Iowa’s historic 71-69 victory over UConn in the NCAA Final Four game attracted a record-breaking 14.2 million viewers, the highest in women’s college basketball history. The game also produced the highest audience for a basketball game, college or professional, and ranked as the second-best non-football telecast on ESPN. The matchup surpassed viewership figures of last year’s World Series and NBA Finals, peaking at 17 million viewers. This record-breaking viewership followed Iowa’s Elite Eight victory over LSU, which garnered 12.3 million viewers. Caitlin Clark, the all-time leading scorer in NCAA history, played a significant role in leading the Hawkeyes to victory, scoring 21 points while being supported by sophomore forward Hannah Stuelke’s 23 points.
South Carolina’s dominant 78-59 win over NC State in the preceding Final Four game reached a peak of 9 million viewers. The overall average viewership for the 2024 Final Four was reported at 10.8 million, marking a 138% increase from the previous year. South Carolina has maintained an undefeated record this season, establishing themselves as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. Clark acknowledged the strength of South Carolina’s team, acknowledging their position at the top of the league and expressing the Hawkeyes’ determination to compete at a similar level.
The success of the NCAA Final Four games in drawing record viewership highlights the growing popularity and interest in women’s college basketball. The intense matchups, star players like Caitlin Clark, and the competitiveness of the teams have contributed to the heightened excitement surrounding the tournament. The record-breaking viewership numbers not only reflect the talent and dedication of the athletes but also indicate the expanding fan base and support for women’s basketball at the collegiate level.
The significance of these record-breaking viewership figures extends beyond the individual games and teams involved, showcasing the broader impact of women’s college basketball. Increased visibility and media coverage help to elevate the profile of the sport, providing opportunities for players to showcase their skills and reach a wider audience. The success of the Final Four games, particularly in attracting a diverse and engaged viewership, demonstrates the potential for continued growth and development of women’s basketball at all levels.
As teams like Iowa and South Carolina continue to raise the bar in women’s college basketball, the competition and excitement around the sport are likely to increase. The performances of standout players like Caitlin Clark and the dominance of teams such as South Carolina create compelling storylines and draw in fans from across the country. With record-breaking viewership figures and growing interest, women’s college basketball is poised for further success and recognition in the sports world, paving the way for future generations of talented athletes to make their mark on the game.
