How Are TikTok and YouTube Creating NCAA Women’s Basketball Celebrities?
The world of women’s basketball has long been plagued by a lack of visibility and recognition. However, a new generation of social media influencers is changing the game. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube are providing a stage for women’s basketball players to showcase their talents, connect with fans, and build a personal brand. Not only can players increase their connection with fans, but social media can also be another way for them to earn more money. However, if one decides not to be an influencer, it won’t destroy their career, as social media is a way to heighten it.
TikTok, with its short-form video format, allows athletes to showcase their skills, personalities, and behind-the-scenes moments to millions of viewers worldwide. Many players post highlight reels, training routines, and personal stories that resonate with fans and create viral content. For instance, some players have gained millions of followers just by posting clips of their skills, best moments, or even game-winning shots. The platform's algorithm amplifies engaging content, enabling lesser-known athletes to break into the mainstream almost overnight. Even individuals who are in high school and consistently post can be seen by Division I coaches and others, creating a name for themselves.
On the other hand, YouTube has full-length videos, as well as YouTube Shorts. The YouTube videos complement players by offering a space for longer-form content, such as game highlights, interviews, and documentary-style videos that delve deeper into players’ lives and careers. Fans can follow their favorite stars through vlogs, training sessions, and motivational stories, building a loyal community around these athletes. Coaches and teams also utilize YouTube to promote their programs, further elevating players’ profiles.
The rise of these platforms has democratized fame in NCAA women’s basketball. In our current society, you don’t always need to be from the top schools to be known. Even if you are a part of a lower division one program, that does not mean that you will not be known. A specific individual who could have a social media career outside of Basketball is Kiya Dorroh. Dorroh is a six-foot-one senior forward for the Hampton University Pirates. Currently, Dorros has over 28,000 followers on her TikTok account, with her most recent video receiving 29,000 views. Now, some may say that this is a small number, yet in the 2022-2023 season, Hampton’s women’s basketball averaged roughly 481 fans per game. This demonstrates that you don’t have to be a top contender in order to have a fan base; you just have to post and be seen.
Regarding the future of lower NCAA Division I basketball athletes, you don’t have to be in the top. You just have to consistently stay active in order to build a fan base. By consistently posting content, there will always be the possibility of going viral and becoming bigger than the program you are in. For Dorroh, a person who may not be known widely, there is still a high probability of pursuing a life as an influencer after her basketball career, as long as she is consistent. If Dorroh decides not to consistently post, she will not have as big a fan base as she currently has. All it takes is a click of a button, and with that click, it could change anyone’s life.
