Women’s sports leaders discuss industry growth at the RISE event

Figures across professional women’s sports gathered Thursday at the RISE event to discuss the industry's ongoing expansion and business development. Speakers including Kerri Walsh Jennings, Sabrina Ionescu, and NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman addressed the transition toward professionalization and increased infrastructure investment. The discussion covered topics ranging from new stadium projects for the North Carolina Courage and Gotham FC to the WNBPA's approach to revenue sharing in upcoming labor negotiations. Ionescu noted the potential for WNBA growth in international markets, while NWSL leadership pointed to a 77% increase in team valuations over the past two years. Additional focus was placed on the November debut of the WTGL, which aims to provide equal facilities for athletes. The event highlighted a shift where professional female athletes are increasingly able to prioritize their athletic careers as their primary focus.

• 9:38 PMYahoo Sports — Key Women’s Sports Figures Predict Future of Growing Biz at RISE