Caitlin Clark’s popularity has caused ticket prices for the women’s NCAA basketball Final Four to skyrocket, exceeding even the prices for the men’s games. The average ticket price for the women’s matchups is $726, slightly higher than the men’s at $710. Clark, who is the all-time scoring leader in men’s and women’s NCAA Division I history, has played a significant role in the surge in ticket prices as she continues to break records for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
The difference in arena sizes is another factor contributing to the high prices for the women’s games. The women are playing at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio, which has about 20,000 seats, while the men are playing at State Farm Stadium near Phoenix, which has over 63,000 seats. This disparity in seating capacity, combined with high demand, has led to the increased prices for the women’s Final Four games, a trend that has persisted from last year, according to StubHub data.
StubHub spokesperson Adam Budelli noted that ticket sales for the women’s semifinal games have seen a significant increase, more than doubling sales from last year. This surge in sales has continued since Clark helped secure Iowa’s spot in the Final Four, with sales jumping by 70% compared to when the men’s teams were decided. The momentum for women’s basketball has been strong, with fans showing increased interest and support for the sport.
Iowa’s Elite Eight win against LSU drew a massive audience of 12.3 million viewers, peaking at 16.1 million viewers and setting the all-time ratings record for a women’s college basketball game. Clark and the top-seeded Hawkeyes will face the No. 3 UConn Huskies in the Final Four, with NC State playing against South Carolina in the earlier semifinal game. The men’s Final Four is set to take place on Saturday night, following the women’s games on Friday.
The increased ticket prices for the women’s Final Four indicate the growing popularity and interest in women’s basketball, driven in part by star players like Clark. The strong sales and record-breaking viewership numbers demonstrate the significant impact that players like Clark can have on the sport and its fan base. As women’s basketball continues to gain momentum and recognition, it is likely that ticket prices and attendance will continue to rise, further cementing the sport’s place in the sports world.
Overall, Caitlin Clark’s success and popularity have not only propelled the Iowa Hawkeyes to the Final Four but have also driven increased ticket sales and prices for women’s NCAA basketball games. The disparity in arena sizes, combined with Clark’s record-breaking performances and the overall growth of the sport, have contributed to the high demand for tickets and elevated prices. As women’s basketball continues to gain traction and attract larger audiences, it is clear that star players like Clark are playing a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport and increasing its visibility on a national stage.
