Caitlin Clark’s Return Ignites Record WNBA Viewership and Fever Upset Over Liberty

Indianapolis, IN – June 17, 2025: Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark’s highly anticipated return from a quad injury has sparked a surge in WNBA interest, culminating in record-breaking television viewership and renewed excitement around women’s basketball. On June 14, Clark delivered a stellar performance, scoring 32 points—including seven three-pointers—and leading the Fever to a 102-88 victory over the previously undefeated New York Liberty. Her explosive play, highlighted by a 38-second stretch with three deep three-pointers, electrified the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Clark’s comeback game averaged 2.2 million viewers on ABC, peaking at 2.8 million, making it the third most-watched WNBA game ever on the network—a 76% increase over last season’s average for WNBA games on ABC. The league had suffered a dramatic 55% drop in TV ratings during Clark’s five-game absence, with average viewership for Fever games falling from 1.81 million to 847,000. Her return immediately reversed this trend, reaffirming her status as a transformative figure for the league.

The Fever’s upset win also snapped the Liberty’s 10-game unbeaten streak, with Clark contributing 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 9 assists, while Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu scored a season-high 34 points in the loss. Clark now features in two of the top three most-watched WNBA games on ABC this season, underscoring her impact on the sport’s visibility and popularity.

Beyond the court, Clark’s influence continues to drive unprecedented engagement with women’s basketball. Her trading cards rank among the top 10 most-collected in the sport—a first for a female athlete—and her presence has fueled discussions about league expansion and increased investment. Despite ongoing controversies and debates about her popularity, Clark remains focused on her game, earning praise from WNBA legend Rebecca Lobo for her “unlike anything seen before” performance.

As the Indiana Fever prepare to face the Connecticut Sun, Clark’s return stands as a pivotal moment for the WNBA, drawing new fans and setting the stage for continued growth and recognition of the league.