WNBA Teams Face Financial Fallout After Scheduling Changes to Capitalize on Caitlin Clark’s Popularity — Before Her Injury

🕒 May 27, 2025 | 🗞️ By: Ha Le
📍New York, NY

The WNBA’s rapid response to capitalize on rookie sensation Caitlin Clark’s rising stardom may now come at a significant financial cost after a recent injury sidelined the Indiana Fever guard, casting doubt on upcoming high-demand matchups.

In an unprecedented move earlier this season, several rival WNBA franchises lobbied the league to reschedule their home games against the Fever to larger venues — a strategic attempt to boost attendance and revenue by riding the wave of “Clark-mania.” The Indiana Fever, led by NCAA all-time scoring leader Caitlin Clark, have become a box office magnet, with tickets in some markets selling out within hours and secondary market prices soaring.

However, just days before some of these marquee games, Clark suffered a minor injury (reported as a hip contusion), forcing her to miss upcoming appearances, including games that had been heavily marketed around her presence.

Millions at Stake

Franchises such as the New York Liberty, Washington Mystics, and Las Vegas Aces had already committed substantial investments — including venue changes to NBA-sized arenas, additional staffing, and large-scale promotional campaigns centered around Clark’s participation. Initial projections estimated millions in ticket, merch, and concession revenue.

But now, with Clark benched, analysts say attendance may drop by as much as 30-40%, with refund requests and last-minute cancellations already emerging in some markets.

“We built our marketing strategy around Caitlin Clark’s appearance,” one anonymous WNBA executive told The Athletic. “This isn’t just about tickets — it’s sponsorship activations, merchandise partnerships, national broadcast slots. If she’s not on the court, we could see a ripple effect that hits revenue hard.”

A Double-Edged Sword of Popularity

Caitlin Clark’s entry into the WNBA has undeniably transformed interest in the league. TV ratings have surged, social media mentions of the WNBA have reached record highs, and the Indiana Fever — a team that won just nine games last season — now ranks among the top in merchandise sales.

Yet, critics warn that the league may be leaning too heavily on a single figure, risking overexposure and structural imbalance. Some coaches have even voiced concern over the “Caitlin Clark effect”, arguing that too much pressure and expectation has been placed on a rookie still adjusting to the professional level.

“Caitlin is a phenomenal talent, but she’s one player. The league must be careful not to stake its financial future on the health and availability of any single athlete,” said WNBA analyst Monica McNutt during a recent broadcast.

What Comes Next?

Clark’s injury is not considered season-ending, and team officials have indicated she may return within the week. However, the financial impact of her temporary absence may push the WNBA to reconsider how games are scheduled and promoted, especially when tied so tightly to individual stars.

Meanwhile, fans are expressing mixed reactions. Some say they feel misled after buying premium-priced tickets under the assumption that Clark would be playing, while others acknowledge that injuries are simply part of the game.

In a statement issued Monday, the WNBA clarified:

“While we are proud of the attention Caitlin Clark has brought to our league, the WNBA remains committed to highlighting the incredible talent and depth across all 12 teams. Injuries are unfortunate, but they do not diminish the quality of play or the value of every athlete on the court.”

📌 Related Reads

Caitlin Clark’s Rise: The Rookie Who Changed WNBA Economics
Indiana Fever Star Injured: How Long Will Clark Be Out?
Why Rival Teams Moved Venues for Fever Games — And What That Means Now