World Reacts as Caitlin Clark Fever Return vs Liberty Makes WNBA Ratings History

According to Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files (via Substack), the Clark comeback netted ABC 2.2 million viewers, on average, making it the third most-watched WNBA contest in network history.

Clark did not disappoint. The 23-year-old phenom out of Iowa scored 32 points on 11-of-20 shooting from the field (7-of-14 from deep) and 3-of-5 shooting from the foul line, dished out nine dimes, grabbed eight rebounds, blocked two shots and swiped a steal. 

The 6-footer's seven made triples tied her WNBA career record (so far), first established against the Washington Mystics during her Rookie of the Year run last season.

Through five healthy games so far this year, Clark has been averaging 21.6 points on .439/.367/.720 shooting splits, 9.2 assists and 6.4 rebounds a night.

21-time All-NBA Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, no stranger to setting basketball records, praised Clark's performance in her return.

"The CC EFFECT!!" James wrote on X. "WELCOME BACK! You were missed!"

Boston, meanwhile, notched a 10-point, 11-rebound double-double, along with six assists and two blocks. Guard Kelsey Mitchell secured 22 points on 9-of-21 shooting from the floor.

Fans were enthused, and appreciated the impact of Clark's comeback — especially given its context.

Since Clark was drafted, the Fever and Liberty have frequently made for record-setting appointment television, as another fan noticed.

Indiana's next matchup is slated for Tuesday against the 2-8 Connecticut Sun. It will be broadcast on NBA TV, and MeTV Indianapolis locally, and is set to tip off at 4 p.m. PT/7 p.m. ET.