The 2025 WNBA All‑Star Game, held on Saturday, July 19 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, recorded an average of 2.19 million viewers across ABC, ESPN+ and Disney+ platforms. While this represents a significant drop from the record-breaking 3.44 million viewers in 2024, it nonetheless ranks as the second-most-watched All-Star Game in league history.
Key Factors Behind the Viewership Shift
Absence of Caitlin Clark
The decline in viewership is closely tied to the non-participation of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever guard who had emerged as a major draw for the league. Clark was absent from both the game and the 3-point contest due to a groin injury, though she remained engaged as a sideline supporter. Multiple sources attribute the 36% drop directly to her absence.
An ESPN report confirmed the viewership fell 36% from last year but emphasized that the game still ranked as the second-most-watched ever.
Historical Context of WNBA Broadcast Viewership
Before 2024, WNBA All‑Star Game viewership had never surpassed 1 million, with the 2023 broadcast drawing around 850,000 viewers. Therefore, the 2025 audience of 2.19 million marks a massive 158% increase over 2023 and a 52% rise compared to the previous non-Clark high of 1.44 million in 2003.
Strong Friday Night Performances
Another bright spot during All-Star Weekend was Friday’s 3-point contest and skills challenge, which averaged 1.3 million viewers—an impressive 89% increase year-over-year.
Broader Trends and Implications
League Viewership Gains
Beyond the All-Star festivities, the regular WNBA season is showing strong viewership growth. The Indiana Fever vs. Connecticut Sun mid-July matchup drew 1.7 million viewers on ESPN, marking a 50% increase from the previous season. Additionally, ESPN’s WNBA coverage has grown by 10% across platforms, including a 29% increase for pregame programming.
The “Caitlin Clark Effect”
Caitlin Clark’s impact on TV ratings is undeniable—broadcast numbers fell dramatically in her absence, with some reporting a 55% drop in nationally televised games since her injury, and Fever-specific viewership halving. However, the 2025 All-Star numbers prove that the league’s appeal is expanding beyond one star. Reddit fans noted the steadiness of viewership even without Clark, arguing this bodes well for the broader recognition of the league.
Redditor ‘bex199’ commented:
“WNBA saw a massive viewership increase for its 3‑Point Contest and Skills Challenge… viewers had to put in extra effort … Viewership was very surprising.”.
And “GlumMastodon369” added:
“No one doubts that… she’s worth a 30‑50% bump everytime she plays!… What we are saying … is that viewership outside of when CC is playing … is significantly higher than it was in 2023”.
Viewing as Cultural Moment
The All-Star Weekend also spotlighted growing cultural significance. Players wore solidarity T-shirts demanding better pay—part of the ongoing negotiation around the WNBA’s current Collective Bargaining Agreement. Meanwhile, broadcasters celebrated increased media interest from streaming platforms like Twitch, and the visibility of players via fashion and activism bode well for audience engagement.
What It All Means
- Still impressive reach: Even with a 36% drop, 2.19 million viewers make this the second-largest All-Star audience ever, highlighting long-term growth.
- Star-driven impact: Caitlin Clark’s absence showed her ability to shape viewership—but the league’s base continues to expand.
- Momentum across formats: High interest in All-Star weekend events and regular-season games indicates sustained fan engagement.
- Foundation for future growth: Record-breaking viewership in multiple arenas supports the case for better player compensation and investment.
Despite the significant dip from last year’s record, the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game’s audience remains a landmark for women’s basketball. It reflects both the power of star players and the rising appetite for women’s sports as a whole.
