Caitlin Clark continues to make waves in the sports world, cementing her position as the most influential female athlete in a new ranking by Complex. The Indiana Fever star secured the top spot on the list, surpassing notable names like Angel Reese, Coco Gauff, and Simone Biles. Clark’s meteoric rise in popularity has not only elevated her own status but has also significantly impacted the WNBA, drawing massive viewership and attendance figures.
Complex’s rankings highlight the transformative effect Clark has had on the league. Her presence alone has led to a staggering 105% increase in overall WNBA attendance, with her road games boosting opponent home attendance by 87%. The Fever saw record-breaking numbers in 2024, drawing a league-high 186,000 fans, marking a 265% increase from the previous year. Clark’s influence has extended beyond just fans in the stands—her rookie debut caused a 200% surge in WNBA viewership, and her jersey sales skyrocketed by an unprecedented 1,193% year-over-year.
Her impact isn’t limited to the court; Clark’s presence is shaping the economy as well. Experts estimate that she has contributed roughly $36 million to Indianapolis’ local economy and at least $40 million to the WNBA. The Fever, which once struggled with attendance, now boasts a league-leading average of 17,000 fans per game, largely due to Clark’s drawing power. Her growing influence accounts for 26.6% of league-wide activity, demonstrating her role as a game-changer for women’s basketball.
Economic research further emphasizes Clark’s influence, with estimates from The Common Sense Institute Iowa suggesting that she has contributed between $14.4 million and $52.3 million to Iowa’s gross domestic product. This financial impact translates into consumer spending of approximately $82.5 million, underscoring the far-reaching effect of her presence in professional basketball. In response to this unprecedented success, plans have been unveiled for a new $78 million training center in downtown Indianapolis. The facility, set to open in two years, will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including two full-size courts, strength and conditioning facilities, and media production studios.
As Clark continues to break barriers and redefine the landscape of women’s basketball, her influence shows no signs of slowing down. Whether on the court or in the business realm of sports, she has already earned a place among the greats, ensuring that her name will remain at the forefront of conversations in the WNBA and beyond.
