Does WNBA Get Enough Love?

Next Saturday, July 19th, the WNBA will hold the first ever outdoor professional basketball game. It will feature the New York Liberty hosting the Indiana Fever in the outdoor game at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Hopefully the weather permits this historic event, but a great game may be played in pouring rain too. Previously the Liberty held the first ever game on the stage of Radio City Music Hall, which was a very interesting concept. Fans were seated down below the stage to watch exciting back and forth basketball, as if it were a Broadway show.

The question continually is raised with the WNBA: Should the league call it quits due to lower interest and attendance levels than its bigger brother, the NBA?

In my opinion, basketball's basketball, no matter where it's played or who might be playing. It's a game involving fundamentals, strategies and skills that many truly gifted athletes can hone. If you're a fan of the game, you can enjoy it on many levels, whether it's pros in the NBA, college hoops, high school and even the Women's version, the WNBA. There's been some impressive feats achieved in the league such as the Houston Comets and their early title dynasty of four straight. Lisa Leslie and Candace Parker have been two pro womens players to dunk in games, also historic.

Those who argue women aren't as athletic as males are discounting athletics. Watching certain players use their skills in the WNBA can be just as impressive as the NBA. For example, Steve Nash isn't a dunker, but he can definitely pass, shoot and run an offense well. The same goes for names like Sue Bird of the Seattle Storm, or Becky Hammons of the San Antonio Silver Stars. There's also outstanding offensive players such as Diana Tarausi of the Phoenix Mercury, and Alaina Beard of the Washington Mystics.

What it really comes down to is a fan's personal preference. If you truly love the game, you'll love it on all levels and be able to recognize the great performances that occur on basketball courts everywhere.