Caitlin Clark‘s transition to the WNBA has been nothing short of historic, and anticipation for her rookie season with the Indiana Fever continues to build.
When she returned to Carver-Hawkeye Arena for her preseason debut, over 15,000 fans packed the venue to catch a glimpse of her professional debut. The impact extended beyond the court as ESPN reported that the broadcast drew 1.3 million viewers, making it the third most-watched NBA or WNBA game ever-trailing only matchups featuring LeBron James.
Excitement surrounding Clark has become a league-wide phenomenon. The Fever have already sold out multiple away games, and they’ve even started selling a shirt listing every stop on what’s quickly become a nationwide roadshow.
One of the most anticipated games? A June 19 clash against the Golden State Valkyries at San Francisco’s Chase Center.
However, that marquee matchup may be in jeopardy.
Warriors’ NBA Finals hopes could shift WNBA schedule
According to Colin Salao of Front Office Sports, if the Golden State Warriors make it to the NBA Finals, Game 6 would land on the same date-June 19-as the Valkyries vs. Fever showdown.
While there are no direct schedule overlaps currently, both teams share Chase Center, and the venue conflict could force the WNBA fixture to be rescheduled.
“The two teams play at the Chase Center, but they don’t currently have any overlapping games scheduled,” Salao wrote. “However, there may be a conflict if the Warriors make the NBA Finals, as Game 6 is set for June 19-the same day the Valkyries host the Fever.”
Of course, that scenario still hinges on the Warriors mounting a deep playoff run. With Stephen Curry nursing a hamstring injury and the team needing 11 more wins to reach the Finals, the odds are stacked against them. FanDuel currently lists Golden State at +3000-the longest shot among contenders to make the Finals.
Still, for Valkyries fans eager to witness Clark’s visit and the Fever’s tour in full force, there’s hope that Curry and Jimmy Butler don’t derail the WNBA’s summer centerpiece.
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