Caitlin Clark Shines as Fever Defeats Sky in Most-Watched WNBA Game in 23 Years

The Caitlin Clark effect is transforming the WNBA.

Rookie sensation Caitlin Clark led the Indiana Fever to a 91-83 victory over the Chicago Sky on Sunday, delivering a team-high 23 points and nine assists. The highly anticipated matchup between Clark and fellow rookie Angel Reese attracted massive attention—drawing an average of 2.25 million viewers on CBS and peaking at nearly 3 million, making it the most-watched WNBA game in 23 years.

The game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse wasn’t without drama. Reese was assessed a flagrant-1 foul after hitting Clark in the head with her arm—a moment that fueled the game’s intensity and social media buzz. Despite a rough performance earlier against Atlanta, where Clark recorded just seven points with six assists and seven turnovers, she bounced back impressively.

WNBA Sees Record Growth in 2024 Season

Clark’s star power is helping the league reach new heights. The WNBA announced that May 2024 was the highest-attended opening month in 26 years and marked the most-watched season start across all broadcasting platforms.

Social media engagement has also surged. According to the WNBA, four of the five top-performing social moments this season have featured rookies Clark, Reese, Cameron Brink (Los Angeles Sparks), or Kate Martin (Las Vegas Aces).

A New Era for Women’s Basketball

“The demand is there, and women’s sports is a valuable investment,” said WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison. “We’re encouraged by growing engagement across all our verticals, especially as we welcome new and diverse audiences into our fandom.”

Sunday’s clash between Clark and Reese not only highlighted the league’s top young talent but also reinforced the unprecedented momentum surrounding the WNBA in 2024.