[Spiny_Norman]

The ratings are the only data that matters to advertisers.  I don't buy that it was all due to Clark playing her last game.  The viewership numbers will definitely increase the media value of women's basketball.

In January, the NCAA and ESPN signed an 8 year agreement to broadcast the women's basketball tournament (and other non-football championships). ESPN was smart to lock in the price when they did. If the negotiation had extended beyond this year's tournament, the cost to them would likely have been much higher.

[Spiny_Norman]

The ratings are the only data that matters to advertisers.  I don't buy that it was all due to Clark playing her last game.  The viewership numbers will definitely increase the media value of women's basketball.

In January, the NCAA and ESPN signed an 8 year agreement to broadcast the women's basketball tournament (and other non-football championships). ESPN was smart to lock in the price when they did. If the negotiation had extended beyond this year's tournament, the cost to them would likely have been much higher.