The WNBA's rapid growth has sparked a debate about the accessibility of its games. Season ticket holders are grappling with soaring prices, which some fear will price them out of the league. The Washington Mystics, one of the WNBA's pleasant surprises this season, were among the first teams to send out renewal notices for the 2027 season. A season ticket holder since 2021 expressed sticker shock over a 48% jump in their ticket cost, from $6,907.50 to $10,200. This price hike is nearly 250% higher than last year's cost. The Phoenix Mercury, who have struggled this year after making the finals in 2025, have also sent out renewal offers. One season ticket holder reported a 60% increase in courtside seats, from $9,100 to $14,600 per ticket. The WNBA's expanded regular-season schedule, with each team playing 25 home games, is cited as a culprit for the price hike. However, more inventory does not account for the entire price increase. The Mystics are increasing ticket prices per game by around 22 to 50%, based on a pricing chart viewed by Front Office Sports. The sentiment among some fans is that price increases are a positive sign of the team and league's health. However, there is a concern that the increased prices have and will continue to drive out loyal fans. The WNBA has long been more accessible than its counterparts in U.S. pro sports, but as it grows in popularity, this may be changing. The Mystics have the third-highest average resale ticket price this season, behind the Atlanta Dream and the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever. The WNBA's growth and the sudden success of the Mystics, who were supposed to be in an extended rebuild, have exacerbated the problem. The Mystics' arena, which only fits 4,200 fans, is already at capacity. Other teams that play in arenas that fit under 10,000 fans are the Dream, Connecticut Sun, and Dallas Wings. The Sun are moving to Houston to play at the Toyota Center, and the Wings announced they will play the 2027 season at the American Airlines Center. The Mystics' fans would welcome a move to Capital One Arena, which has a larger capacity, but some fans believe improved perks at CareFirst would suffice. The desire for a more premium experience is common among season ticket holders, who want player engagement, better quality food, and to feel valued. The WNBA's growth has led to increased demand and higher prices, but there is a risk that this will drive out loyal fans and create a situation where courtside seats are dominated by corporations rather than real fans.
