Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has expressed her pride in the incredible growth of women’s basketball, particularly after the NCAA women’s championship game surpassed the viewership of the men’s Final Four. Clark, known for her pivotal role in elevating the game’s popularity, reflected on how this milestone put things into perspective. Throughout her career, she has been central to the rising recognition of women’s basketball, both in college and in the WNBA, becoming a standout figure as a point guard and inspiring countless fans.
Looking back at her remarkable journey, Clark pointed out how extraordinary it was to witness 18.9 million people tuning in to watch Iowa’s championship game against LSU in 2023. She shared with ESPN how difficult it was to grasp the significance of such a large audience until she compared it to other major sporting events, such as the NCAA’s men’s basketball tournament. “When you see that number next to iconic events, like a college football game or The Masters, you realize the magnitude,” she said. “We outdrew the men’s Final Four.” This statement was a clear acknowledgment of how far women’s basketball has come, with viewership numbers now competing with some of the country’s largest sports spectacles.
Clark’s influence continued in her first year with the WNBA, after being drafted as the No. 1 overall pick by the Indiana Fever. She not only lived up to the hype but also set numerous records during her debut season, including breaking the record for most assists in a single season. Her success did not go unnoticed, as the WNBA saw a significant boost in viewership, with 54 million unique viewers watching games in 2024—a testament to the growing interest in women’s professional basketball. The rise in ratings was mirrored by a surge in fan attendance at games, reaching 2.4 million—an impressive figure for the league, the highest in two decades.
In reflecting on her incredible rise, Clark shared her gratitude for the teammates and mentors who supported her transition to the professional game. “A year ago, I was just finishing my senior year in college. It’s crazy how quickly things change,” she noted. “Now, looking back, I can truly appreciate the greatness of my college season.” Clark’s humility and appreciation for her team show just how grounded she remains despite her newfound stardom.
Despite all her success, Clark emphasized that she still finds immense joy in the game, particularly when she sees the impact her plays have on young fans. “Whether it’s 15 seconds or 5 seconds, those moments are meaningful to young people, and seeing their excitement before games is something I never take for granted,” she said. This reflection shows her understanding of the larger role she plays as a role model for the next generation of athletes. For Clark, every moment on the court is an opportunity to inspire, and she’s committed to preserving that sense of joy and connection with her fans.
