5 reasons why WNBA needs a G-League

It is fair to say that the WNBA has come of age, as evidenced by its growth last season. Some fans might attribute this surge in popularity to the impact of Caitlin Clark, the reigning Rookie of the Year.

Furthermore, while its big brother, the NBA, witnessed changes when its popularity increased, the WNBA was left to decide how to meet the growing demand. This led to a fan post on X (formerly Twitter) suggesting the league should possibly get its own G League.

Here are five reasons why the WNBA needs a G League:

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Top 5 reasons the WNBA needs a G League

#5. Opportunities for development

A Chicago Sky player takes warm-up shots before a home basketball game (Credits: Getty)

The WNBA did a great job in its last draft, as players like Clark and Chicago Sky's Angel Reese showcased their talents night after night on the court. Aliyah Boston— the No. 1 pick for Indiana Fever in the 2023 WNBA draft — is another example of a successful find for the league.

For the league to develop more talents from its current breed of players, a G League-like structure will be the right fit where players can move to their primary team's affiliate team to earn their stripes. This will boost the amount of developed players a WNBA team has.

#4. Increased competitiveness

Arike Ogunbowale #24 of the Dallas Wings in action against New York Liberty (Credits: Getty)

One major criticism of the WNBA is that fans believe the league is not competitive enough, as there is a noticeable gap between the top teams and the rest of the league.

While Caitlin Clark has got the Indiana Fever to fight toe-to-toe with traditional big teams, not every franchise has such a once-in-a-generation kind of player. Having a G League will ensure that each team has a stronger pool of players with game experience to pick from.

#3. Injury recovery and rehabilitation

Kate Martin #20 of the Las Vegas Aces goes down with an injury against the Chicago Sky (Credits: Getty)

The G League, if created, could be a space where injured players could prioritize a move to seek minutes to aid their recovery. Hence, WNBA teams won't have to risk the safety of their returning players.

Los Angeles Sparks Cameron Brink, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury in June, could benefit from the G League and return to match fitness at her own pace.

#2. Scouting and talent search

Los Angeles Sparks forward Cameron Brink (22) attempts a shot against Las Vegas Aces (Credits: Getty)

Houston Rockets Jalen Green proves you can forfeit college basketball and still make it to the big leagues. With the growing popularity of the WNBA, more and more females will want to compete and not all might succeed in the rigorous world of the NCAAW.

The next A'ja Wilson or Sabrina Ionescu might be denied that chance. And what better way for them to be able to fast-track their development through a league similar to the NBA's G League?

#1. Growth and sustainability

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) takes instructions before a game against the Connecticut Sun (Credits: Getty)

This is the most important reason, with reports emerging that the WNBA will lose $40 million. And while the NBA has a significant say in the changes made, it has to find ways to make it sustainable.

Having a G League might be one of the many solutions. With a G League, the WNBA will increase the competition's appeal to both foreign and local talents and have the opportunity to create more revenue sources for the growing league.

What do you think about this proposal? Kindly share your thoughts on this in the comments section.