As the WNBA gears up for the 2024 season, excitement surrounds the professional debuts of several top-tier college stars, including Iowa’s Caitlin Clark. This season follows a record-breaking women’s college basketball season, boosting the profile of the women’s game to unprecedented heights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most anticipated storylines and changes this WNBA season.
Anticipation Builds with Caitlin Clark’s Debut
Caitlin Clark, the standout from Iowa, joins the Indiana Fever and is set to make her much-anticipated WNBA debut. Clark’s impact has already been monumental, with the WNBA draft viewership hitting its highest since 2000, showcasing her significant pull. The Fever, sharing the 17,000-seat Gainbridge Fieldhouse with the NBA’s Pacers, are prepared for high fan turnout, while other teams have shifted their games to larger venues to accommodate the increased demand.
Season’s Viewing Essentials
The WNBA has expanded its broadcasting reach this season, with games airing across ESPN platforms, CBS/Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, Ion, NBA TV, and Prime Video. Notably, 36 of the Fever’s 40 games will be broadcast nationally, highlighting the league’s strategy to capitalize on the high interest in new talents like Clark.
Dominant Teams and New Challengers
The Las Vegas Aces are on a quest for a third consecutive title, led by two-time MVP A’ja Wilson. However, the New York Liberty, powered by stars like Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, are poised to challenge the Aces’ dominance. Both teams are stacked with talent, promising another exciting showdown in the Finals.
Charter Flights and Player Welfare
The league has addressed long-standing concerns about travel conditions by announcing that it will fund charter flights for the next two years, a move that enhances player safety and comfort. This decision reflects the WNBA’s commitment to improving the professional environment for its athletes.
Coaching Carousel
This season sees new coaching faces with Teresa Weatherspoon taking the reins at Chicago and Nate Tibbetts leading Phoenix. Weatherspoon returns to the WNBA with valuable NBA experience, while Tibbetts enters the women’s league after a long tenure as an NBA assistant.
End of an Era and Rising Stars
The retirement of Candace Parker marks the end of an era, while Diana Taurasi may also be nearing the conclusion of her illustrious career. Meanwhile, rookies like Cameron Brink and Kamilla Cardoso are set to start their first professional season, adding fresh talent to the league’s roster.
Local Players to Watch
The season also highlights several players with local connections, such as Aliyah Boston from Indiana Fever and Taylor Soule, potentially with the Minnesota Lynx. These players bring local fanbases and additional storylines to follow throughout the season.
Odds and Expectations
As usual, the Aces are the favorites for the title, with the Liberty close behind. A’ja Wilson is a top contender for her third MVP award, with Caitlin Clark also favored to win Rookie of the Year, underscoring her exceptional talent and the high expectations placed upon her.
This WNBA season not only promises high-caliber basketball and thrilling competitions but also showcases significant advancements in player welfare and broadcasting, setting the stage for one of the most engaging seasons yet.
