The WNBA has been experiencing unprecedented growth over the past few years, with rising stars, record-breaking viewership, and increased media coverage. But in a bold and controversial statement, Brittney Griner, one of the league’s most recognized players, recently declared that the WNBA will surpass the NFL in popularity within the next five years—and she credits none other than Angel Reese for leading the charge.

Griner’s prediction has sparked heated debates across sports media, with some applauding her optimism while others dismiss it as wishful thinking. But what exactly makes Angel Reese the key to this massive transformation? Could the WNBA truly overtake the NFL, the most dominant sports league in the United States?

Let’s break down Griner’s reasoning, Reese’s impact, and what needs to happen for the WNBA to reach new heights.

Brittney Griner has always been a strong advocate for women’s basketball, using her platform to push for greater recognition and respect for the WNBA. In a recent interview, the Phoenix Mercury star made her most ambitious claim yet, stating:

“The WNBA is going to be bigger than the NFL in five years. I’m telling you, the way things are changing, the way we’re getting attention now, it’s only going up from here. And Angel Reese is leading the way.”

Griner’s statement immediately sent shockwaves through the sports community, with fans and analysts weighing in on whether such a dramatic shift in popularity is even possible.

While surpassing the NFL may seem far-fetched to some, Griner’s confidence is based on real changes happening within the WNBA, and much of that momentum is tied directly to the new generation of players like Angel Reese.

What Makes Angel Reese So Important?

At just 22 years old, Angel Reese has already become one of the most recognizable names in basketball. From leading LSU to a national championship to bringing a fiery and unapologetic personality to the WNBA, Reese has captivated audiences like few before her.

Reasons Angel Reese Is Driving the WNBA’s Popularity:

Social Media Superstar

Reese’s influence extends beyond basketball. She is a marketing powerhouse, with millions of followers across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

Her viral moments—whether celebrating wins, engaging in rivalries, or making bold statements—keep fans engaged even when she’s off the court.

A True Rivalry with Caitlin Clark

The Reese vs. Caitlin Clark storyline has been one of the biggest narratives in basketball, with fans choosing sides and tuning in for every matchup.

The WNBA hasn’t seen a rivalry like this in years, and it’s bringing record-breaking attention to the league.

Authenticity and Star Power

Reese is outspoken, confident, and refuses to fit into traditional molds.

She embraces her identity as a strong Black woman, speaks up on social issues, and isn’t afraid to challenge critics.

Bridging the Gap Between Basketball and Pop Culture

Unlike past WNBA stars, Reese is connecting with audiences outside of traditional sports fans.

Her endorsement deals, social media engagement, and crossover appeal bring in new demographics of fans.

With all of these factors in play, Brittney Griner’s claim doesn’t seem as impossible as it first sounded.

While the NFL remains the biggest sports league in America, Griner’s vision for the WNBA isn’t entirely unrealistic.

For the WNBA to reach that level, several key things need to happen:

1. Continued Growth in Viewership & Media Coverage

2023 WNBA games shattered viewership records, largely thanks to rookies like Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark.

If these trends continue upward, the league could become a prime-time powerhouse.

2. Higher Salaries to Keep Star Players

One of the WNBA’s biggest challenges is keeping top talent from leaving to play overseas, where they can earn significantly more money.

Increased sponsorships,  TV deals, and revenue-sharing could help bridge the salary gap.

3. Expanding the League with New Teams

The WNBA currently has 12 teams, compared to the 32-team NFL.

Expansion into new markets could help reach more fans and increase exposure.

4. Stronger Marketing and Branding

The NBA became a global sensation by promoting individual superstars like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Steph Curry.

The WNBA must continue to highlight stars like Reese, Clark, and others to drive engagement.

5. More Investment from the NBA & Corporate Sponsors

The NBA has provided some financial support, but a bigger push from major investors could accelerate the WNBA’s growth.

More corporate sponsorships, celebrity endorsements, and mainstream media presence are key to elevating the league’s status.

If these factors align, the WNBA could grow exponentially in the next five years, making Griner’s bold prediction less of a fantasy and more of a possible reality.

Of course, not everyone agrees with Griner’s statement. Some sports analysts argue that the NFL’s dominance is too strong for any other league to surpass it in such a short time.

Reasons Critics Doubt Griner’s Claim:

The NFL’s audience is MASSIVE.

With over 100 million viewers for the Super Bowl, the NFL’s reach is unmatched.

Football is deeply ingrained in American culture.

Sundays in America are practically dedicated to NFL games, making it a national tradition.

The WNBA is still in its early stages of mass popularity.

While the WNBA is growing, it’s still miles behind in terms of  TV ratings, sponsorships, and revenue.

Despite these valid arguments, even critics acknowledge that the WNBA is growing faster than ever before—and that Angel Reese is at the forefront of that movement.

While Brittney Griner’s claim that the WNBA will surpass the NFL in five years may seem ambitious, it highlights an important truth—the WNBA is evolving, and its growth shouldn’t be underestimated.

Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, and the league’s new generation of stars are driving unprecedented attention to women’s basketball, and with the right investments and continued fan support, the WNBA could become a major player in global sports entertainment.

So, will the WNBA actually overtake the NFL? Probably not in five years—but the fact that this conversation is happening proves that women’s basketball is entering a whole new era of relevance, excitement, and cultural impact.