Not since the league’s inaugural season of 1997 has the WNBA generated this much buzz. With the regular season beginning Tuesday, the anticipated debuts of rookies Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Cameron Brink and other college stars has already led the league to new heights. Just last week, for example, it was announced that players would travel on full-time charter flights this season for the first time.
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There is another edge to the sword of fame, and the WNBA is rightfully taking the players’ security more seriously this season than last.
Monday, Ben Pickman of The Athletic reported that teams are taking unprecedented measures to deal with the anticipated onslaught of fan interest:
According to a person with knowledge of the Chicago Sky’s plans, after not traveling with security last season, the franchise will travel with security this season. Every WNBA team will travel with security personnel on its commercial flights, for as long as they remain the standard. There has also been additional security around the Sky at practices, which take place at a public facility in suburban Chicago. Sachs Recreation Center wrote in an email, obtained by The Athletic, to its community members that beginning April 29, two police officers would be onsite during all Sky practices for the remainder of the season.
While the violent crime rates in some areas might conceivably raise certain teams’ concerns above others, that does not appear to be the driving factor here. The Indiana Fever will be traveling with multiple full-time security members on all road trips, and multiple members of the security team will also be present at ancillary team events in the community, according to The Athletic.
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 9: Las Vegas Aces' Guard Jackie Young (C) and forward A'ja Wilson (L) arrive for a ceremony to celebrate the WNBA Champ… | Andrew Harnik/Getty Images/Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
In a statement provided to ESPN, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said Monday, “Ensuring the safety and security of WNBA players is paramount. The league’s security policies and arena standards were developed in consultation with experienced security professionals, and the league hires dedicated security representatives in each WNBA team market to work in coordination with the team security personnel.”
The accessibility of the WNBA’s stars has always been among the league’s best selling points to fans. Having trained security guards or law enforcement personnel mediate that experience is an unfortunate but necessary cost of fame. Keeping players safe is not only the humane thing to do, it’s in the best interests of the WNBA’s business.
While Clark has generated plenty of attention following her historic college career at the University of Iowa, WNBA teams everywhere are experiencing a surge in interest. Teams from Dallas to Atlanta have reported sellouts, necessitating the added security.
For the most part, the added security presence at WNBA games and events will hopefully be out of sight and out of mind for most fans. The on-court product will take the rightful center of attention as the league enters into a season of historic interest.
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