The WNBA’s reach and popularity were evident with the fans showering love on the stars in Puerto Rico during the FIBA World Cup qualifiers games. During the event, Caitlin Clark received the largest cheers from the fans, with the commentators also acknowledging the ‘Clark-effect’.
Other rookies like Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese also stood out, with their fan bases backing them during their debuts for the senior national basketball team. While the tournament was a massive success with Team USA closing out the tournament without a single loss, CC and Reese received yet another encouraging news.
Caitlin Clark And Angel Reese Among Complex’s Top 10 Influential Athletes
Taking the league to a new high in terms of popularity, the 2024 WNBA rookie class was a turning point in the league’s quest for outreach. Former Iowa and LSU stars were at the heart of this turnaround. Veteran forward Breanna Stewart even praised Clak and Reese for their ability to handle the pressure.
The claims got another backing as Complex released a list of the top 10 most influential Female athletes in the sport. Clark captured the third pot in the list, while Reese was the sixth player on the list.
Caitlin Clark and others are top influential female athletes now. More info: https://t.co/0DKXci63s0 pic.twitter.com/HvFRAIC1Q6
— Complex (@Complex) March 17, 2026
Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier led the list, while Paige Bueckers and A’ja Wilson also cracked into the top 10 most influential female athletes. It’s important to note that the Clark, Reese, and Bueckers spent just two seasons in the WNBA, whereas the other stars have been in the league for a longer period.
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The Fever star received an honour for her overall influence on women’s sport, and at the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, the star earned the highest individual honor for her match-winning performances.
Caitlin Clark Wins MVP Title In Her Team USA Debut
The Undefeated Team USA had a real test against the talented Spanish side in the final game of the FiBA World Cup qualifiers. While many stars struggled in the game, the 2024 rookie managed to thread seven assists in the game to help her side record a 14-point win against the European giants.
Second MVP award at only 24. Caitlin Clark, you’re an incredible hooper. 🇺🇸#FIBAWWC x #WeOwnTheGame pic.twitter.com/j2YzfbfyGw
— FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup (@FIBAWWC) March 18, 2026
Leading the team in assists, CC was more of facilitator for the team but added seven points and a block in the game, finishing her debut campaign as the team leader in points, efficiency, and assists.
For her performances, the player won the MVP award. Many saw Caitlin Clark’s teammate as the top choice for the MVP award, but CC’s decisive play in the finale game helped her take the MVP award home.