The NCAA women’s national championship basketball game between South Carolina and Iowa was the most bet-on female sports event in history, according to several sportsbooks. The game generated an unprecedented amount of interest and wagers, breaking records for handle and the number of betting tickets written. The matchup featured South Carolina, led by coach Dawn Staley, aiming for their third national title against Iowa and standout player Caitlin Clark, who is expected to be the top pick in the upcoming WNBA draft.
The high level of betting activity surrounding the championship game was fueled by the star power of player Caitlin Clark, who is known for her impressive ability to score from anywhere on the court with her 3-point shooting. Clark’s presence on the court drew significant attention from both sports bettors and television viewers, contributing to record-breaking numbers for women’s college basketball. The game marked the end of Clark’s collegiate career at Iowa, as she prepares to transition to the professional ranks in the WNBA where she is expected to be a top draft pick by the Indiana Fever.
Sportsbooks such as Westgate and BetMGM reported a surge in betting activity for the women’s national championship game, with Westgate noting that the handle for the game nearly doubled that of Iowa’s Elite Eight victory over LSU. Despite the success of the game in attracting wagers, some sportsbooks suggested that the betting volume could have been even higher if the game had been scheduled in prime time for a broader audience. The visibility of women’s college basketball has been steadily increasing, aided by star players like Caitlin Clark who capture the attention of fans and bettors alike.
The matchup between South Carolina and Iowa in the women’s national championship game was highly anticipated, with fans and bettors eager to see how the game would unfold. South Carolina ultimately emerged victorious with an 87-75 win over Iowa, securing a perfect season and their third national title under coach Dawn Staley. The game was broadcast on screens with audio at Red Rock Las Vegas, highlighting the widespread interest and engagement from the viewing and betting public. The success of the women’s championship game in attracting betting activity underscores the growing popularity and visibility of women’s sports in the realm of sports betting.
The record-breaking betting activity surrounding the women’s college basketball national championship exemplifies the evolving landscape of sports betting and the increasing interest in women’s sports among bettors. The game between South Carolina and Iowa showcased the talents of standout players like Caitlin Clark, whose skills and performances have garnered attention and admiration from fans and bettors alike. As women’s sports continue to gain prominence and recognition in the world of sports betting, events like the NCAA women’s championship game serve as a testament to the growing appeal and excitement surrounding women’s athletics.
