Taking Back March: Despite lower viewership in the past, the Women’s NCAA tournament is becoming more popular and has all time high TV ratings

Women’s March Madness is just as important as the male counterpart. It serves as a platform to not only showcase the athletic ability of talented athletes but also as a means of promoting gender equality within sports, inspiring future generations of female athletes.

Women’s basketball has always been an afterthought for many fans, overshadowed by its exponentially more famous counterpart — Men’s March Madness.

The annual tournament captivates fans with an all-out race for the championship, but the Men’s tournament seems to steal all media coverage and overshadows the significance of women’s sports on a broader societal scale. This year might be different though.

FOX Sports reported a 48% increase in TV ratings for the women’s tournament. Following the increased viewership, there has been greater advertisement of the sport, along with increased ticket sales to games. At the forefront of this phenomenon is the remarkable talent of highly skilled athletes like Iowa guard Caitlin Clark and LSU forward Angel Reese, who are some of the most influential female athletes of our generation. 

Clark and Reese have served as a beacon of inspiration for young girls everywhere. Seeing female athletes compete at the highest level instills confidence and self-belief in aspiring athletes. Clark has redefined the game with her exceptional skill set, basketball IQ, and unparalleled competitiveness. Her ability to score from anywhere on the court and lead her team in crucial moments has earned her widespread recognition and admiration.

Reese shares many of the same attributes. She uses her athletic abilities to dominate the court, using her 6 feet 3 inches stature to put up tough shots in the paint and snag rebounds, leading her to an average double-double with 18.7 points and 13.3 rebounds. 

With the newfound popularity of the sport, many athletes have been able to use the platform to advocate for social justice and equality, and with 3.25 million entries — 56% more than last year, according to AP news — the demand for women’s sports is on the rise.

Women’s March Madness is not just a basketball tournament; it’s a celebration of female athleticism, resilience and empowerment. Through the remarkable performances of star athletes like Clark and Reese, the tournament inspires and uplifts audiences while challenging societal norms and promoting gender equality. As women’s sports continue to gain popularity and traction in the evolution of women’s sports, it’s imperative to recognize and support the invaluable contributions of athletes who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.