The media landscape surrounding the WNBA has long been a point of contention, but recent events have escalated frustrations to a boiling point. The WNBA, a league that continues to grow in both talent and visibility, is still facing significant challenges in terms of media coverage, representation, and respect. But what’s more alarming is the way the media has, at times, treated the players and the league—sometimes with blatant disregard for their achievements and potential.

From biased reporting to outdated narratives, it’s clear that the WNBA’s media treatment doesn’t always match the talent and hard work of its athletes. In this article, we’ll explore the ongoing issues plaguing the coverage of women’s basketball and why it’s become an embarrassment to the sport.

Unbalanced Coverage and Media Neglect

One of the most glaring problems with WNBA media coverage is the unbalanced nature of the attention it receives compared to its male counterpart, the NBA. While the NBA has achieved global recognition with millions of viewers tuning in to games, the WNBA continues to struggle to secure consistent, in-depth media coverage. It’s not just a case of lower ratings—it’s the fact that the media often treats women’s basketball as an afterthought.

During the WNBA season, there is frequently a lack of highlight coverage, minimal discussion on mainstream sports networks, and an overall sense of neglect when it comes to showcasing the league’s stars. Players like Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, A’ja Wilson, and Jewell Loyd, who are widely considered some of the best basketball players in the world, often fail to get the same level of exposure as their NBA counterparts. This disparity is not only frustrating for the players but for fans who want to see these athletes succeed and be recognized for their talent.

Sensationalizing Drama Instead of Celebrating Talent

Another disturbing trend is how the media often sensationalizes drama rather than focusing on the skill and talent of the athletes. The media frequently gravitates toward controversies, off-court issues, and petty feuds, rather than covering the true essence of the game itself. Take, for instance, the constant focus on the feud between players, or even media’s obsession with ‘drama’ rather than actual game highlights and performances.

One glaring example is how the media covers the WNBA Finals. Instead of focusing on the strategic brilliance, athleticism, and determination that goes into these championship games, coverage is often reduced to oversimplified narratives around personal rivalries, or even superficial discussions about players’ personalities. This kind of coverage does a disservice to the game and the women who dedicate their lives to the sport.

Why is it that the men’s league gets the adoration for the game itself, while the women’s league gets bogged down with these trivial narratives? The WNBA has had some of the best players in the world for years, yet they still find themselves fighting to be respected as athletes first.

Outdated Stereotypes and Paternalistic Attitudes

The WNBA’s media coverage is also often laced with outdated stereotypes and patronizing attitudes. There’s a tendency to focus on the “softness” or “feminine” nature of the women who play, instead of respecting them for the fierce competitors they are. Even when they achieve something remarkable, like a game-winning shot or an MVP award, the language used to describe them often reinforces antiquated views on women in sports.

It’s a sad truth that many WNBA athletes have had to go above and beyond to be recognized for their talents. Whether it’s through dominating college basketball or competing overseas, the media fails to give them the respect they deserve. And when they finally break through into the national spotlight, it’s often in the context of being “the best woman” rather than just “the best.”

For years, the media has sold the idea that women’s basketball is somehow less “entertaining” than men’s basketball, yet players like Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, and Maya Moore have proven time and again that women’s basketball can provide high-stakes, dramatic, and intense competition that any basketball fan can appreciate.

Lack of Investment in Coverage

The failure to provide the WNBA with adequate media coverage is also reflected in the lack of financial investment the league receives from major media outlets. While the NBA benefits from massive television deals and widespread media support, the WNBA has often struggled to secure lucrative broadcasting contracts. Instead, they’re often relegated to streaming services or minor network channels, making it harder for casual fans to access the games.

It’s evident that the league’s lack of visibility on major networks contributes to its struggles to grow its fanbase. While it’s commendable that the WNBA has been able to forge partnerships with platforms like ESPN, there’s still a noticeable lack of consistency and depth in the media coverage. This needs to change if the WNBA is ever going to achieve the mainstream success and recognition that the athletes deserve.

What Needs to Change?

If the WNBA is going to continue to grow and succeed, the media landscape must change. First and foremost, the league needs more consistent and in-depth coverage. This isn’t just about adding more games to TV schedules; it’s about shifting the narrative from seeing women’s basketball as a niche product to recognizing it as a legitimate, exciting professional league.

Media outlets need to focus more on the athletes themselves—their skills, their drive, and their performances. Instead of turning every story into a drama or scandal, journalists should be reporting on the hard work, the incredible plays, and the impressive statistics that players like A’ja Wilson or Sabrina Ionescu have accumulated. The media should celebrate these athletes for what they bring to the court and recognize that their talent deserves as much respect and attention as any male athlete.

Additionally, more investment into broadcasting deals is essential. The WNBA needs the financial backing and promotional effort from networks like ESPN, TNT, and others, in order to compete for viewership in the same way that the NBA does. Until this happens, the media will continue to fail the players, and the fans, who want to see women’s basketball thrive.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The WNBA is a league full of incredible athletes who put in just as much work, dedication, and sacrifice as their male counterparts. The way they are covered by the media, however, is a reflection of the larger societal challenges that women in sports continue to face. The media’s neglect, focus on irrelevant drama, and outdated stereotypes have created a toxic environment that undermines the growth of the league.

It’s time for a change. The WNBA deserves better. The players deserve better. And most importantly, the fans deserve better. Until the media begins treating the WNBA with the respect it deserves, it will remain a glaring embarrassment in the world of sports media. But the athletes will continue to rise above, pushing the league forward with their passion, talent, and resilience—no matter how little coverage they get.