Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star and perhaps the most talked-about name in women’s basketball today, has finally addressed the elephant in the room: the WNBA’s noticeable viewership dip during her prolonged absence due to injury.
In a recent appearance on Sue Bird’s podcast, Clark spoke candidly about her frustration with being sidelined, the weight of fan expectations, and how she’s trying to stay connected while recovering.
Clark has missed 18 games this season due to a quad strain and lingering groin issues, which have kept her off the court for weeks. Despite the injury, she remains deeply committed to her team and fans.
“I’m going to every road game no matter what,” she said during the podcast. “Whether I’m playing or not, I want to be there and support them.” She also shared that she spends more time signing autographs and engaging with fans when injured, seeing it as an opportunity to give back even when she can’t compete.
Her absence has not gone unnoticed. Viewership for Fever games has dropped by more than 50%, from an average of 1.81 million to just 847,000 when she’s not on the court. National broadcasts across the WNBA have also taken a hit, with ratings dipping 55% during her injury stretch. This stark difference highlights the magnitude of Clark’s influence, not only as a player but as a key driver of the league’s visibility and appeal.
The WNBA’s momentum remains strong
Even with Clark out, the WNBA continues to show promising growth. Average viewership for nationally televised games is up 21% from last season, with 794,000 viewers tuning in per game. Games without the Fever have also seen a 37% increase, averaging over half a million viewers.
These numbers show that while Clark is undeniably a ratings magnet, the league’s overall trajectory remains upward.
Still, there’s no denying the “Clark Effect.” Her presence has created must-watch moments, energized fan bases, and brought new eyeballs to the sport. Yet even when she’s absent, her off-court dedication has continued to fuel fan engagement and inspire younger athletes.
Clark’s attitude remains upbeat. “It’s been cool to see people continue to show up,” she said. Her openness about the pressure and her ongoing effort to engage with fans reveal a maturity beyond her years.
As she works toward a full recovery, the Fever and the league look forward to her return, not just for her scoring, but for the energy and attention she brings to the WNBA as a whole.
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