According to a report released on Tuesday by ESPN, the 2026 edition of the Women’s March Madness tournament achieved remarkable viewership figures, marking it as the second most-watched tournament in the network’s history. This milestone underscores the NCAA tournament’s persistent ascent in popularity and audience engagement.
The championship showdown held on Sunday, featuring UCLA against South Carolina, attracted an average of 9.9 million viewers. The broadcast reached its zenith with a peak audience of 10.7 million, positioning this final as the third most viewed women’s basketball championship ever aired on ESPN.
Escalating Popularity of Women’s College Basketball
The sustained increase in ratings for the Women’s March Madness tournament reflects a growing enthusiasm for collegiate women’s basketball nationwide. The intense competition culminating in UCLA’s victory over South Carolina not only captivated millions but also contributed to the tournament’s elevated status among televised sports events.
These impressive numbers, documented by ESPN, highlight a broader trend of expanding viewership for women’s sports, indicating a shifting landscape where female athletics receive amplified recognition and audience interest.