For texture, let me say that I have been around men all my life, listening to them speak abt their businesses, other races and yes, women. The fact of the matter is, men have been the driving force for ads, revenue & decision-making for as long as I can remember. And, of course, for most of recorded history. I don't want to get into racial issues because quite honestly, that depends on where you live.
Men have purposefully dampened and held back women and minorities in this country. It is a fact. Has the NBA been supporting the WNBA? Yes. Going back to the 70's women had their own organization, AIAW, which made money. When the NCAA saw that they essentially put the lid on and the AIAW folded. Ok. Women have not been given the same equipment, sponsors and etc as men. You can say that's b/c it doesn't pay. Until the NCAA found out it did.
The only reason that Caitlin Clark & the W is getting any television time is b/c execs agree it would make them money. The same reason the WCBB was televised so much this last year. If Wilson, Nike and etc., can monetize Caitlin Clark's NIL they will do it. Not b/c she's the scoring champ, but because she's a revenue generator.
Men overall don't care abt women's sports until they have a daughter. Interesting. It took the men quite a while to make money in professional leagues. How do I know? I've spoken to a lot of old athletes who chose teaching or coaching over the professional leagues because those two specific careers paid more than a teacher. Of course, attorneys, doctors or engineers paid even more, but I digess.
Personally, I don't care if men watch women. If the product is good, spectators will come. Just as they do for Wsoccer or WVB. We just need to improve our product and stop judging women from the standard of men. I don't need to be a man nor want that for my life.