Believe it or not, Caitlin Clark’s fanbase has a unique connection with her that grows stronger each day. That’s because the 2024 No. 1 overall pick doesn’t even need to join her squad on the court to connect with them, as she’s proved she can do it off of it too. And while that only adds to her star power, the league itself can’t help but benefit from it!
That was on full display in Minnesota, where Clark shone brightly even as she continued working her way back from injury. What else would you expect her to do? The surrounding frenzy was impossible to ignore—fans lined up outside just to catch a glimpse of the phenom. And the moment she walked into the Target Center, the arena erupted in cheers, proving the “Caitlin Clark craze” hasn’t cooled one bit.
It was so electric that even a CBS Sports commentator couldn’t help but capture the moment perfectly, calling Clark a “wonderful ambassador for the league.” Well, those five words sum up her impact both on and off the court as the 23-year-old Iowa native isn’t just changing games with her scoring and vision. Yes, she’s injured, but you can’t ignore her 16.5 points per game across 13 outings. From sold-out arenas to viral highlights, she is changing the way fans engage with women’s basketball, and Minnesota’s reaction was just the latest reminder that “the Caitlin Clark effect” is real—and it’s only growing.