Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham Comments on Caitlin Clark’s Influence

As the WNBA gains popularity, Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham shared her views on fellow player Caitlin Clark. Cunningham highlighted the significant changes since Clark’s entry into the league three seasons ago. She discussed these thoughts on her new podcast, No Hesitation, featuring basketball trainer Drew Hanlan.

Hanlan praised Clark for boosting WNBA’s viewership and global presence. He compared her impact to Michael Jordan’s influence on the NBA and Tiger Woods’ effect on golf. “I’ll tell you what, for the WNBA, Caitlin Clark is a key reason for the growth,” Hanlan stated to Cunningham.

Cunningham responded affirmatively, emphasizing the obvious role Clark has played in the game’s globalization, while acknowledging past greats. “It’s obvious, and that doesn’t mean there wasn’t greatness before her,” Cunningham told Hanlan.

Caitlin Clark was drafted first in the WNBA in 2024 following her exceptional college career at Iowa, where she set records surpassing those of Pistol “Pete” Maravich. Her impact in the WNBA continued with record-setting performances.

Hanlan provided data on the league’s growth. He noted a dramatic increase in attendance, with the Fever averaging over 15,000 attendees per game this season, compared to just over 2,000 five years ago. Viewership has also surged, averaging 1.3 million viewers this season, a fivefold increase from five years ago. Overall league attendance jumped from 2,600 to over 11,000 per game.

The WNBA’s expansion is not solely attributed to Clark. New stars like Dallas Wings’ Paige Bueckers and Minnesota Lynx’s Olivia Miles have significantly contributed to the league’s recent success. These players are set to participate in the WNBA Playoffs, promising high viewership as they aim for their first championship.