What impact will the return of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have on WNBA viewership? How does the scheduling of preseason games reflect the growing demand for women’s basketball? What previous achievements did Clark and Reese accomplish in their inaugural season? Why is this year’s preseason significant compared to past years?
New York (AP) — Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s return to college for WNBA preseason games will be two of a record four exhibition games shown on national TV. Clark will head back to Iowa for an exhibition between her Indiana Fever and the Brazilian national team on Sunday, a game airing on ESPN. The Fever’s exhibition game against the Washington Mystics a day earlier will be on NBA TV.
Reese will lead the Chicago Sky back to her alma mater, LSU, on Friday to face the Brazilian team. Sky teammate Kamilla Cardoso played for that Brazilian team in February 2024, trying to help it qualify for the Paris Olympics. That game will be part of a doubleheader on ION.
The WNBA will be showing all 15 of its preseason games either on national television or league pass.
“ We’ve seen the demand for WNBA content grow exponentially and we are meeting that demand by working with our broadcast partners and our teams to make a significant investment by making all 15 preseason games available to WNBA fans,” Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison said.
The league showed two exhibition games in 2023 and four last year, including Clark’s debut, which was on league pass. Reese’s preseason debut against Minnesota wasn’t televised, but a fan livestreamed it on social media. The livestream drew significant attention, getting millions of views.
The two rookies last season helped the league draw record-breaking viewership. ESPN games averaged 1.2 million viewers in the regular season, a 170% increase from the previous year. The postseason averaged 1.1 million viewers, making it the league’s most-viewed playoffs in 25 years.
The other game that will be nationally televised will be when Dallas plays Las Vegas at Notre Dame in the first game of the ION doubleheader Friday. Three former Irish stars — Dallas’ Arike Ogunbowale and Las Vegas’ Jewell Loyd and Jackie Young — are coming back to campus. The game also will mark the debut of Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft two weeks ago.
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese: A Pivotal Return to College Basketball
In the evolving landscape of women’s basketball, few athletes have captured the spotlight quite like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Their return to collegiate play for the WNBA preseason games promises both to elevate their respective programs and to enhance the visibility of women’s sports on a national scale. This article explores the significance of their return, the implications for the WNBA, and what fans can expect from these two standout athletes.
The Rise of Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark’s ascent in college basketball has been meteoric. Known for her incredible scoring ability and on-court IQ, Clark has quickly become a household name. During her time at the University of Iowa, she broke numerous records and led her team to the NCAA Tournament. Her distinct playing style, marked by deep three-point shooting and exceptional passing skills, has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Clark’s talent and charisma have not only won her accolades but have also made her a role model for young girls aspiring to play sports.
As she prepares for the upcoming WNBA preseason games, fans are not just looking forward to her athletic prowess. They are also eager to witness her growth as a leader and her ability to handle the pressure that comes with high-stakes competition. Clark’s presence in these games serves as a reminder of the importance of visibility in women’s sports and the necessity of providing platforms for these remarkable athletes.
Angel Reese: A Force to Be Reckoned With
On the other side of the court is Angel Reese. Known for her dominant performances at Louisiana State University (LSU), Reese has become a focal point for discussions surrounding skill, tenacity, and competition. After leading LSU to a national championship, her return to college for WNBA preseason games will be closely scrutinized by fans and analysts alike.
Reese’s physicality and ability to score in the paint make her a versatile player who can adapt to various matchups. Beyond her on-court skills, she is also a powerful advocate for women’s sports, using her platform to inspire others to pursue their dreams. Reese’s engagement with fans on social media has helped cultivate a dedicated following, further enhancing her status as one of college basketball’s most influential figures.
The Impact of National Coverage
The decision to broadcast Clark and Reese’s return on national television marks a significant milestone for women’s sports. Historically, the coverage of women’s basketball has not been on par with men’s, but this trend is slowly changing. By featuring star players like Clark and Reese, networks are not only offering fans a chance to witness top-tier competition but also sending a message about the importance of equity in sports broadcasting.
This exposure is crucial for the growth of women’s basketball. With more visibility comes increased sponsorship opportunities, higher attendance at games, and an expanded fan base. As Clark and Reese take the court, they carry not just their personal aspirations but also the hopes of many young girls who dream of following in their footsteps. The national coverage of their games can inspire a new generation of athletes to pursue careers in sports.
A Look Ahead: What to Expect
Anticipation for the preseason games featuring Clark and Reese is at an all-time high. Fans can expect to see both players push the limits of their skills while showcasing the teamwork that is essential at this level of play. Key matchups against other talented athletes will offer a window into how they have evolved during their time at the collegiate level.
Moreover, these games will serve as an opportunity for fans to witness the future stars of the WNBA. With numerous young talents emerging, the stakes are high for all players involved. Winning these preseason games is important, but so is making a lasting impression that can influence draft decisions and future contracts.
A Cultural Milestone
The significance of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s return cannot be understated. Their presence on national television will inevitably spark conversations about women’s rights and equality in sports. The narrative surrounding these athletes extends beyond basketball; it encompasses broader themes of empowerment and representation in athletics.
As they take the court during the preseason, Clark and Reese will not only be playing games; they will be participating in a cultural dialogue that highlights the ongoing challenges and triumphs faced by female athletes. It’s a moment for players, fans, and stakeholders alike to reflect on the progress made in women’s sports while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead.
Conclusion
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s return to college for WNBA preseason games epitomizes a significant moment in women’s basketball, illuminating the path for future generations and showcasing the incredible talent present in the sport. With national coverage ensuring that their stories are amplified, both players are poised not only to compete but to inspire. As fans prepare for the upcoming games, there is a sense of excitement that transcends sports, offering a glimpse into a future where women’s athletics receives the recognition and respect it deserves.
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, standout players from the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, are set to make their WNBA preseason debuts in May 2025. Clark, the first overall pick by the Indiana Fever, will face the Dallas Wings on May 3, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time in Arlington, Texas. Reese, selected seventh overall by the Chicago Sky, will play against the Minnesota Lynx on the same day at 8:00 p.m. Central Time in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (cbsnews.com)
Both games will be available for streaming on the WNBA app, providing fans nationwide the opportunity to watch these highly anticipated matchups. (cbsnews.com)
These preseason games offer a glimpse into the professional careers of Clark and Reese, who have already made significant impacts in women’s basketball. Their performances are expected to draw considerable attention, contributing to the growing popularity of the WNBA.
WNBA Schedule
- Dallas Wings @ Las Vegas Aces on Friday, May 02, 2025 at 04:00 PM PDT
- Brazil National Team @ Chicago Sky on Friday, May 02, 2025 at 05:00 PM PDT
- Washington Mystics @ Indiana Fever on Saturday, May 03, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT
- Brazil National Team @ Indiana Fever on Sunday, May 04, 2025 at 01:00 PM PDT
- Connecticut Sun @ Seattle Storm on Sunday, May 04, 2025 at 03:00 PM PDT
- Minnesota Lynx @ Chicago Sky on Tuesday, May 06, 2025 at 04:00 PM PDT
- Phoenix Mercury @ Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday, May 06, 2025 at 07:00 PM PDT
- Los Angeles Sparks @ Golden State Valkyries on Tuesday, May 06, 2025 at 07:00 PM PDT
- Atlanta Dream @ Washington Mystics on Wednesday, May 07, 2025 at 08:30 AM PDT
- Connecticut Sun @ New York Liberty on Friday, May 09, 2025 at 04:00 PM PDT
- Indiana Fever @ Atlanta Dream on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 12:00 PM PDT
- Toyota Antelopes @ Dallas Wings on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 05:00 PM PDT
- Chicago Sky @ Minnesota Lynx on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 05:00 PM PDT
- Golden State Valkyries @ Phoenix Mercury on Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 03:00 PM PDT
- Toyota Antelopes @ New York Liberty on Monday, May 12, 2025 at 07:00 PM PDT
- Atlanta Dream @ Washington Mystics on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 04:30 PM PDT
- Minnesota Lynx @ Dallas Wings on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 04:30 PM PDT
- Los Angeles Sparks @ Golden State Valkyries on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 07:00 PM PDT
- Las Vegas Aces @ New York Liberty on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM PDT
- Chicago Sky @ Indiana Fever on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 12:00 PM PDT