The WNBA’s expansion and broadcasting deals were two key factors in the WNBPA’s demands for a massive pay increase and greater revenue sharing. Part of this credit goes to Caitlin Clark, who was the driving force behind the spike. New York Liberty Owner Joe Tsai also credited Clark for quadrupling WNBA viewership and revenue.
Seeing the numbers, many would expect many young athletes to choose basketball as their sport. But in a recent episode of ‘ A Touch More’, Sue Bird put forward shocking numbers that contradict the assumption.
Sue Bird Fears Youth Basketball Crisis Despite Caitlin Clark’s Popularity
The former Seattle star is now the managing director of USA Basketball. The post allows her to get an overview of activities across the country and to focus on youth in developing the next generation.
But she revealed that a recent study found a nationwide drop in participation in girls’ high school basketball to 21% since 2000. Ironically, the WNBA started a few years before the data was considered, but looking at the popularity and fan following of players like Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark, the drop itself is very shocking.
Bird explained that soccer, flag football, and volleyball now provide more opportunities and options to fans, which impacted the number of young fans following
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While CC’s impact and influence are on the commercial side of the league, she also encourages youngsters to take part in sport through her charity. Moreover, she recently showed interest in a high school game too.
Caitlin Clark Attends High School Games
Though the Fever guard was working hard on her fitness, she was not having any competitive action. Instead of playing in one, the playmaker decided to attend one with an intriguing Indiana faceoff on the cards. She attended the Pike vs Mount Vernon game, which went to double overtime.
I’m watching Pike play Mount Vernon tonight just as a casual observer. Caitlin Clark is here. pic.twitter.com/sfM74HoQ5R
— John Herrick (@JHerrickOnAir) February 11, 2026
On the professional front, the CBA discussions are slowly taking shape with the league providing its latest proposal to the WNBPA. Though the players’ association once again rejected the offer, Clark will be in action for Team USA in March.