Caitlin Clark’s first trip to Atlanta sets attendance record

“The last few years I’ve played in front of these types of crowds and in these environments, so for me it’s not that different,” Clark said after the match. “Yes, I put on a different jersey, but these environments have become, I don’t want to say accustomed because it’s not something you get used to, but you get used to playing. And it’s fun I’ve never played in Atlanta before. It’s fun to go to all these different cities as a rookie and be able to play in front of crowds. Obviously there’s a lot of Fever gear. crowd was fun. You could feel the energy in the building tonight and that’s what makes basketball fun.

The crowd roared as Clark ran onto the field before the game. This barely stopped throughout the game.

Friday’s game is the latest example of the impact Clark has had on women’s soccer. Sunday’s game between the Fever and the Chicago Sky, which features fellow teammate Angel Reese, was the most-watched WNBA game in 23 years with 2.3 million viewers.

“I see a lot of fans supporting different teams; college teams, Indiana, Atlanta. …I see a lot of different people,” fan Gayla White said.

The Dream set a franchise record for single-game attendance, a record since their very first game. During that inaugural game in 2008, 11,609 fans filled then-Philips Arena.

The Fever set WNBA home and away attendance records. Friday was another example.

“(There are) a lot of places I’ve never played before,” Clark said. “I haven’t even been to the city of Atlanta. I have traveled here several times before. It’s my first time here.”

She will come back. The Dream will host Fever on August 26. This game will also be played at State Farm Arena.