WASHINGTON — The numbers don't lie. Women's sports have seen a sensational rise in television ratings. The star power of the newest draft class of the WNBA, including No. 1 pick Caitlin Clark, is drawing more eyes to the game.
Here at home, our Washington Mystics are getting ready to start the 2024 season.
The Mystics and No. 6 overall draft pick Aaliyah Edwards begin their season at home at Entertainment and Sports Arena on Tuesday against the New York Liberty. The game has already sold out.
"Who isn't excited to play in front of a sold out crowd?" Washington Mystics forward Emily Engstler said.
Washington Mystics VP of Marketing Dana Campbell told WUSA9, "It should be a really fun and exciting summer and we can't wait to tipoff the ball tonight."
The excitement surrounding WNBA elevated this year because of hugely popular college players such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who are now playing with the pros. Their star power now sprinkling magic in the District.
"I think this past six months has elevated the women's game in general and I think because of what's been going on with the college level, we're going to get the same level at the 'W'," Engstler added.
Due to high demand, the Mystics game against the Indian fever with Clark on June 7 has been moved to Capital One Arena. On Tuesday, Monumental Sports say it's doing the same thing for the game against Chicago Sky on June 6, the team Reese plays for.
Monumental Sports CEO Ted Leonsis says that's the first time they've had two WNBA games back-to-back.
Nick Raines, the Mystics Director of Game Presentation, said fans can expect a different experience.
"We have a very special show open where we'll debut all our new videos for the year, and we have a special set up for all of our players to run out of so you'll get to meet the entire team tonight," Raines said. "Now that we have all these new fans coming to us, we want to show this is where you want to be."
Washington finished 9-11 in Eastern Conference action and 12-8 at home during the 2023-24 season. The Mystics allowed opponents to score 80.9 points per game and shoot 43.6% from the field last season.
With more eyes on the game, Raines said he's excited.
"It's not very different [from previous seasons], but it's always exciting to have more friends," Raines said.
While tickets are sold out for Tuesday and Sunday, tickets can be purchased online here.
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