Iowa Smashes Franchise Attendance Record

DES MOINES, Iowa – The Iowa Wolves announced today it set the franchise single season attendance record this past season with Iowa averaging 4,148 fans per game over 24 games, drawing nearly 100,000 fans to Wells Fargo Arena with a total attendance of 99,552 fans. The previous single season mark was set in 2017-18, the first year of the Iowa Wolves franchise.

“These exciting attendance numbers are an absolute testament to the love of basketball our fans in the state of Iowa share for the game and the numerous partnerships we’ve been able to create to bring this next level NBA talent front and center,” said Iowa Wolves President of Business Operations Ryan Grant. “A huge thank you to all our fans, partners and employees for making this a year we will always remember.”

“This is a tremendous milestone for the Iowa Wolves, and it’s because of our incredible fans,” said Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx Chief Operating Officer Ryan Tanke. “Beyond breaking this franchise-setting record, it provides incredible momentum for next year and beyond.”

The Wolves with the assistance of their corporate partners welcomed numerous large crowds throughout the season, including two of their best crowds inside Wells Fargo Arena for Iowa State Fair Day presented by Landus and Education Day presented by IMT. In addition, Landus sponsored the Wolves’ Community Ticket Program that distributed complimentary tickets in the community and statewide.

Athene sponsored Iowa’s Read to Achieve program that helped thousands of children attend games as a reward for hitting their reading goals. Principal Financial Group and the Wolves partnered again for their Community Celebration Games series that welcomed large crowds and featured specially designed player jerseys for each game that later were auctioned off to benefit several non-profits.  

The Wolves’ single game average and total attendance were second in the NBA G League behind only the Texas Legends who drew a league-best 5,840 fans per game and 140,156 total fans.

“Des Moines has some of the most energetic basketball fans in the country and I always enjoy attending Iowa Wolves games at the Wells Fargo Arena,” said NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim. “Congratulations to Ryan Grant and the Wolves on setting a franchise-record for attendance this year.”