The Caitlin Clark effect is in full force, and the numbers prove it.
Indiana Fever’s preseason game against Brazil at Carver-Hawkeye Arena sold out in just 36 minutes, leaving fans scrambling for tickets.
Meanwhile, Angel Reese’s homecoming game with the Chicago Sky at LSU is struggling to sell, with tickets sitting as low as $29.
This massive contrast in ticket sales has fueled debate among WNBA fans, and Angel Reese is reportedly frustrated with the lack of demand for her highly anticipated return to Baton Rouge.
Clark’s Sellout vs. Reese’s Struggle
When the Indiana Fever announced that Caitlin Clark would be playing at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, fans rushed to secure their seats.
The game, which will see Clark return to her college home in Iowa, was first offered to season ticket holders and top donors before selling out in just 36 minutes.
Meanwhile, Angel Reese’s return to LSU—where she became a national champion and one of the biggest names in women’s basketball—isn’t drawing the same level of excitement.
Fans can still buy tickets for as low as $29, and empty seats could be a reality for her homecoming game.
Reese’s Reaction & The WNBA Debate
Reports suggest that Angel Reese is not happy about the comparison, and rightfully so.
She’s one of the biggest names in women’s basketball, yet the demand for her games isn’t matching the hype surrounding Caitlin Clark.
Some believe this is just the “Clark Effect”, as the rookie sensation has completely changed the financial landscape of the WNBA, leading to record-breaking ticket sales, sponsorships, and media attention.
Others argue that Reese deserves more respect, especially considering her impact on the sport.
What This Means for the WNBA
The gap in ticket sales is fueling bigger conversations about the business side of women’s basketball.
While Clark’s arrival has boosted league revenue, many believe that other stars like Reese, A’ja Wilson, and Aliyah Boston should be receiving more attention and marketing.
For now, the numbers don’t lie—Clark’s influence on ticket sales is unmatched, while Reese is still working to prove her value in the league’s economic growth.
The real question is: Can Angel Reese close the gap, or will Caitlin Clark continue to dominate the box office?
