League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Breaking News

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese attract 2.6 million viewers for WNBA matchup

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 10:54 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese attract 2.6 million viewers for WNBA matchup

Summary

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese drew an audience of 2.6 million viewers on ESPN during their WNBA matchup, setting a new cable record for any WNBA game, whether from the regular season or playoffs. This event highlights the growing interest in women's basketball, fueled in part by the performances of standout players like Clark. The record viewership signifies a continued upward trend in ratings for the league, which has seen significant growth in recent years. As the season progresses, the expectation is that such high viewer numbers may become more common.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports Fox News

By the Numbers

•Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese featured in a record-setting WNBA game on ESPN.
•The matchup attracted 2.6 million viewers, surpassing previous records.
•This event reflects the rising popularity and visibility of women's basketball.
•The league continues to experience growth in TV ratings during the season.

Latest Updates

10:54 PMYahoo Sports — Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever set TV viewership records on ESPN, Ion
12:05 AMFox News — Caitlin Clark helps WNBA shatter another TV ratings record as Fever-Dream draws massive audience - Fox News

What they're saying

"
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese drew 2.6 million viewers on ESPN, shattering the previous cable record for any WNBA game, regular season or playoffs.
— Fox News