Caitlin Clark Opens Up on Injury Pressure as WNBA Viewership Dips
Indianapolis, IN – In a candid discussion on the Bird’s Eye View with Sue Bird podcast, Indiana Fever guard caitlin Clark revealed the internal struggle she faces as she continues her recovery from a groin injury that has sidelined her for nine consecutive games and 18 total this season. The rookie sensation, who played every game of her final college season at Iowa, expressed a deep sense of obligation to fans and teammates despite the physical setback.
Clark’s absence is acutely felt, not just by the Fever (8-5 with Clark, 9-9 without), but across the entire WNBA, which has experienced a critically important surge in popularity as her arrival. The league’s viewership numbers underscore her impact: the 2024 WNBA all-Star Game drew 2.19 million viewers, a 36% decrease from the 3.44 million who tuned in last year when Clark participated, according to Front Office Sports reporter Ryan Glasspiegel.
This season marks a pivotal moment for the WNBA, which is currently in its 28th season. Prior to Clark’s draft,the league averaged 451,000 viewers per game in 2023,according to Nielsen.Early data suggests Clark’s presence is driving substantial growth, with the fever’s games consistently ranking among the most-watched WNBA broadcasts. A recent June 7th game against the Connecticut sun, for example, drew an average of 1.3 million viewers on ESPN, marking the most-watched WNBA game in 25 years.
However, Clark’s performance upon her return is also a key consideration. Currently averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists, her shooting percentages are below her collegiate standards – 36.7% from the field and 27.9% from three-point range. These numbers are attributed to the lingering effects of her injury and the difficulty of establishing a consistent rhythm.
The pressure to return extends beyond statistical performance. Clark acknowledged the financial investment fans make to attend games, stating, “People spend so much time, and money, and resources to come and watch you play.”
Adding a personal dimension to her recovery, Clark shared advice from her mother, Anne Nizzi-Clark, following her most recent injury. “you’ve taken so much time for everybody else, you have to take time for yourself now,” her mother reportedly texted, prompting Clark to prioritize her own well-being.
The Indiana Fever are currently navigating a challenging stretch,having lost their last two games after a five-game winning streak. As Clark continues her rehabilitation, the WNBA and its fans await her return, hoping for both her full recovery and a continuation of the league’s upward trajectory.