The WNBA rookie class of 2024 is generating unprecedented interest, especially with players like Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese joining the league. Fans were eager to watch their preseason debuts with the Chicago Sky, but were disappointed when they discovered that the game was not available for streaming despite the WNBA League Pass app listing it as accessible. Caitlin Clark’s debut with the Indiana Fever was the only game available for viewing on Friday, leaving fans of Cardoso, Reese, and the Sky frustrated.
In an effort to provide fans with some sort of viewing experience, an X user with the handle @heyheyitsalli offered to livestream the game from her phone on Twitter. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with her stream attracting over 173,000 viewers at its peak and accumulating more than 400,000 views through replays. While the quality of the stream was not professional-grade, it still offered fans a way to watch the game, which featured Reese scoring 13 points and grabbing nine rebounds, and Cardoso contributing six points, four rebounds, and two blocks.
The streaming of the game garnered interest not only from WNBA fans, but also from prominent figures within the league. Seattle Storm legend Sue Bird gave @heyheyitsalli a shout-out, while Lynx president and head coach Cheryl Reeve commented on the situation and the implications it has for the business of the WNBA. Reeve highlighted the rapid growth of the league and emphasized the need for increased investment and adaptability to capitalize on the heightened interest in the WNBA.
Reeve acknowledged that while much of the recent interest in the WNBA can be attributed to players like Caitlin Clark, Reese, and Cardoso, the league must also ensure that it can meet the demands of its expanding fanbase. As the league prepares to welcome the 2024 rookie class, there is a clear need for increased investment and resources to fully capitalize on the surge in interest. Reeve emphasized the importance of recognizing and responding to the changing landscape of women’s basketball and the potential for further growth and success.
The streaming of the preseason game by @heyheyitsalli served as a reminder of the passion and enthusiasm surrounding the WNBA and the need for the league to adapt to meet the increased demand for content. The success of the stream highlighted the potential for the league to reach a wider audience and engage fans in new and innovative ways. With the arrival of the highly anticipated rookie class of 2024, the WNBA has an opportunity to continue to grow and evolve, but it will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders to ensure that the league can fully capitalize on its rising popularity.
