The Contrast Between Two Homecomings
This past weekend, the WNBA witnessed two of its most talked-about rookies return to their college roots—but the fan reception couldn’t have been more different. Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, both stars in their own right, drew attention for reasons that had less to do with basketball and more to do with public perception. While Clark received a thunderous welcome in a jam-packed arena, Reese’s return was marked by noticeable gaps in the stands. The split turnout raised questions that went far beyond the scoreboard, sparking conversation about influence, impact, and the realities of stardom in women’s sports.
Clark’s Electric Return to Iowa
Clark’s return to Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City for a preseason face-off between the Indiana Fever and Brazil’s national team quickly became the hottest ticket in town. Fans snatched up all 15,000 available seats within half an hour of sales going live. Prices on resale sites soared, and the event took on the feel of a national celebration rather than a preseason scrimmage. The arena was a sea of Clark jerseys and homemade signs, and the energy was nothing short of electrifying. It was clear that fans weren’t just coming for a game—they were coming for Caitlin Clark.
Reese’s Lukewarm Reception in Baton Rouge
Meanwhile, Angel Reese’s homecoming at LSU’s Pete Maravich Assembly Center told a different story. Although she was back on the court where she became a national champion, fewer than 6,400 fans showed up in an arena that seats over 13,000. Despite similar ticket prices and the same Brazilian opponent, entire sections of the arena were visibly empty, and upper decks remained closed. Reese’s camp cited factors like timing and lack of promotion, but many observers couldn’t ignore the optics—and the comparisons quickly followed.
Social Media and the Star Power Debate
Social media lit up with side-by-side comparisons. Critics were quick to question Reese’s claims of being a major draw in women’s basketball, while supporters rushed to her defense. Yet, one theme echoed consistently: Clark doesn’t talk much about her impact—she just lets her performance and packed arenas do the talking. Analysts and fans began revisiting a key distinction in professional sports: the difference between having a large following and being someone who can fill seats. Some argued that Clark has become the face of the league without needing to proclaim it.
The Bigger Picture for the WNBA
What happened over the weekend speaks volumes about how influence is measured in professional sports. Reese has style, flair, and a strong social media presence, which have earned her endorsements and fan engagement online. Clark, on the other hand, is currently demonstrating that she can translate college stardom into real-time attendance and TV ratings. For a league working hard to grow its audience, the message is clear: numbers matter, and not just the ones on the stat sheet. As the WNBA navigates this era of rising stars, the league may need to reexamine how it defines star power—and who’s truly bringing fans through the gates.
