Sheryl Swoopes on WNBA: 'I Say It's a Movement'
At the 2025 NCAA Women’s Final Four, WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes described the evolution of women’s basketball as a movement marked by increased viewership, historic media deals, and expanded opportunities.
Published on April 12, 2025
WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes described the evolution of women’s basketball as a powerful movement during the 2025 NCAA Women’s Final Four. Reflecting on the league’s journey since the 1990s, she pointed to historic broadcasting deals, the formation of new teams, and a significant surge in viewership as key indicators of progress.
Swoopes also acknowledged the impact of alternative leagues like Athletes Unlimited and Unrivaled, which have introduced competitive salaries and intensified calls for pay equity within the WNBA. Her comments, made on April 11, 2025, underscore a broader shift in the sport as increasing commercial investment and media recognition continue to transform both collegiate and professional women’s basketball.