Dawn Staley: TV Deals Key to Women's Basketball's Future

Women's Basketball's Future Hinges on TV Deals, Says Dawn Staley The future of women's college basketball is a hot topic, and the recent comments from legendary coach Dawn Staley have ignited a discussion about the sport's financial viability. Staley, known for her outspoken nature and success with the South Carolina Gamecocks, recently stated that securing lucrative television deals is paramount to the continued growth of women's basketball. "We need to be revenue-producing," Staley emphasized, "in order for us to really be taken seriously." She pointed to the significant increase in viewership in recent years as evidence of the sport's popularity, but stressed that this popularity needs to translate into financial gains. Staley's comments are supported by statistics showing a dramatic rise in viewership of the NCAA women's national championship game over the past five seasons. According to Christine Brennan of @cbrennansports, viewership has increased from 4.1 million in 2021 to 8.5 million in 2025. This growth demonstrates a clear audience interest, but Staley argues that this isn't enough. The current financial structure, she suggests, is not sustainable for long-term growth. She calls for a proactive approach, urging the sport to actively seek out and negotiate better television contracts. Staley's message is not just about money; it's about ensuring that women's basketball receives the recognition and investment it deserves. Her passionate advocacy for the sport underscores the importance of fair compensation and equal opportunities for female athletes. The future of women's basketball may depend on the success of these negotiations, ensuring that the sport can continue to thrive and inspire future generations.