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The WNBA has seen significant growth in recent years, thanks in large part to the emergence of rookie stars like Angel Reese, Cameron Brink, and Caitlin Clark. Clark, in particular, has been credited with increasing viewership and breaking attendance records for the league. It appears that the WNBA is looking to capitalize on her popularity with a major initiative.
According to Tom Friend’s article in the Sport Business Journal, the WNBA plans to schedule an Indiana Fever game overseas to leverage Clark’s high Q rating. The Q score is a measure of popularity and appeal in the United States. Privately, the league aims to position the Fever as “America’s Team” in its marketing efforts.
During Clark’s games, the Indiana Fever saw an average attendance of 16,084 fans, nearly double the average for non-Fever games. The Fever set a franchise record with an average regular-season attendance of 17,036 fans per game, totaling 340,715 fans.
Caitlin Clark and Indiana Fever could potentially play overseas (IMAGO)
The Los Angeles Times reported that Clark’s regular-season games attracted an average of 1.2 million viewers, a 200% increase compared to games without her. Additionally, Clark’s presence led to a 300% rise in WNBA TV viewership, with Fever games contributing 45% to the league’s total broadcast value.
see also
What makes the NBA and WNBA different? A detailed look at their key distinctions
Has the WNBA played overseas before?
Yes, the WNBA has previously held games outside the United States. The league hosted the 2023 and 2024 WNBA Canada Games in Toronto and Edmonton, as well as a preseason game between the Atlanta Dream and the Great Britain Women’s National Team in Manchester in 2011. Additionally, a preseason game took place in Monterrey, Mexico in 2004.
Caitlin Clark’s popularity also boosts her net worth
Despite her modest WNBA salary, Caitlin Clark has seen significant financial success. Sportico’s list of highest-paid female athletes ranked Clark at No. 10, with earnings of $11.1 million in 2024, behind only Simone Biles. Clark’s income primarily comes from endorsements, including a lucrative eight-year deal with Nike worth $3.5 million annually, as well as partnerships with brands like Gatorade, Gainbridge, and State Farm Insurance.
see also
Caitlin Clark’s Net Worth: How Much Will the Iowa Star Make in The WNBA?
Caitlin Clark’s success on and off the court is a testament to her growing popularity and marketability in the world of women’s basketball.
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