagement ahead of the regular season.

The preseason is set to feature notable player debuts and key trades that have heightened anticipation:

• Paige Bueckers' Debut: Bueckers will make her WNBA debut for the Dallas Wings against the Las Vegas Aces.
• Jewell Loyd's Trade: Jewell Loyd will play her first game with the Las Vegas Aces post-trade, adding to the excitement surrounding the team's prospects.

The developments in the 2025 WNBA preseason have several social and societal implications:

• Increased Visibility for Women's Sports: The comprehensive broadcasting and streaming of preseason games enhance the visibility of women's basketball, promoting gender equality in sports media coverage.
• Global Engagement: The surge in international ticket sales signifies a growing global interest in women's basketball, fostering cross-cultural connections and expanding the sport's reach.
• Economic Impact: Record-breaking ticket sales and heightened media attention contribute to the economic growth of the league and affiliated businesses, potentially leading to increased investments and sponsorships.

The current surge in interest and engagement with the WNBA mirrors historical moments in sports where transformative figures and strategic initiatives have propelled leagues to new heights. The NBA's growth in the 1980s, driven by stars like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, serves as a parallel, highlighting the potential for sustained growth through star power and strategic marketing.

The 2025 WNBA preseason represents a pivotal moment in the league's history, characterized by unprecedented global attention, strategic media initiatives, and the emergence of star players. These developments not only enhance the league's profile but also contribute to the broader advancement of women's sports on the global stage.