Study: Caitlin Clark creates a 'Taylor Swift effect' for WNBA social media views
A new study shows WNBA social media views surged to nearly 2 billion in 2024 thanks to the Caitlin Clark effect.
The WNBA's popularity surged in 2024, with social media views skyrocketing from 373 million to nearly 2 billion. Dr. Ryan Brewer, an associate professor at Indiana University Columbus, attributes this dramatic increase to Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, the league's 2024 draft picks. Brewer described the 436% surge in views as a "quantum leap."
Clark's influence on social media is unparalleled, drawing between 20 million to 45 million viral views on TikTok, X, and Instagram for her game highlights, compared to the average of three million to five million for a game without her. This level of engagement is 800% higher than the typical WNBA game. Clark's impact extends beyond social media, as demonstrated by the Las Vegas Aces' Game 3 playoff win, which drew an average of 2.25 million viewers, the second most-watched WNBA first-round playoff game ever.
Traditional television networks have adjusted their schedules to prioritize Fever matchups due to Clark's popularity. By 2026, all 44 of the Fever's regular-season games were nationally broadcast across major networks. The article highlights how Clark's talent and unique playing style have captivated audiences, akin to the sensation surrounding Taylor Swift.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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