Internet abuzz as Indiana Fever selects Caitlin Clark as first overall pick in WNBA draft

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: The WNBA entered a new era with the highly anticipated selection of Caitlin Clark as the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft on Monday, April 15th. This move has ignited excitement among basketball enthusiasts as Clark embarks on her professional career with the Indiana Fever, as per BBC.

The 22-year-old shooting guard from the University of Iowa was the top prospect after rewriting the NCAA record books during her college career. Regarded as one of the most remarkable collegiate players in history, Clark's selection marks a significant moment in women's basketball.

Caitlin Clark's scoring ability has sparked a lot of interest in women's basketball

"I dreamed of this moment since I was in second grade, and it's taken a lot of hard work, a lot of ups and downs," Clark told ESPN after hearing her name called.

"I'm excited. This is the most competitive league in the entire world, with less than 144 spots. So you better bring it every single night," the former Iowa Hawkeyes star said at her introductory press conference with the Fever.

Clark's path to the WNBA has been truly impressive. During her time at the University of Iowa, she made history by becoming the top scorer ever across both men's and women's college basketball.

She also broke the record for the most three-pointers made in a single season, beating even NBA superstar Steph Curry's record. Clark's scoring ability made her extremely popular online and sparked a lot of interest in women's basketball.

"The Caitlin Clark Effect," as it has been dubbed, has grabbed the attention of basketball fans all over the country.

Her impact on the sport is clear, as shown by the huge number of people who watched her last college game - the women's NCAA tournament championship against the South Carolina Gamecocks. With 24 million viewers, it became one of the most-watched college basketball games ever.

Caitlin Clark's path to the WNBA brings significant financial benefits

According to USA Today, Clark's journey to the WNBA comes with substantial financial gains. She is set to ink a four-year deal with the Fever, valued at $338,056.

However, her endorsements with major companies such as State Farm, Gatorade, Nike, Xfinity, H&R Block, and Panini America, among others, could potentially yield higher earnings than her WNBA contract.

Moreover, Clark has already established a regional presence in her new home market, securing a deal with Gainbridge, an insurance and annuity company based in Indianapolis.

Internet in frenzy in wake of Caitlin Clark's selection into the WNBA

News of Clark's selection into the WNBA sent the internet into a frenzy, with users expressing their excitement and admiration for the basketball star. One X user exclaimed, "Game-changer would be an understatement."

Another chimed in, affirming, "That's right, she's that good." A user predicted, "She will fill every stadium."

Another person wrote, "Congrats @IndianaFever on an amazing player and gaining one of the most dedicated fan bases in college."

A user hailed Clark, stating, "She is the GOAT." Another user reiterated, "The goat for real!" Lastly, a user remarked, "It’s getting real."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.