Field of (WNBA) Schemes

While writing about the Red Wings arena deal, Neil DeMause of the Field of Schemes blog sets someone straight about the WNBA:

1. MikeM on July 29, 2013 at 3:33 pm said:

   And now that you mention the WNBA, I have to ask: How close is that league to folding? If that league were to announce today that is was closing up shop immediately, as of COB today, would more than 20,000 people nationwide even notice? I kind of doubt they would. Heck, if they decided to give refunds for the rest of the season, probably more than half of those 20,000 would be relieved.
2. Neil deMause on July 29, 2013 at 3:35 pm said:

   The WNBA has a small, diehard fan base. It also serves two purposes for the NBA: It’s a way to market to women (and to people who can’t afford NBA ticket prices), and it fills dates in the summer when there are no men’s games. I don’t expect to see it go anywhere anytime soon, though teams will likely keep getting shuffled around.
3. ChefJoe on July 29, 2013 at 4:20 pm said:

   With a TEAM salary cap of $900k the WNBA is a relatively cheap marketing ploy. Tons of tickets to give away as charitable contributions and a way to market “family wage” basketball and help fill out arena box suite schedules.
   
   
   
   

Sounds right on the money to me.