UConn vs South Carolina women’s basketball averages 489,000 viewers

NCAA women’s basketball viewership is continuing its upward trajectory, as women’s sports continue to draw larger and larger audiences.

Monday’s Battle 4 Atlantis Women’s Tournament matchup between No. 1 South Carolina and No. 2 UConn drew an average of 489,000. The audience peaked at nearly 600,000 viewers, despite the game being played at midday on a Monday.

South Carolina came from behind to win the game 73-57, with UConn coach Geno Auriemma criticizing his team’s mentality after the loss.

With the tournament numbers, South Carolina has now played ESPN’s two most-watched games of the season, the first being their season opener against NC State.

South Carolina coach Dawn Staley was vocal on Twitter, saying, “Invest in WOMEN…now or be left holding the empty bag!!”

Just two weeks into the season, 2021 viewership has seen a staggering 55% increase year-over-year on ESPN’s networks.

UConn (3-1) has a rematch with the No. 1 Gamecocks (6-0) on Jan. 27 in Columbia, S.C.