Brittney Griner, one of the WNBA’s most recognizable and influential players, recently made a jaw-dropping claim that has sparked heated discussions across the sports world.
According to Griner, the WNBA will surpass the NFL in popularity and revenue within the next five years—and she attributes this meteoric rise to none other than Angel Reese.
Griner’s statement is undoubtedly bold, considering the NFL’s dominance as America’s most-watched and most profitable sports league.
With multi-billion-dollar television deals, massive stadiums filled every Sunday, and a deeply ingrained cultural significance, the NFL is widely regarded as untouchable in terms of popularity.
However, Griner believes the WNBA’s trajectory, coupled with the emergence of young stars like Reese, is setting the league up for unprecedented success.
But how realistic is this claim? Can the WNBA truly reach—or even surpass—the level of the NFL in just five years? Let’s break down the factors at play, examine the potential impact of Angel Reese, and explore whether Griner’s prediction is grounded in reality or simply wishful thinking.
The WNBA’s Rapid Growth
There is no denying that the WNBA has been experiencing a surge in popularity over the past few years.
Increased Media Attention: The WNBA has seen record-breaking viewership numbers, particularly with the arrival of high-profile rookies like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Networks such as ESPN, ABC, and CBS have been investing more in broadcasting WNBA games, leading to wider exposure.
Higher Attendance and Merchandise Sales: Teams like the Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky, and New York Liberty have seen packed arenas and soaring merchandise sales, indicating a growing fan base willing to invest in the league.
Social Media Influence: Players like Angel Reese have leveraged their massive social media followings to bring more attention to the WNBA. Reese, in particular, has used platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to connect with fans and grow the league’s visibility.
Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships: More major brands, including Nike, Gatorade, and State Farm, have started investing heavily in WNBA players, giving them a level of financial backing that was unheard of just a few years ago.
The Caitlin Clark Effect: While Griner credits Angel Reese for the WNBA’s growth, it’s impossible to ignore the impact of Caitlin Clark, who has become the biggest draw in the league. Her record-breaking performances and undeniable star power have attracted millions of new fans.
Angel Reese’s Role in the WNBA’s Growth
Griner’s claim that Angel Reese is the key to the WNBA’s potential rise over the NFL is an interesting one. Reese is undoubtedly one of the most polarizing and talked-about figures in women’s basketball today.
Angel Reese has an immense social media following, which she uses to engage with fans, promote women’s basketball, and challenge outdated perceptions of the sport.
Her ability to generate headlines—whether through her play, her outspoken nature, or her rivalry with Caitlin Clark—keeps the WNBA in the public conversation.
Reese represents a new era of WNBA players who are unapologetically confident, stylish, and socially conscious.
She connects with a younger generation of fans who admire athletes that speak their minds and embrace their identities both on and off the court.
Before even entering the WNBA, Reese had already signed endorsement deals with major brands like Reebok and Amazon.
This commercial appeal makes her one of the most marketable athletes in the league, attracting more sponsors to invest in the WNBA.
The WNBA thrives on rivalries, and Reese has positioned herself at the center of one of the most compelling storylines in recent history—her on-court battles with Caitlin Clark.
The ongoing rivalry between these two players has fueled unprecedented interest in women’s basketball.
Reese’s appeal extends beyond basketball. She has a strong following among young Black women, hip-hop fans, and those who appreciate her fearless personality. This helps broaden the WNBA’s reach to demographics that may not have previously followed the league.
Can the WNBA Really Surpass the NFL?
Despite the WNBA’s growth and Reese’s rising star, the idea that the league could surpass the NFL within five years is an extremely ambitious claim.
