Caitlin Clark’s entrance into the WNBA has marked a significant turning point for the league, exemplified by the unprecedented spike in fan engagement. The WNBA All-Star fan voting, which saw a staggering 600 percent increase from 2023 to 2024, highlights the profound impact Clark has had since joining the Indiana Fever.

In 2024, Clark topped the All-Star voting charts with 700,735 votes, a monumental leap from the previous year when no player received even 100,000 votes. Her teammate, Aliyah Boston, followed closely with 618,680 votes, and last year’s leader, A’ja Wilson, garnered 607,300 votes, reflecting a 533 percent increase. This surge in popularity is a testament to the large influence Clark have brought to the league.

Clark’s influence extends beyond the All-Star votes. The WNBA’s viewership across major networks has tripled, averaging 1.32 million fans per game. Attendance figures have also seen a remarkable 17 percent increase in the first month of the season, the best in 26 years. Additionally, merchandise sales on WNBAStore.com skyrocketed by 756 percent, underscoring the growing fan base’s enthusiasm.

The WNBA All-Stars will face the USA Olympic Women’s Basketball Team on July 20 in Phoenix, providing another platform for Clark to showcase her talents. While the fan vote accounted for half of the total All-Star selections, Clark’s absence from the Team USA roster does not diminish her role in elevating the league’s profile.

The transformative effect of Clark’s presence is a clear indication of the league’s rising tide. Her performance and popularity have not only uplifted her own career but have also significantly contributed to the broader appeal and success of the WNBA. This phenomenon aligns with the adage that a rising tide lifts all boats, as Clark’s influence continues to benefit players, teams, and the league as a whole.

In short, Caitlin Clark’s contribution to the WNBA exemplifies how a single player’s impact can ripple throughout an entire league, fostering growth, engagement, and an enduring legacy of popularity and success. 

If you’re on a WNBA roster, owner, fan, a thank you to Caitlin Clark is due.