As the WNBA gears up for its preseason, excitement is mounting for what’s shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated returns in women’s basketball. Caitlin Clark, now a member of the Indiana Fever, is set to make her comeback to Iowa’s Carver-Hawkeye Arena in a preseason matchup against Brazil’s national team. This event will receive exclusive national coverage on ESPN, highlighting the immense interest in Clark’s homecoming. The decision to spotlight her game with solo coverage stands out, especially as ESPN bypasses a similar matchup featuring another rising star, Angel Reese, whose game will air on alternate platforms.
This year marks a groundbreaking moment for the league, with all 15 preseason games being made available through national broadcasts or streaming options for the first time ever. Platforms such as ESPN, ION, NBA TV, and WNBA League Pass are set to carry the games, giving fans unprecedented access. Among the most anticipated debuts this season are those of Paige Bueckers, Aneesah Morrow, and Hailey Van Lith, all stepping into the professional arena. Yet, it’s Clark’s journey—her evolution since her NCAA days and the symbolic return to her collegiate home—that seems to have captured the most attention.
The Fever’s game against Brazil, scheduled for May 4, stands apart not just for its venue but for its sentimental weight. Clark’s achievements at the University of Iowa made her a national sensation—her record-breaking scoring feats and electrifying play turned her into a generational icon. The broadcast decision seems to reflect this legacy, with ESPN recognizing the unique draw of her return to the very court where she made history. In contrast, the Chicago Sky’s game against Brazil, featuring fellow rookie standout Angel Reese, will air on ION and the WNBA League Pass—an indication of how media priorities can differ based on narrative and market appeal.
Behind the scenes, WNBA executives have emphasized their commitment to meeting fan demand and elevating the league’s visibility. Colie Edison, the league’s chief growth officer, underscored this by highlighting the strategic partnerships and investments made to ensure comprehensive access to the preseason games. Yet, the preferential coverage given to Clark’s game signals how individual player storylines can shape broadcast decisions. The Fever’s president of basketball operations, Kelly Krauskopf, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how Clark’s return to Iowa has fostered a deep connection between Hawkeye fans and the Fever franchise.
As for Clark, the excitement of playing once again in front of Iowa fans is palpable. She expressed joy at the opportunity to reunite with familiar faces, see old teammates, and share the moment with her family. Her only concern? The notoriously warm Carver-Hawkeye Arena, which lacks air conditioning—a quirky yet memorable detail as she prepares to relive the magic in a building where her legend began. For fans and the league alike, this return is more than a preseason game—it’s a celebration of a star coming home.
