Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are not only two rising stars shining brightly on the court, but they are also phenomena that have sparked tremendous attention and revenue for the WNBA. This year, the Rookie of the Year award should be shared between them, not only for their groundbreaking achievements on the court but also for their impact off it. Since joining the league, they have become magnets for fans, driving the WNBA to new heights of popularity.
Many might say that the WNBA was already on a growth trajectory before their arrival, but it’s undeniable that Clark and Reese have taken the league to a whole new level. Thanks to their fierce rivalry dating back to their college days, the duo brought with them a massive fanbase and unprecedented media attention. This has helped elevate the league to a level not seen since its inaugural season.
Their influence is evident in the attendance figures. With Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever has climbed from 11th in average attendance in 2023 to the top spot, with an average of 16,978 fans per game. Reese, for her part, has helped the Chicago Sky secure second place in attendance, thanks to her 4.1 million Instagram followers driving fans to the games.
It’s not just about their performance on the court; both Clark and Reese have shattered incredible records. Clark has set a new single-game assist record and is on the verge of breaking the league’s single-season assist record. Meanwhile, Reese has surpassed legends like Candace Parker and Sylvia Fowles in rebounds and double-doubles.
However, their impact goes beyond statistics. The importance of Clark and Reese to the WNBA lies in their ability to attract fans and generate significant attention for the league. They are not only exceptional athletes but also icons who are transforming the face of the WNBA.
