The recent release of the WNBA’s national television schedule has sparked discussion and raised eyebrows, particularly regarding the stark contrast in exposure between two of the league’s most prominent players: Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. The schedule appears to send a clear message about who the networks believe will attract viewers, and the numbers tell a compelling story.
The calendar breakdown
Iowa rookie Caitlin Clark is scheduled to appear in 41 of her 44 games on national platforms. This unprecedented coverage highlights her perceived value as a major draw for the league. In contrast, Angel Reese’s games will only be televised nationally nine times, with four of those games scheduled because she plays Clark. This disparity raises questions about Reese’s star power and the media narrative that has long positioned her as a leading figure in women’s basketball.
Media narrative vs. reality
For years, Angel Reese has been portrayed as an unstoppable force and a key player in driving viewership. However, the WNBA’s scheduling decisions suggest otherwise. Despite media efforts to raise Reese’s profile, the networks have made it clear where they believe the real interest lies. Without Clark in the picture, Reese’s games have struggled to attract significant viewership, often failing to reach 200,000 viewers.
The basketball activity
The WNBA’s decision to prioritize Clark’s games over Reese’s isn’t just a reflection of personal preference or hype; it’s a business decision based on viewership data. Networks aim to deliver audiences to advertisers, and Clark’s games have historically drawn higher numbers. When Clark plays, viewership often exceeds a million, while Reese’s games haven’t shown the same impact.
Social Media and Public Perception
Angel Reese’s social media presence stands in stark contrast to Clark’s more reserved approach. Reese frequently engages in online discussions and posts that seem designed to maintain his relevance. This behavior has drawn criticism, suggesting that his need for attention may stem from an awareness of his declining appeal as a standalone star.
The experiment and its result
Recently, Reese had the opportunity to prove her star power without Clark’s shadow. The networks heavily promoted her performances, but the results were disappointing. The show’s ratings consistently failed, reinforcing the networks’ decision to focus on Clark.
Conclusion
The WNBA’s national television schedule reflects the league’s current dynamics and the reality of who is truly driving interest in women’s basketball. While Angel Reese remains a talented player, Caitlin Clark has emerged as the league’s primary draw. This revelation isn’t just a one-season schedule; it’s a statement about the changing landscape of women’s basketball and the players shaping its future.
As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out on and off the court. The networks have spoken, and the numbers don’t lie: Caitlin Clark is the face of women’s basketball today, and the spotlight is firmly on her.
