Caitlin Clark’s exceptional performance and rising popularity have significantly influenced the WNBA landscape, prompting six teams to relocate their home games against the Indiana Fever to larger venues for the upcoming 2025 season. This strategic move aims to accommodate the surging demand from fans eager to witness Clark’s on-court prowess.
The Wings have shifted their June 27 game against the Fever to the American Airlines Center in Dallas, marking the first WNBA game at this venue. This arena, home to the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, boasts a seating capacity of approximately 20,000, a significant increase from the 6,000 seats at the Wings’ usual College Park Center in Arlington.
The Dream will host the Fever on May 22 at the State Farm Arena, moving from the smaller Gateway Center Arena. State Farm Arena, also home to the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, can accommodate over 17,000 fans, compared to the 5,000-seat capacity of their regular venue.
: The Sky have relocated two games against the Fever to the United Center, scheduled for June 7 and July 27. This venue, shared with the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks, offers a seating capacity exceeding 20,000, doubling the capacity of their usual Wintrust Arena.
The Mystics will play their home games against the Fever on May 28 and September 7 at the CFG Bank Arena, which seats 14,000. This marks the second consecutive season the Mystics have opted for a larger venue to host the Fever, reflecting the sustained interest in matchups featuring Clark.
The Aces have announced plans to move their home game against the Fever to a larger venue, although specific details regarding the new location and date are yet to be disclosed.
The Sun are also among the teams adjusting their venue plans to accommodate increased attendance for games featuring the Fever. Details about the specific changes are forthcoming.
These venue changes underscore the profound impact Caitlin Clark has had on the WNBA, often referred to as the “Caitlin Clark effect.” Her presence has not only elevated attendance figures but also boosted television viewership and overall interest in women’s basketball. For instance, during the 2024 season, the Fever’s regular-season finale set a league attendance record with 20,711 spectators.
As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, these strategic venue adjustments reflect the league’s commitment to accommodating the growing fanbase and capitalizing on the heightened enthusiasm surrounding women’s basketball, largely fueled by standout players like Caitlin Clark.
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