As the 2025 season approaches, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the New York Liberty, the defending champions, are experiencing an unprecedented surge in ticket sales. According to StubHub’s 2025 WNBA Season Preview, ticket sales have increased by a staggering 145% compared to the previous season, marking the highest preseason sales in the league’s history.
This surge is not limited to a single team; all 12 returning WNBA franchises are witnessing significant growth in ticket demand. Notably, first-time WNBA ticket buyers have increased by 28%, and international ticket sales have more than doubled, with fans from 29 countries purchasing tickets, up from 12 the previous year.
The arrival of Caitlin Clark in the WNBA has been a major driver of this unprecedented demand. Having shattered college basketball records at the University of Iowa and captured national attention with her dynamic playing style, Clark has become a cultural icon.
Her move to the Indiana Fever has made that franchise the hottest ticket in the league, with nine of their games featuring among the ten best-sellers on StubHub this season. Whether playing at home or away, Clark draws massive crowds, often forcing teams to move games to larger venues.
New York Liberty Ticket Prices Reflect Growing Demand
In New York City, the New York Liberty are at the forefront of this boom. The success of the Liberty, coupled with the overall rise in popularity of the WNBA, has led to a significant increase in ticket prices. The average cost per game for season ticket holders has risen from approximately $55 in 2024 to about $97 in 2025, representing a 76% increase.
This price hike is evident across various seating sections at the Barclays Center:
- 🍿 Upper Bowl: Season tickets introduced in 2025, starting at $25 per game.
- 💺 Lower Bowl: Season tickets now average $80–$85 per game, up from $50–$55 in 2024.
- 🌟 Courtside/VIP: Premium seats have reached unprecedented prices, with some resale tickets listed at nearly $9,860 for regular-season games.
Despite these increases, demand remains robust. The Liberty’s home games are drawing larger crowds, and premium seating options are selling out quickly. To accommodate loyal fans, the team has implemented measures such as capping price increases for long-term season ticket holders.
The Broader Impact on Women’s Basketball
The surge in ticket sales and prices reflects a broader shift in the perception and popularity of women’s basketball. The WNBA’s growing visibility, bolstered by star players and increased media coverage, is attracting a more extensive and diverse fan base.
This momentum suggests a promising future for the league, with expectations of continued growth in attendance, viewership, and overall engagement.