The 28thWNBA season wraps up tomorrow, marking an end to a historic year. Since the WNBA Draft on April 15th, which was the most-watched draft in league history with 2.4 million viewers, it was clear that this season would be one for the books.
Much of the season’s success is attributed to Caitlin Clark, the number one draft pick, who has been the key driver behind record-breaking viewership, merchandise sales, and fan engagement.
Clark was the most-voted player for the All-Star game, which also became the most-watched in history. The “Clark effect” has been a major success, so much so that the WNBA recently announced an expansion team in Portland, making it the league’s 15th franchise.
Caitlin Clark’s Impact on the Court
Not only has Clark shattered records in terms of sales and viewership, but she has also broken or tied multiple rookie, season, and all-time records on the court during her rookie season. Over the course of 39 games, her leadership has grown alongside her teammates, most notably in their last game. During a recent Indiana Fever timeout, fans noticed Clark seemingly taking over as coach, raising questions about who is really calling the shots-her or head coach Christie Sides, judge by yourself.
Video can be seen here
The two have had their moments of tension throughout the season, as Clark navigated the challenges of her first year as a pro. Earlier in the season, when the Fever started 1-8, fans criticized Sides for not bringing out the best in Clark. However, the team has found its rhythm since returning from the Olympic break. They recently secured their 20th win of the season, clinching a playoff spot for the first time since 2016. A win in their final game would give them their 21st victory, the most since 2012.
Fever’s Final Game
As the regular season ends tomorrow, the Indiana Fever (20-19) have already secured the 6th seed and will likely face the Connecticut Sun (27-12)in the playoffs, the first team Caitlin Clark played against in her professional career. In their final matchup against the Washington Mystics (13-26), Clark has the chance to set another record. With 120 three-pointers made this season, she needs just nine more to surpass the 128 that Sabrina Ionescu set last year. If she hits all nine, it would also be the most 3-pointers made by a rookie in a game, breaking her own record of seven, which she set against the Mystics months ago.
