FOX Sports commentator Colin Cowherd highlighted the significant influence of Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark on the WNBA’s viewership, pointing out that league ratings have dropped sharply since her recent injury. In a June 2025 broadcast of The Herd, Cowherd emphasized Clark’s impact on the growth of the league and its ratings, framing her as a central figure driving audience interest.

Caitlin Clark’s Injury Linked to Steep Drop in WNBA Ratings

Colin Cowherd addressed a recent report indicating that WNBA ratings had plummeted by more than 50 percent following Caitlin Clark’s injury. He described Clark as a “rising tide” for the league, suggesting that her presence on the court elevates the entire WNBA’s visibility and fan engagement. According to Cowherd, the decline in ratings affects the league as a whole, not just Indiana Fever games.

Hopefully this is good news that she’s coming back. And it’s a reminder: Ladies of the WNBA, she is the rising tide,

Cowherd said.

This is not Fever games just down. This is league ratings. Since she got hurt, down 55-percent. She is essentially the sun at the beach: If she’s not out, nobody else is…

Mixed Reactions from Fans on Clark’s Prominence in Discussions

The assertion that the WNBA depends heavily on Caitlin Clark has sparked debate among fans. Some have pushed back against what they see as an overemphasis on Clark’s impact, calling for a broader appreciation of the sport beyond individual stars.

Can we cancel this narrative please?

one fan wrote.

The Caitlin agenda was last year. Just watch or don’t. Be a fan of basketball or just a person. The ratings are irrelevant to those watching.

Then what? Bend the knee and let the Fever walk to an easy championship because it’s ‘good for the ratings?’

another user reacted critically.

He’s telling the WNBA players to be nice when he needs to look in the mirror…

a third commented.

Yeah, let’s say this while also to get the fact that the national windows since CC’s injury have been trash lol but OK. Anything for basketball narrative. Storm/Lynx was trapped on League Pass & Sparks/Aces was on CBSSN DURING GAME THREE OF THE NBA FINALS. But SURE.

Is it still a smart point if you make it every day for 2 years?

Context Surrounding the Ratings Decline and Broadcast Competition

Some observers have noted that scheduling conflicts with major basketball events, such as the NBA Finals, may also be contributing to the WNBA’s recent ratings woes. Several WNBA games airing concurrently with the NBA Finals could have negatively impacted viewership, making it unclear if Clark’s absence is the sole factor behind the decline.

WNBA’s Growth Challenges Amid Reliance on Key Players

The importance of Caitlin Clark’s presence illuminates a broader challenge for the WNBA: maintaining consistent and sustainable audience numbers independent of one star athlete. While Clark’s appeal is undeniable, leagues typically aim to cultivate a broad base of players who collectively draw fans. The steep drop in ratings during her injury period raises questions about the WNBA’s overall market stability and long-term growth trajectory.

Significance of Caitlin Clark’s Influence and the Future of WNBA Viewership

Clark’s proven ability to boost WNBA ratings by as much as 256 percent during games highlights her exceptional drawing power for fans and media alike. This kind of impact emphasizes the need for strategic league efforts to build star-driven narratives while expanding broader interest in all teams and players. As Clark recovers and returns to the court, the WNBA will closely watch whether ratings rebound and if this momentum can be sustained beyond her individual contributions.