The debate over who is the bigger star between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark could go on for years, but recent events suggest a clear fan favorite. Both players have had a significant impact on women's basketball, drawing large crowds and capturing the attention of fans nationwide.
Fan Attendance Comparison
On a recent Friday night, the Indiana Fever faced off against the Washington Mystics at Capital One Arena. The night before, the Chicago Sky played the same Mystics team at the same venue. The difference in attendance was striking and telling.
On Thursday night, 10,000 fans came out to see Angel Reese and the Sky take on the Mystics. However, the following night saw over 20,000 fans turn up to watch Caitlin Clark and the Fever – 20,333 to be exact.
This comparison is not entirely fair as Reese played on a Thursday and Clark on a Friday, but it does highlight the considerable draw of these two athletes.
Historical Context of WNBA Attendance Records
ESPN noted the significance of Friday night’s crowd, pointing out that it was the largest for the WNBA since 22,067 attended Game 5 of the 2007 WNBA Finals between Phoenix and Detroit at the Palace of Auburn Hills.
It was also the largest regular-season crowd since 20,674 attended the Mystics-Cleveland Rockers game on July 21, 1999, at the same arena, then known as the MCI Center.
The Mystics wisely moved their home games from the much smaller Entertainment and Sports Arena, with a capacity of just 4,200, anticipating that the draw of stars like Reese and Clark would exceed such a small venue.
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Impact on the WNBA
The presence of Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark has undeniably boosted game attendance, showcasing the power of star players in driving fan engagement. Their influence extends beyond mere numbers; they are pivotal in increasing the league’s visibility and popularity.
The WNBA's decision to host games in larger arenas when featuring these players underscores their significant impact. Reese and Clark are not just athletes; they are icons bringing a new wave of enthusiasm and attention to women’s basketball.
the takeaway
In the debate between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, recent attendance figures suggest Clark might have a slight edge in drawing crowds. However, both players are vital to the growth and popularity of the WNBA. Their continued rivalry and stellar performances promise an exciting future for the league and women's sports in general.