Longtime ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe was overcome with emotion before a WNBA game between the Indiana Fever and the Toronto Tempo in Canada, citing the unprecedented attendance and growth in women's basketball. The game, played on August 18, 2026, at the Scotiabank Arena, drew a crowd of 19,000 spectators.
Rowe, a prominent advocate for women's sports, captured her reaction in a video shared online. In the footage, she expressed disbelief and pride at the sold-out arena, stating she was "trying to work a basketball game" but was "crying because look at what they have built." She added, "I literally cannot quit crying to do my job right now. I mean, we have 19,000 people coming tonight to watch women's basketball and I'm just so proud."
The game's significant attendance was largely attributed to the presence of Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. The Fever's games have consistently drawn large crowds and high viewership, a phenomenon often referred to as the "Caitlin Clark effect." This surge in fan interest has led to numerous sellouts and increased media attention for the league. The decision to move the game to the larger Scotiabank Arena was a direct response to the high demand for tickets.
While Rowe's emotional reaction highlighted the growing popularity of the WNBA, the report notes that the specific context of Caitlin Clark's presence and the ongoing attention surrounding players like Sophie Cunningham were key factors in the record attendance. The "Caitlin Clark effect" has been observed throughout the league, contributing to increased attendance and viewership for multiple teams in previous seasons.
