The Indiana Fever and Las Vegas Aces drew a staggering crowd of over 20,000 fans for their Tuesday night matchup, marking the largest WNBA regular-season attendance in nearly three decades. The surge in popularity follows the electrifying arrival of No. 1 overall pick Caitlin Clark and the Aces' impressive run of success.
The highly anticipated clash between the Indiana Fever and the Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday night became a triumphant moment for the WNBA, drawing the largest crowd for a regular-season game in nearly three decades. The Aces, led by their veteran-stacked roster, extended their winning streak to five games with an 88-69 victory over the Fever in front of a roaring crowd of over 20,000 fans at T-Mobile Arena, the home of the NHL's Vegas Golden Knights.
WNBA Thrives as Record Crowd Fuels Fever-Aces Clash
The massive turnout set a new attendance record for the WNBA, eclipsing the previous mark set in 1999. It also marked the fifth-largest crowd in league history, a testament to the growing popularity of women's basketball.
"It was probably one of the best we've had from an energy standpoint, even during warm-ups," said Fever star Caitlin Clark after the game. "The amount of people here just watching warm-ups, that's when I can kind of get a gauge on how good the crowd is or how excited they are about the game."
WNBA Thrives as Record Crowd Fuels Fever-Aces Clash
Clark, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has been credited with fueling the league's recent surge in popularity. The Fever are no strangers to sellout crowds and record viewership, but the WNBA has experienced an unprecedented spike in interest since Clark's arrival. May marked the highest attended opening month in 26 years and the most-watched start to a season ever across every major network.
"What's happening now in women's basketball is confirmation of what we've always known: The demand is there, and women's sports is a valuable investment," said Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison in a statement last month.
WNBA Thrives as Record Crowd Fuels Fever-Aces Clash
The Aces, the defending back-to-back champions, have also contributed to the WNBA's growing momentum. They became the first team to sell out every home game, including a September match against the Chicago Sky at T-Mobile Arena.
"We're encouraged by growing engagement across all our verticals, especially as we welcome new and diverse audiences into our fandom," said Edison.
The Fever-Aces matchup showcased the league's rising stars and veterans alike. Clark, who made her third start of the season, led the Fever with 21 points. Aces forward A'ja Wilson, the reigning WNBA MVP, added 20 points and 10 rebounds.
The WNBA's continued growth is a testament to the skill, athleticism, and dedication of its players. The league has consistently provided exciting and competitive games, attracting a growing audience of fans who appreciate the high level of play.
As the season progresses, the WNBA is poised for continued success. The momentum generated by Clark's arrival, the Aces' dominance, and the record-breaking attendance at Tuesday's game indicates that women's basketball is on the rise. The league's future looks bright as it continues to captivate fans and inspire young athletes.
