In what can only be described as a disaster, the WNBA’s ratings have nosedived following Caitlin Clark’s sudden departure from the playoffs. Once soaring at a staggering 1.8 million viewers, the first game without Clark saw a jaw-dropping collapse to just 161,000 viewers. With arena attendance falling and merchandise sales in freefall, the league is scrambling to recover from this unexpected blow.

Fans are asking the big question: Has the WNBA put too many eggs in one basket? Clark’s magnetic personality and jaw-dropping performances have carried the league, and without her, it’s like the thrill has disappeared. Even worse, critics are pointing fingers at the WNBA’s marketing strategy, which has relied too heavily on Clark, neglecting the league’s other stars.

“The WNBA may have shot itself in the foot,” said one analyst, “They had a goldmine in Clark and barely used her to promote the league. Now, without her, they’re facing a massive ratings crisis.”

Clark’s popularity skyrocketed the WNBA, boosting merchandise sales by 450% and driving record attendance. But now that she’s gone, empty seats are becoming the norm, and fans are tuning out. It’s a wake-up call for the league that now faces the daunting task of maintaining interest without their biggest star.

Experts argue the WNBA must diversify its star power, showcasing more players and building storylines that keep fans hooked—before the league’s future takes a serious hit.

Could this be the tipping point that forces the WNBA to reevaluate its strategy, or will they bounce back from this Caitlin Clark-sized gap? Only time will tell.