The numbers don’t lie — when Caitlin Clark isn’t on the court, the WNBA feels it. In a season that has seen unprecedented viewership highs, largely driven by the Indiana Fever rookie, Clark’s absence in just one nationally televised game caused a massive drop in ratings. And while the league is pushing multiple stars, the truth is becoming clearer: fans are tuning in for Caitlin, not necessarily for others.

Clark’s Absence, Ratings Collapse

When Clark was benched for rest ahead of a Fever game earlier this week, TV ratings dropped significantly — nearly 35-50% lower than previous games featuring her. The league, which has been riding a wave of momentum since Clark’s debut, immediately felt the difference.

“She is the engine of this WNBA boom,” one TV executive told a sports outlet anonymously. “The league has great talent, but the ratings spike? That’s Caitlin Clark.”

Angel Reese: Great Hype, But Not the Draw

Despite media coverage pushing a “Clark vs. Reese” rivalry and the rising profile of Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese, viewership data suggests she doesn’t move the needle in the same way. While Reese has become a strong personality in the league and has growing support, she hasn’t yet proven to be a consistent ratings driver on her own.

Many fans online were quick to point this out. One viral tweet read:

“No Caitlin = No viewers. WNBA is learning real quick who’s actually bringing in the crowd.”

The Clark Effect Is Real

Clark’s presence not only lifts viewership — it changes the atmosphere. Arena sellouts, jersey sales, media coverage, and even opposing teams’ ticket revenues have all skyrocketed when the Fever are in town. That level of impact hasn’t been seen in the league in decades, if ever.

Despite the league’s efforts to highlight multiple stars, it’s undeniable: Caitlin Clark is the headline. Fans are tuning in for her deep threes, her fire, her IQ — and her ability to make every possession feel like must-see TV.

Can the WNBA Sustain This?

The question now isn’t whether Clark is a star — it’s how the league can balance her meteoric rise while still building up its broader talent base. Viewership can’t rely on one player forever, but right now, the league knows exactly where the spotlight is shining.

And if she’s not on the floor? The numbers show: people just aren’t watching like they used to.