ESPN delivered one of its strongest audiences ever for the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship Game, continuing a surge in interest around the sport. The network averaged 9.9 million viewers for the title matchup, according to Nielsen and big data metrics. The broadcast peaked at 10.7 million viewers.
That performance ranks as the third-largest championship audience on ESPN since it secured exclusive rights in 1996. Only the 2024 and 2023 title games posted higher numbers, both fueled by record-setting viewership.
Year-over-year growth remained a key storyline. The 2026 championship audience increased 15% compared to last year’s game. ESPN also saw notable gains across several demographics. Women accounted for a 25% increase year over year and made up 46% of the total audience. Viewership among adults ages 18-49 rose 18%, while the 2-17 age group jumped 34%.
Additionally, ESPN expanded its presentation strategy. The Courtside at the Women’s Championship alternate telecast drew 771,000 viewers across ESPN and ESPNU. That figure added to the overall reach and reflected growing demand for alternative viewing experiences.
Meanwhile, the momentum extended beyond the championship game. The Women’s Final Four also delivered historic results for ESPN.
The national semifinals averaged 5.2 million viewers, marking the second most-watched Final Four round since ESPN began carrying the event in 1996. That figure represented a 47% increase from the previous year.
The matchup between South Carolina and UConn led the way. It averaged 5.4 million viewers and peaked at 7.7 million, ranking as the fourth most-watched Final Four game on ESPN networks. The other semifinal featuring Texas and UCLA also performed well. It averaged 5 million viewers and peaked at 5.2 million, making it the fifth most-watched semifinal on ESPN platforms. That game posted a 19% increase compared to last year.
Taken together, the results underscore the continued growth of women’s college basketball. Strong matchups, increased star power and expanded coverage options have all contributed to rising viewership.
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