- WNBA. Caitlin Clark, the only person who can help LeBron James and the Lakers according to AI
- WNBA. Angel Reese can't keep a secret and shows off her new 'weapons' that Caitlin Clark would also like to see
Caitlin Clark has taken the basketball world by storm, redefining what it means to be a transformative athlete.
From leading Iowa to an NCAA Championship to propelling the Indiana Fever to their first playoffs since 2016, the No. 1 draft pick has captivated fans. While she initially planned for a quiet offseason, her influence on and off the court suggests she's destined for an even bigger stage-internationally.
According to Sports Business Journal writer Tom Friend, the WNBA is planning to capitalize on Clark's unparalleled popularity by scheduling an Indiana Fever game overseas. Dubbed "America's Team" by insiders, the Fever's rising prominence is largely attributed to Clark's impact.
Clark has already proven her global appeal. At a November pro-am golf event hosted by Annika Sorenstam, she drew massive crowds reminiscent of Arnold Palmer's heyday. Fans lined up for autographs on everything from hats to bare skin, reinforcing her status as a generational star.
With record-setting attendance at Gainbridge Fieldhouse (17,035 fans) and an average TV viewership of 1.178 million per game, Clark's influence is undeniable. Her presence overseas could mark a pivotal moment in the WNBA's efforts to globalize, with rumored as the Fever's first international stop.
Caitlin Clark and the NBA's declining viewership
While Clark's rise is a boon for the WNBA, some believe it's contributing to the NBA's challenges. Jason Whitlock noted that NBA Finals viewership has steadily declined, from 17.65 million in 2018 to just 11.3 million in 2024. He argues that the league lacks compelling narratives to compete with Clark's magnetic presence.
"Caitlin Clark has actually hurt the NBA," Whitlock claimed, pointing to her dominance as a reason fans are shifting their attention to women's basketball.
Meanwhile, the NBA struggles to replace the excitement once generated by stars like Zion Williamson and Ja Morant.
Clark's star power isn't just elevating the WNBA; it's reshaping the basketball landscape. As her team prepares for a potential international debut, the Fever symbolize a new era of women's basketball-one that commands attention on a global scale.
Whether or not Clark has affected the NBA, her influence has undeniably helped the WNBA achieve long-overdue recognition. With the league poised to go international, Caitlin Clark stands ready to lead the way, proving that basketball's future isn't confined to the men's game.