Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink cause women’s merchandise market to soar to $4 billion

The WNBA is dealing with unprecedented levels of fan following ever since these rookies have come in.

Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink cause women’s merchandise market to soar to $4 billion

WNBA rookies Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink cause women's merchandise market to soar to $4 billion

The WNBA was expected to soar in earnings once Caitlin Clark decided to end her collegiate career. So far, all the sold-out jerseys, packed arenas and record-breaking viewers are confirming the impact of the Indiana Fever rookie. Then add fellow rookies Angel Reese and Cameron Brink, and the combined impact has ensured that the league is about to explode in terms of revenue.

A report by Front Office Sports in association with Klarna revealed that the women’s sports merchandising industry is set to soar to $4 Billion. That is a massive jump for an industry which was always lagging behind those of the men.

To put it in perspective, WNBA games have garnered more average viewers and ticket sales than it has ever done in its existence. That has led to a major boost in demand for WNBA merchandise.

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To cite the latest example, All-Star jerseys of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese were sold out from their respective team stores in record time—an indication that demand is increasing. But stocks are not available to fully take advantage of the demand. FOS reported that manufacturers have not been able to meet the demand, as no one expected the growth to reach such levels.

Therefore, to fully take advantage of the increasing demand, the WNBA will need to work with their partners to increase their supply. Only then can the league benefit from this. The league must reverse the fortunes of all its teams, starting with fully utilizing the growth in merchandising sales.

Caitlin Clark’s effect sees New Balance deal with the WNBA

Nike has been supporting the WNBA so far. However, it does not mean that the league cannot look for further influx of support from other companies. Reporter Nick DePaula recently revealed that New Balance has inked a multi-year deal with the league. They will use their combined resources to promote the company’s ambassador, Cameron Brink throughout her career.

This could set a tone for others to follow. Angel Reese has not shied away from promoting her Reebok merchandise in games. They could follow the lead of their competitors and help the WNBA and themselves feed off of this increased attention. Add Caitlin Clark‘s upcoming signature line from Nike, and suddenly women’s athletes have merchandise that fans want to buy.

All of this could set the ball rolling. With more and more fans tuning in to watch, not only these three rookies, but also their teammates will benefit from the trend. It will eventually end up helping all the players in the league to earn more than what they are receiving currently.

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