|
ESPN delivers second most-watched WNBA Draft ever
2026 WNBA Draft averages 1.50 million viewers, up 20% year-over-year
ESPN today announced that the 2026 WNBA Draft delivered the second most-watched WNBA Draft ever, averaging 1.50 million viewers, according to Nielsen Big Data + Panel. The audience marks a 20% increase over last year's Draft and trails only the record-setting 2024 event (2.45 million viewers).
The 2026 WNBA Draft peaked at 1.79 million viewers from 7:45-7:59 p.m. ET, as fans tuned in to see the league's next generation of stars take the stage.
WNBA Countdown also saw year-over-year growth, averaging 692,000 viewers, up 7% versus 2025.
Across television on Monday night, the 2026 WNBA Draft ranked as the most-viewed program among Adults 18-34 and Males 25-54. On cable, the telecast was the No. 1 program of the night among People Under 50, Adults 18-34, Adults 18-49, Adults 25-54, Males 18-34, Males 18-49 and Males 25-54.
All of ESPN. All in One Place.
ESPN offers its full suite of networks and services directly to fans on the ESPN App with an ESPN Unlimited subscription, providing more choice, flexibility and access to all of ESPN, including more than 47,000 live events per year, on-demand replays, industry-leading studio shows and original programming, and more. The ESPN App gives fans a unique viewing experience that includes multiview and synchronized two-screen viewing options, swipe-able shortform vertical video and a personalized SportsCenter For You, as well as integrated game stats, ESPN Fantasy sports, betting odds and information from DraftKings, sports merchandise, and more. These features are available to all fans who watch on the ESPN App on mobile and connected TV devices, whether they subscribe directly or through a pay TV package from certain providers. Bundling options available for fans include a Disney+, Hulu, ESPN offering that provides a one-of-a-kind streaming package combining sports with branded and general entertainment. For more visit stream.espn.com.
-30-
|