- The WNBA has never made a profit since its inception in 1997, despite experiencing increased popularity and revenue.
- The NBA still subsidizes the WNBA.
- The WNBA generally loses around $10 million per year.
Each team across the league is looking to build the most competitive roster to maximise their nightly WNBA game odds.
For that to happen, both the league and its franchises must generate sufficient revenue to cover increasing expenses and drive long-term growth.
So, has the WNBA ever made a profit? Let’s take a closer look.
Has the WNBA Ever Made a Profit?
The WNBA has never made a profit since its inception in 1997, despite experiencing increased popularity and revenue.
The league did see its first “cash-flow positive” team in 2010 with the Connecticut Sun. Three teams were profitable in 2011, and six in 2013.
The WNBA brought in roughly $200 million in revenue in 2024, up from $102 million in 2019.
An 11-year, $2.2 billion media rights deal that begins in 2026 could bring the WNBA an additional $100 million in revenue and push the league into profitability for the first time in its history.
Does the NBA Still Subsidize the WNBA?
Yes, the NBA still subsidizes the WNBA.
The NBA owns approximately 60% of the WNBA and receives about 40% of the WNBA’s revenue.
The NBA has covered key costs, such as league operations, marketing, broadcasting infrastructure, and administrative staff.
The WNBA is working towards self-sufficiency, raising $75 million in private capital from Nike, Condoleezza Rice, and Joe Tsai in 2022, securing a lucrative media rights deal, expanding the league by adding new teams, increasing merchandise and ticket sales, and bringing in more fans.
How Much Money Does the WNBA Lose Per Year?
The WNBA generally loses around $10 million per year, but lost $40 million in 2024 despite league revenues growing to over $200 million.
Part of the reason why the loss was bigger in 2024 was due to the $25 million cost of charter flights.
The losses have totaled at least $280 million since 1997.
In addition to the 40% of the revenue the WNBA gives the NBA, they allocate 20% to other investors, and 40% goes to players and teams.
Players make just 9.3% of WNBA revenue, far less than the 50% revenue share NBA players receive.
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