• WNBA is increasing the availability of preseason games via national TV, cable, broadcast TV, and streaming due to growing fan interest.
• The Minnesota Lynx's preseason game against the Chicago Sky will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network North, a first for the local outlet.
• Increased accessibility is attributed to the popularity of new players like Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, and the success of leagues like Unrivaled.

The WNBA is responding to a surge in popularity by making preseason games more accessible to fans. This includes national TV broadcasts, streaming options, and local coverage, such as the Minnesota Lynx's game against the Chicago Sky being broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network North. This move represents a significant improvement from previous years when preseason games were not widely available, signaling a shift in how the league caters to its growing fanbase.

• What: The WNBA is expanding the accessibility of preseason games through national TV, cable, streaming, and local broadcasts.
• Who: Key figures include Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, Napheesa Collier, Breanna Stewart, Cheryl Reeve, and Alli Schneider. Teams mentioned are the Minnesota Lynx, Chicago Sky, Indiana Fever, Dallas Wings, and New York Liberty.
• When: The Lynx-Sky game will be broadcast on Tuesday night. The WNBA Finals took place last year. Alli Schneider streamed the Lynx preseason game last year.
• Where: The Lynx-Sky game will be in Chicago. The WNBA Finals Game 5 took place at Barclays Center. The Unrivaled league is mentioned without a specific location.

The WNBA's decision to increase the availability of preseason games reflects a growing recognition of the league's rising popularity. The influence of star players like Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers is evident, as their games are prominently featured in national broadcasts. The success of ventures like the Unrivaled league, which prioritizes athlete treatment and compensation, is also shaping the WNBA's approach. This shift towards greater accessibility has the potential to further expand the league's fanbase and solidify its position in the sports landscape.

I thought there would be a real understanding of the players that were coming into the league and their popularity. I think it’s unfortunate we didn’t see it last year, no question about that. But we’re glad it’s here now.

It was an example of what women’s sports could be. In how to treat athletes, how to pay athletes, what the experience should be. Now that we’ve experienced that, I think we’ll take that to our teams and into CBA negotiations.

The WNBA is making strides in increasing the accessibility of preseason games, signaling a proactive approach to cater to its expanding fanbase. Driven by the popularity of rising stars and the success of alternative leagues like Unrivaled, the league is adapting to meet the growing demand for women's basketball. While there's still room for improvement, particularly in ensuring broader representation in national broadcasts, the increased availability of games represents a positive step forward for the WNBA.