Caitlin Clark’s talent isn’t enough for the WNBA to compete with the NBA

The Caitlin Clark Effect took the sports world by storm, making everyone sit up and take notice of women’s basketball alongside the NBA. Despite some naysayers, the absence of the Indiana Fever rookie in the playoffs still managed to break viewership records. However, the big question remains – is the impact of one player enough to propel the league to where it aspires to be in the future?

As one CNBC host aptly put it, “The Caitlin Clark Effect was gigantic, but this was kindling that was sparking already.” It’s clear that the W has been on an upward trajectory, and the league sought to capitalize on its growing popularity with the massive 11-year media rights deal signed in July in partnership with the NBA.

However, as CNBC host Alex Sherman pointed out, “Caitlin Clark has driven the popularity of that league, but still the Finals – which did not have Caitlin Clark in it – were at a 25-year high this year. So it’s more than just her, we just really don’t know quite yet how much more.“

The media rights deal, which will see the WNBA receiving roughly $2.2 billion over the next 11 years, is a significant step forward. According to Forbes, this amounts to an average of $200 million a year. On the other hand, the NBA will receive approximately $75 million, leading Sherman to describe it as a “pittance.” He explained, “In other terms, you could say it’s a sixfold increase over the previous deal. But still, that’s a big delta between 77 and 2.”

The surge in women’s basketball popularity

The deal, set to kick off in 2026 and extend through the 2036 season, leaves room for re-evaluation in three years, potentially allowing the W to increase its value. Under the current contract, more than 125 regular season and playoff games will be broadcasted nationally each year among the partners. Disney platforms will air 25 regular-season games, NBC will broadcast 50, and Prime Video will show 30, as reported by The AP.

This recent surge in interest and investment is indicative of the growing recognition and support for women’s basketball. It’s not just about one player; it’s about the collective effort to elevate the sport to new heights. As Sherman noted, “It’s more than just her, we just really don’t know quite yet how much more.”

The future looks promising for the WNBA, with potential for even greater growth and opportunities on the horizon. The league has made significant strides, and with continued momentum, there’s no telling how much more it can achieve in the coming years.