WNBA faces a staggering $40 million loss following Caitlin Clark’s elimination from the playoffs, highlighting the financial impact of her departure.
Attendance at WNBA games plummeted by 50% after Clark’s exit, with arenas that once saw record crowds now resembling ghost towns.
Merchandise sales for the WNBA dropped significantly, with a 61% decrease in sales after Caitlin Clark announced her move to Europe, indicating her crucial role in driving revenue.
WNBA Commissioner Kathy Engelbert publicly acknowledged the league’s misjudgment of Clark’s value, offering a potential six-year deal worth over $100 million in a desperate attempt to retain her.
Major changes to the WNBA playoff format and an expansion of the regular season are set for 2025, as the league seeks to recover from financial losses and attract fans back without Clark.