During a recent game between the Dallas Wings and the Indiana Fever, Dallas star Satou Sabally expressed her mixed emotions over the overwhelming presence of Caitlin Clark fans. Despite the fiercely competitive atmosphere, Sabally humorously admitted that it was annoying to see so many supporters of Clark, a player who has dramatically boosted the WNBA’s popularity. Clark, who rose to prominence following her standout 2023 NCAA season and her highly publicized rivalry with Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky, has drawn fans from all corners of the country, including an impressive 899-mile trek from Indianapolis to Dallas. Sabally acknowledged the excitement surrounding the game, noting, “It’s amazing to see so many people in women’s basketball jerseys.” However, she also wished for more local Dallas fans to support their team, reflecting her pride and desire for stronger hometown support.
Despite some annoyance, Sabally recognized the broader significance of Clark’s influence on the league, admitting it was a positive sign for women’s basketball. “I had mixed feelings seeing all the Caitlin jerseys in our home, but it’s an amazing sign for women’s basketball and it’s just great how far we’ve come—just fun; it’s a good thing,” Sabally added. Clark’s rookie season has not been without controversy, as some critics label her as overrated, while others try to entangle her in debates about race and representation in the league. Yet, the presence of her fans across arenas speaks volumes about her impact, with nearly 500,000 fans attending Indiana Fever games this season alone. The WNBA has seen a 20% rise in attendance, underscoring the growing interest and support for women’s basketball.
The recent matchup between the Wings and the Fever was a testament to the competitive spirit Clark brings to the court. The Fever continued their strong performance, securing a 100-93 victory over the Wings, with Clark once again delivering a stellar game, contributing 28 points, 12 assists, and four rebounds. Since July 6th, Clark has consistently scored 19 points or more in every WNBA game, except for one against the Minnesota Lynx, where she tallied 17 points. Her remarkable consistency has set a new standard, breaking the Fever’s franchise record for most points by a rookie, previously held by Tamika Catchings with 594 points. Clark’s total now stands at an impressive 617 points, marking her as one of the most exciting new talents in the league and a key player driving the WNBA’s ongoing growth and popularity
