Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark wrapped up her WNBA rookie season with several remarkable records. Beyond her standout statistical performances, she set new milestones, including the WNBA’s single-season assists record and the rookie scoring record. Additionally, Clark contributed to breaking records for both viewership and game attendance. Under her influence, Indiana led the league in attendance, shattering the WNBA’s all-time record. ESPN noted on Friday that Clark’s impact was a major factor in the surge of interest, as the Fever set a new home attendance record with 340,715 fans, surpassing the previous mark of 250,565 set by the New York Liberty in 2001.
During an interview with The Economic Club of Washington D.C., Fever President and COO Allison Barber shared a unique insight into Clark’s sportsmanship, revealing her thoughtful approach towards her WNBA peers. Barber highlighted that whenever the Fever played away games, stadiums would consistently sell out. For instance, in Atlanta, attendance jumped from the usual 3,000-4,000 fans to 17,000. After noticing these sellouts, Clark proposed to the WNBA that spot bonuses be paid to the away team players, suggesting that they should share in the additional revenue generated.
While the WNBA declined the request due to the collective bargaining agreement, Barber emphasized that Clark’s gesture reflects her character. “That’s who Caitlin Clark is—classy and amazing,” she said.
Heart of Caitlin Clark ❤️
She advocated for away team players to get spot bonuses and she never brought it up or tried to take credit for that.
Also listen till the end how impactful she is and what brands say about her.
Thank you @CaitlinClark22 pic.twitter.com/MO9qospp2J
— Hoop22 (@hoops36272) September 28, 2024
