In 2021, fewer than 1,200 fans attended the New York Liberty’s season opener at the Barclays Center, eager to see Sabrina Ionescu in action after her rookie season was confined to a pandemic bubble. Fast forward three years and Liberty’s fan base has grown exponentially, with average attendance increasing by nearly 580%. In 2023, the team achieved its first sellout at Barclays Center, and in 2024, they captured their first WNBA Finals title in front of more than 18,000 fans, marking a historic moment for the franchise.
This remarkable growth is part of a broader surge in interest and investment in women’s sports. The past few years have seen the WNBA and other leagues thrive like never before, drawing increased viewership and attendance. From high-profile rivalries like Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese to the standout performances of American Olympians Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky, 2024 proved to be a pivotal year. Records were shattered across sports, with viral moments and thrilling competitions drawing new fans and renewing enthusiasm.
The Liberty led the charge in New York, bringing the city its first professional basketball title since 1973. Despite setbacks, such as losing the Commissioner’s Cup, the team rallied to defeat the Minnesota Lynx in a dramatic WNBA Finals. Highlights included Sabrina Ionescu’s incredible game-winning shot in Game 3 and a hard-fought overtime victory in Game 5. The series was the most-watched WNBA Finals in 25 years, signaling a growing appreciation for women’s basketball. With Breanna Stewart returning for another season, the Liberty aim to defend their title in 2025.
In women’s soccer, Gotham FC built on its 2023 championship run with another strong season. The team finished third in the regular season and hosted its first home playoff match at Red Bull Arena. However, their postseason campaign ended in heartbreak after a penalty shootout loss to the Washington Spirit in the semifinals. While Gotham faces uncertainty regarding key free agents, the franchise remains a contender, reflecting the league’s growing competitiveness and popularity.
The New York Sirens, competing in the Professional Women’s Hockey League, are also on the rise. After a challenging debut season, the team made significant changes, including hiring a new coach and selecting Sarah Fillier as the No. 1 overall draft pick. Fillier quickly formed a dominant pairing with Alex Carpenter, helping the Sirens climb to third place in the league standings. With a stable home at Prudential Center and a promising roster, the Sirens are positioned for further success in 2025.
Nationally, women’s sports achieved numerous milestones in 2024. The U.S. women’s basketball team claimed Olympic gold in a nail-biting victory over France, with Brittney Griner highlighting the personal significance of the win. Simone Biles returned to competition after struggles in Tokyo, earning multiple medals and debuting a groundbreaking vault. Katie Ledecky became the most decorated American woman Olympian, setting new records and cementing her place in history as she looks ahead to 2028.
Collegiate and professional achievements added to the momentum. Penn State women’s volleyball won its first NCAA championship in a decade, with coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley leading her team through a season marked by personal resilience. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark’s WNBA debut with the Indiana Fever drew massive crowds, showcasing her transformative impact on the league and the sport as a whole.
In New York and beyond, women’s teams and athletes are seizing opportunities to inspire and engage audiences. The Liberty, Gotham FC, and Sirens exemplify this trend, building fan bases and delivering memorable performances. As 2025 approaches, the stage is set for continued growth and even more historic achievements across women’s sports.
