US – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has claimed the top spot as the fastest-growing brand in the US in Morning Consult’s Fastest Growing Brands of 2024 report, marking a landmark year for women’s basketball. This surge in popularity highlights the growing influence of sports on consumer culture, particularly among younger, socially engaged audiences.
Women’s basketball had a breakout year in 2024, with the WNBA’s rising visibility fuelled by heightened media coverage, sports superstars and increasing social media engagement. This momentum underlines a broader trend in which sports, especially those championing inclusivity and representation, are reshaping brand loyalty and consumer behaviours.
Other significant brands on the list include Microsoft’s AI tool Copilot and Google’s Gemini, reflecting the enduring prominence of artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, social media trends continue to steer consumer interest towards categories like fizzy drinks, confectionery and fast fashion.
The report also notes a disparity in growth among income brackets, however, with lower-income households experiencing slower increases in brand consideration, reflecting the ongoing effects of inflation.
The WNBA’s rise signals a burgeoning intersection of sports, culture and commerce. We have previously analysed this market in our Game-Changers: The Future of Sports Fandom and Future Forecast 2025: Sports, Health & Wellness macrotrend reports.
Strategic opportunity
Consider partnering with women athletes from various disciplines – not just basketball – to co-create and endorse collections. Prioritise athletes who represent empowerment, diversity and inclusivity, reinforcing the cultural shift towards celebrating women in sports