Key Takeaways

• Caitlin Clark is a “generational talent” and “the most popular athlete in America,” according to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.

• Engelbert says the league must balance Clark’s spotlight with promotion of other superstars such as A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier.

• WNBA viewership is up triple‑digits across demographics, driven in part by social‑media‑savvy college stars entering the league.

• The 2025 WNBA season tips off Friday (Lynx vs. Wings); Clark’s Indiana Fever debut Saturday vs. the Chicago Sky.

Clark’s Magnetism and the “Balance” Challenge

On The Bill Simmons Podcast, Engelbert credited the second‑year guard with bringing “tens of millions of new viewers” to women’s basketball but stressed that no league can thrive on one name alone.

“Adam [Silver] and I talk all the time about this; she’s the most popular athlete in America,” Engelbert said. “But you do want to balance it … promoting stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier.”

Engelbert also referenced USC sensation JuJu Watkins’ ACL injury as a reminder that over‑reliance on a single headliner is risky.

Explosive Growth: Triple‑Digit Viewership Gains

• TV and streaming audiences have soared “triple digits” year‑over‑year, Engelbert noted.

• Clark’s crossover appeal has spilled into other sports: her LPGA pro‑am appearance drew record buzz.

• NIL deals and massive college followings give newcomers like Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers and Kiki Iriafen ready‑made fan bases.

“Sustain and Gain”: The 2025 Strategy

Engelbert’s mantra for this season:

1. Sustain 2024’s historic momentum.

2. Gain even more new viewers with marquee matchups and broader storytelling around the league’s depth of talent.

Opening‑Week Schedule Highlights

• Friday, May 16: Minnesota Lynx vs. Dallas Wings — season opener

• Saturday, May 17: Indiana Fever vs. Chicago Sky — Clark’s sophomore‑year debut