How the Caitlin Clark Effect has taken hold ahead of first game in Toronto
The WNBA is experiencing a surge in popularity and cultural relevance, largely attributed to the arrival of star player Caitlin Clark. As the Indiana Fever prepare for a game in Toronto, the league is leveraging this momentum to expand its reach and fan base.
Why it matters
The 'Caitlin Clark effect' is driving significant economic growth and visibility for women's professional sports, signaling a shift in market demand.
TORONTO — Before Caitlin Clark’s name was called first overall in 2024, the WNBA didn’t have million-dollar contracts or 15 active teams. A league jersey in the wild was a rare sighting and accessing game broadcasts took considerable sleuthing. There was no team in Golden State, and no plan for five expansion teams in five years.
But in the three seasons since, the league has erupted as both a sport and cultural phenomenon — in part due to the eyeballs and dollar signs the league’s once-in-a-lifetime star helped harness.
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