
WNBA legend Sue Bird recently launched her “A Touch More” podcast with co-host and life partner Megan Rapinoe, the U.S. women’s soccer icon. In a recent episode, Bird discussed the remarkable viewership surrounding the WNBA playoffs, particularly noting Game 1 of the semifinals between the New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces, which drew 994,000 viewers—the most for a WNBA semifinal in 22 years. However, some fans are downplaying this achievement, pointing out that viewership has dipped since rookie sensation Caitlin Clark and her Indiana Fever were eliminated in the first round.
Bird highlighted that Indiana’s Game 2 loss to the Connecticut Sun drew an astounding 2.5 million viewers, underscoring Clark’s impact on the league. On the podcast, Bird noted that Clark’s presence generates “astronomical” numbers and admitted that games without her have lower viewership. “Caitlin brings all the elements,” Bird stated, emphasizing that while her absence has caused a dip, overall viewership still hits historic highs. Bird also mentioned that the WNBA playoffs are setting new records despite Clark’s elimination.
Clark’s influence during her rookie season has been undeniable. Her presence helped drive the WNBA to 54 million unique viewers across major networks like ESPN, NBA TV, and ABC, with ESPN alone seeing a 170% rise in viewership. Attendance at games also surged by 48%, with the WNBA drawing its highest total in 22 years. While the overall success of the league isn’t solely attributed to Clark, her debut season, where she averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds, has played a major role in revitalizing the Indiana Fever and boosting the league’s popularity.
With her stellar rookie campaign leading the Fever to their first playoff appearance since 2016, Clark has already established herself as a key figure in the league’s resurgence.