ESPN is set to broadcast its first-ever nationally televised WNBA preseason game on May 4, marking a significant milestone for women’s basketball.
The Indiana Fever, featuring star rookie Caitlin Clark, will host the Brazil national team at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, at 6:00 PM ET.
This exhibition game offers a unique homecoming for Clark, who led the Iowa Hawkeyes to national prominence before being selected by the Fever as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. In her rookie season, Clark averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game, earning WNBA Rookie of the Year honors and a spot on the All-WNBA First Team.
The matchup is expected to draw significant attention, as it will be the first WNBA game broadcast nationally on ESPN. The Fever’s 2024 season finale, featuring Clark, became the most-viewed WNBA game ever on cable television, averaging 2.5 million viewers and peaking at 3.4 million. citeturn0search3 This preseason game is anticipated to build on that momentum, showcasing Clark’s continued impact on the sport.
The Brazil national team, a formidable international squad, will provide a challenging opponent for the Fever. Their participation adds an international flair to the event, highlighting the global appeal of women’s basketball.
Fans can look forward to a thrilling game that not only celebrates Clark’s return to her college roots but also signifies a new era for the WNBA on national television. With ESPN’s coverage, the game is poised to reach a broader audience, further elevating the profile of women’s sports.
As the Fever prepare for the upcoming season, this exhibition game serves as a testament to the growing popularity and recognition of women’s basketball, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 WNBA season.
