WNBA All-Star Game Draws Record Viewership as Ogunbowale Shines

The 2024 WNBA All-Star Game was a historic night for women’s basketball, not just for the thrilling on-court action but also for the record-setting audience that tuned in. The game, held at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, saw Team WNBA take down Team USA 117-109, with Dallas Wings star Arike Ogunbowale leading the charge.

Ogunbowale put on a dazzling performance, scoring 34 points to break the All-Star Game scoring record and earn MVP honors. Her aggressive shooting, including several deep three-pointers, electrified the crowd and kept Team USA on the back foot throughout the game.

“This is what it’s all about,” Ogunbowale said after the game. “The energy, the competition, and most importantly, showing the world what the WNBA is capable of.”

The game also marked a significant moment for women’s sports broadcasting, as the 3.44 million viewers on ABC set a new record for the WNBA All-Star Game. The previous high was set in 2023, continuing a trend of increasing fan engagement and television ratings for the league.

The rise in viewership reflects growing interest in women’s basketball, fueled in part by high-profile college stars transitioning to the WNBA, including Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink. Their presence has contributed to increased media coverage and record-breaking attendance figures across the league.

“The WNBA is experiencing unprecedented momentum,” said Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “The talent, the rivalries, and the fan engagement have reached new heights, and we’re just getting started.”

Beyond Ogunbowale’s dominance, the game featured standout performances from other stars, including Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, who combined for 42 points for Team USA. The matchup served as a preview for the Paris 2024 Olympics, with Team USA using the All-Star event as a tune-up for their gold medal campaign.

With the WNBA continuing to expand its influence, the success of the All-Star Game serves as another milestone in the league’s rapid growth. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether the WNBA can capitalize on this momentum and further solidify its place in the mainstream sports landscape.