### Caitlin Clark Sparks Surge in WNBA Popularity

The coverage of the WNBA's rising popularity this season has been nothing short of chaotic. Central to this newfound attention is Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Her impact is undeniable, with skyrocketing viewership numbers, increased revenue sales, and higher fan attendance all linked to her presence. Remarkably, even the NFL has recognized her influence at its games. However, CBS’s “60 Minutes” seemed reluctant to give Clark full credit during a Sunday interview segment.

In the interview conducted by Jon Wetheim, Clark, along with other WNBA players, discussed the season's highlights. Wetheim acknowledged that Clark draws many fans to the sport but astonishingly claimed that the league itself was the real breakthrough star. "The real breakthrough star this season is the league itself," Wetheim asserted, suggesting that the WNBA's growth surpassed individual contributions. This sentiment, however, seems misaligned with the reality of what fans are tuning in to watch.

To put Clark’s influence into perspective, her achievements this season include being named the AP WNBA Rookie of the Year, among other accolades. The noticeable surge in fan attendance did not go unnoticed by players like Minnesota Lynx veteran Napheesa Collier. Collier remarked on the new energy in arenas, attributing it to Clark's dynamic presence. "It makes the game so, so fun. It's like your sixth man at home and then when you're away you can't wait to silence the crowd and that's just the best feeling ever," Collier said.

Despite this overwhelming evidence of Clark's impact, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert seemed hesitant to single her out. Engelbert suggested that the league's success is about more than one player, emphasizing the importance of compelling content and rivalries. "No league is ever about what player, people watch for compelling content and rivalries, and you can't do that alone," Engelbert stated. Yet, this appears to downplay the immediate influence Clark has had on the league's fortunes.

While the Clark-Angel Reese rivalry has certainly added to the drama, it's indisputable that Clark’s involvement is the linchpin. Without Clark, the narrative and attention given to Reese, and indeed many other players, would be significantly diminished. This season's story revolves primarily around Clark and her extraordinary contributions, making her the focal point of fans’ renewed interest in the WNBA.

In conclusion, the media's attempt to distribute credit for the WNBA’s rising popularity overlooks the clear fact that Caitlin Clark has been the primary driver. This season has been, undeniably, about Clark, her stellar rookie performance, and the excitement she brings to the court.