In a bold and attention-grabbing statement, WNBA star Brittney Griner has predicted that women’s basketball is on the verge of an explosive rise, thanks to the influence of one young player. Griner recently declared, “The W will be bigger than the NFL in 5 years thanks to Angel Reese.” Her words have sparked discussions across the sports world, not only about the potential of Angel Reese but also about the rapidly growing future of the WNBA.
Brittney Griner’s Vision for the WNBA
Griner, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most recognizable names in women’s basketball, has long championed the league’s growth and visibility. Her latest statement reflects the momentum building within the WNBA as it pushes into a new era of popularity and investment. According to Griner, the catalyst for this change is Angel Reese, a breakout star whose impact extends far beyond the court.
Reese, known for her dynamic playing style, competitive spirit, and strong social media presence, has quickly risen to stardom since entering the league. Her charisma and connection with fans have positioned her as more than just an athlete—she has become a cultural figure who is attracting attention from basketball enthusiasts and mainstream audiences alike.
The Angel Reese Effect
Reese’s arrival in the WNBA has coincided with major boosts in viewership, merchandise sales, and online engagement. Her performances on the court are electric, and her outspoken personality off the court has only fueled her popularity. Fans see her as authentic, relatable, and unapologetically herself—a combination that makes her a powerful ambassador for women’s basketball.
Griner herself has praised Reese’s influence, saying, “Angel brings a new energy and confidence to the game. She’s inspiring a whole generation of young athletes and proving that women’s basketball deserves to be in the spotlight.” This endorsement highlights how star power, combined with personality and cultural relevance, can push women’s sports to new heights.
Can the WNBA Really Surpass the NFL?
Griner’s prediction that the WNBA could rival the NFL in just five years might sound ambitious, especially since the NFL is currently the most-watched and wealthiest sports league in the United States. Football dominates television ratings, ticket sales, and merchandise revenue, making it a tough benchmark for any league to surpass.
However, the WNBA is experiencing unprecedented growth. Expanded media coverage, increased marketing efforts, and rising investment from sponsors are all contributing to the league’s momentum. Meanwhile, the league’s decision to highlight marketable stars like Reese, Caitlin Clark, and A’ja Wilson is drawing new audiences who may not have followed women’s basketball before.
Industry experts acknowledge that overtaking the NFL may be more of a long-term vision than a short-term reality, but they agree that the WNBA’s trajectory is pointed upward. Initiatives aimed at expanding the league, raising player salaries, and building stronger fan experiences are laying the foundation for future success.
The Road Ahead
Griner’s statement has added fuel to the conversation about the potential of women’s sports and the possibilities that lie ahead. Whether or not the WNBA surpasses the NFL in five years, the idea underscores how much progress women’s basketball has made and how bright its future looks with stars like Angel Reese leading the charge.
As fans, analysts, and players continue to debate the likelihood of Griner’s prediction, one thing is certain: the WNBA is undergoing a powerful transformation. With its mix of athletic excellence, strong personalities, and rising cultural influence, the league is poised to reach new levels of recognition. Reese, in particular, represents a new generation of athletes who are reshaping what it means to be a sports superstar.
Whether Griner’s bold prediction becomes reality remains to be seen, but her confidence speaks volumes. The WNBA is no longer just fighting for recognition—it’s stepping into a future where it could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with America’s biggest sports leagues.
