WNBA Star Caitlin Clark Drives Over $875M Economic Impact in 2024

Caitlin Clark has transformed the WNBA's economic landscape, with finance experts estimating she accounted for 26.5% of the league's economic activity in 2024, spanning merchandise, ticket sales, and television revenue. Projections suggest Clark could drive nearly $1 billion in economic impact for the league this year, with some estimates even suggesting that figure could be surpassed if current trends continue. Her popularity has resulted in record-setting attendance, top-selling merchandise, and an unprecedented number of nationally televised games for her team, the Indiana Fever. The WNBA is leveraging this momentum through league expansion—adding new teams in Golden State, Toronto, and Portland—and a new 11-year, $2.2 billion media rights deal that will significantly boost revenue. While Clark is the primary catalyst for the league's surge, the combination of star power, market expansion, and lucrative broadcasting agreements positions the WNBA for sustained growth. Clark is widely viewed as the face of the league and perhaps its most valuable asset ever, ushering in a new era for women's basketball.