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Despite the WNBA’s growth in fanbase, facilities, and resources, online critics and trolls persist in criticizing women’s sports.
These critics often resort to sexist and uninformed arguments, like claiming “no one cares” or pointing out the lack of dunks in the WNBA.
In their book Slaying the Trolls, authors David Berri and Nefertiti Walker debunk these arguments and provide evidence to counter negative discourse surrounding women’s sports online.
The book also addresses the phenomenon of ‘mansplanations’ in women’s basketball, exemplified by instances like former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal suggesting lowering the rims in the WNBA for more dunking.
Berri and Walker’s research highlights that factors like star power, market appeal, and winning games drive revenue and fan interest, rather than just dunking ability.
For instance, WNBA star Steph Curry’s success without relying on dunking emphasizes the importance of skill and performance in attracting fans to games.
The Appetite for Winning
Recent events, like the historic WNBA game at TD Garden, where the Connecticut Sun played in front of a sellout crowd, highlight the importance of winning in attracting fans.
Connecticut’s success, despite not having a ‘media superstar’, demonstrates that winning games draws crowds and loyalty from fans, rather than just individual star power.
The average attendance at Connecticut’s home games and the sellout at TD Garden signify the growing support for the WNBA and debunk claims of lack of fan interest.
Moving forward, the WNBA aims to secure a fairer share of league revenue for players through new collective bargaining agreements, while the NBA must continue to invest in the growth and success of the women’s league.
Critics often question the profitability of the WNBA, but with expanding revenue projections and new deals on the horizon, the narrative is shifting towards recognizing the business potential and value of women’s sports.
Berri and Walker challenge the misconceptions surrounding the WNBA’s financial viability and emphasize the importance of valuing women’s sports as profitable investments rather than charity cases.
Despite the challenges faced by women’s sports fans, research like that found in Slaying the Trolls offers a roadmap for navigating and addressing unwanted criticisms and stereotypes.
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