Sage Steele attributes WNBA growth and profitability to Caitlin Clark
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 11:27 AM
Last updated Sep 9, 2026
Former broadcaster Sage Steele credited Caitlin Clark for accelerating the growth and profitability of the WNBA during a discussion on Tuesday. Steele noted that the league entered its 30th season and achieved profitability in 2025, with increased revenue linked to the Indiana Fever guard. While some critics argue that long-term league foundation and other players deserve equal credit for the WNBA's success, Steele emphasized that the timing of the league's rise coincides with Clark's entry. On the international stage, Clark is representing the United States at the 2026 FIBA World Cup. She currently leads Team USA in views on the FIBA website and holds a tournament average of 6.3 assists per game. The United States secured wins against China, Italy, and the Czech Republic during the initial phase of the tournament.
- •Sage Steele links the WNBA's 2025 profitability and increased player salaries to the arrival of Caitlin Clark.
- •Caitlin Clark ranks as the most-viewed Team USA player during the 2026 FIBA World Cup.
- •The Indiana Fever guard is averaging 6.3 assists per game in international play.
- •Team USA recorded victories over China, Italy, and the Czech Republic in the tournament.
- 11:27 AMYahoo Sports — “Hate On Her All You Want”: Sage Steele Wholeheartedly Credits Caitlin Clark’s Undeniable Impact on WNBA
"Former ESPN broadcaster Sage Steele praised Caitlin Clark’s influence on the WNBA after the league finally exploded 30 years after its inception. On Tuesday, Steele discussed the league’s growth on her show with former NFL Defensive Player of the Year Brian Urlacher and how Clark impacted it.
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