The Indiana Fever won arguably the most important lottery in WNBA history in 2024. It meant drafting Caitlin Clark number one overall and completely altering the entire franchise. Clark had a massive following, but nobody predicted this. The Fever were by far the most popular team in the W as the rookie made first-team All-WNBA.
Clark changed the entire game. There has been a massive spike in popularity and attention. It would not have been possible without the impressive on-court product from the Fever’s superstar and others. Fans tuned in to see number 22, but they stayed because the games were compelling. Clark’s instant success may have negative future implications, but it was a needed boost that was long overdue for the Fever and the entire W.
Just how popular is the superstar? How does she compare against other top athletes? Clark is a massive draw, but fans may be surprised just how big. Sports Pro released the most marketable athletes, and CC was in the top five.
Caitlin Clark transcends basketball as 4th most marketable athlete
Clark sold out arenas across the country and has massive drawing power, but it was surprising to see her finish so high. The 22-year-old topped Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and every NBA player but one. Only Simone Biles, Vinicius Junior, and LeBron James ranked higher than Clark. Being the second-most marketable basketball player in the world is massive. The NBA and WNBA are flush with talent, but only King James surpasses the Fever’s star on this list.
Fans can expect to see a lot more Caitlin Clark as her popularity continues to increase. She is under contract with Nike and should have a signature shoe in the works. There will be more sponsors and commercials. Clark is just getting started and her popularity will grow with her game. The W has never seen these levels of notoriety, but it only goes up from here.
Caitlin Clark is converting tons of fans, including celebrities like Darius Rucker. The excitement is not slowing down, and the Fever’s point guard is still years away from her peak. With the accolades will come even more popularity. Love her or hate her, everyone knows the Fever’s star. That may not be true about the other top talents, but it will soon be.
Caitlin Clark is enjoying her offseason and working on her golf game. Expect the 22-year-old to take another step in the 2025 season as the Indiana Fever attempt to leap into title contention. Does it happen? Stay tuned to see what upgrades the franchise can make this offseason and all the latest on the Fever.