College basketball is one the most exhilarating events in the country. This is particularly because of its postseason tournament, March Madness. In the tournament, 68 teams battle each other over a span of three weeks in order to win a national championship. The tournament is known for its chaos, upsets, and buzzer-beaters. It is one of the most watched sporting events in the country with an average of 9.8 million viewers.
But while many fans are busy making the perfect men’s bracket and looking for the best team, they are missing the action on the women’s side.
The attention gap between women’s and men’s college basketball has always existed, but in my opinion it is more prevalent in March. I believe that this is because many assume that there are no upsets or excitement in the women’s games.
In reality, however, this is not true. Just this year, Virginia, a team that was part of the First Four, advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. In order to get to this position, they won a game against two-seeded Iowa. This is a perfect instance of just how much fun the women’s games can bring.
The women’s game is experiencing a great rise in popularity and viewership. In the 2024 championship averaged 18.7 million viewers, drawing more than the men’s. This game played by South Carolina and Iowa was the most watched college game on record. I was able to attend this game and see it happen in action. It was incredible to watch an intense game in a sold out arena. I am someone who has always been passionate about women’s basketball and women’s sports in general, so it was extremely special.
Gender equality also is another reason why women deserve the spotlight. According to The New York Times, there was a $13.5 million budget between the men’s and women’s tournaments in 2019. This a significant disparity in spending resources and it needs to be addressed. The women’s and men’s tournament should have the same budget.
Additionally, the athletes playing in the games are an inspiration to the younger generation. If their games are not covered by major media, young girls will never discover these role-models and form dreams of their own. Athletes like Catlin Clark and Paige Bueckers have already changed the game at the collegiate level and are now changing it at the professional level. Others like Hannah Hidalgo, Azzi Fudd, and Jazz Davidson are breaking new collegiate records every day.
Some may argue there is limited space in the media, but the demand is present. People are watching women’s basketball. The numbers are clear, and evidence, the popularity, and support are there. Also, focusing attention on the women’s game will only increase viewership and therefore the money that can be made for these broadcasting companies.
The bottom line is women’s basketball deserves the respect that the men receive. They are not a sideshow but a movement full of talent. While progress has been made, there is still a way to go. All women’s sports deserve equal recognition and steps towards that need to happen today.
