The women's sports practice facility boom is an exciting development, but it's not without its challenges. While the construction of purpose-built facilities is a significant step forward, the issue of tenancy and control over venues remains a critical hurdle for women's professional sports teams. The WNBA, in particular, is facing a unique set of circumstances that could impact its growth and success.
One of the primary concerns is scheduling. Women's teams often find themselves at the bottom of the pecking order in major arenas, competing for prime time slots with popular concerts and men's sports events. Stacy Johns, President of the Los Angeles Sparks, highlights the importance of scheduling and date availability, noting that women's teams have historically been at a disadvantage in this area. The Sparks, for instance, are the third tenant in Crypto.com Arena, behind the Kings and Lakers, and potentially fourth if the venue's concert and entertainment business is considered.
This raises a deeper question: should the WNBA consider expanding into markets without NBA or NHL teams? In places like San Diego or Birmingham, Alabama, the WNBA team might be an arena's top priority, allowing for more control over scheduling and potentially better financial opportunities. However, this expansion strategy also presents challenges, as it may require significant investments in new facilities and infrastructure.
Another critical aspect is financial opportunities. Most leases for women's teams severely limit available sponsorship categories and premium revenue. This makes it crucial for teams to negotiate more amenable carve-outs in these areas to reach overall financial solidity. Stacy Johns emphasizes the importance of having a building GM who is willing to work with the team and provide support, but she also acknowledges that this is not a magic bullet.
The length of deals is also a significant consideration. Many women's pro teams are pursuing long-term arena and stadium leases to signal stability to their organizations, fans, and sponsors. However, these agreements can lock teams into situations that don't reflect increased franchise value within a few years. The Sparks, for instance, extended their lease in 2024 for five years, taking them to 2029. This move could provide more leverage in future negotiations, but it also raises questions about the team's long-term strategy and potential relocation.
In conclusion, the women's sports practice facility boom is a positive development, but it's not without its challenges. The issue of tenancy and control over venues remains a critical hurdle, and the WNBA is facing unique circumstances that could impact its growth and success. As the league continues to evolve, it will be essential to address these challenges and create a more sustainable and equitable environment for women's sports teams.
