FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis believes that the growing popularity of women's basketball, significantly boosted by stars like Caitlin Clark, could see female players achieve the same or even higher levels of popularity than male players by the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Zagklis made these remarks during a press conference prior to the World Cup Final.
He highlighted the "incredible" impact Clark and other young athletes have had on elevating the visibility of the women's game. Zagklis stated that FIBA and national federations have supported promotional efforts for these players, acknowledging that the athletes themselves recognize this as a "unique moment."
"I can tell you, I do believe that in the Los Angeles Olympics, our female players may be at the same or even higher level of popularity than many of our former male players," Zagklis said. "And this is not a criticism to anybody. It's just a result of the collective growth of the game."
Clark, despite not starting games in the current World Cup, has emerged as a prominent storyline. The 24-year-old guard is averaging just over 20 minutes per game for Team USA. She has been a key facilitator, ranking third in the tournament with an average of 5.8 assists per game. Her performance in the opening victory against China, where she recorded 14 points, 11 assists, and no turnovers, exemplified her playmaking ability.
Zagklis also pointed to other emerging talents, such as Iyana Martin from Spain, who was the MVP of the U19 tournament in 2023 and has secured a significant sponsorship deal. He noted that players worldwide are seizing these opportunities, leading to the broader growth of the sport. The FIBA Secretary General expressed pride in both male and female players for contributing to basketball's global reach.