Caitlin Clark’s Sold-Out Iowa Return, Fever’s Roster Cuts, & Silence From Nike Spark Fan Reactions

Caitlin Clark’s highly anticipated return to Iowa in an exhibition matchup against Brazil was everything fans hoped for — and more. The game, hosted by the Indiana Fever, was a sold-out spectacle and the latest sign that Clark’s stardom isn’t just holding strong, it’s skyrocketing.

Held at the University of Iowa’s Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the same court where Clark became a national phenomenon in college, the exhibition brought out thousands of passionate fans, many of whom wore Fever and Hawkeyes jerseys. Clark didn’t disappoint — hitting long-range threes and dishing out assists in a performance that felt like a homecoming celebration.

The moment was a milestone in multiple ways: the game drew 1.3 million television viewers, breaking records for WNBA preseason broadcasts, and was more viewed than all but two NBA preseason games since 2010 — both of which involved LeBron James. The Caitlin Clark effect is real, and it’s reshaping the visibility of women’s basketball.

However, while the event was a massive success on the court and in the stands, a few off-court storylines grabbed just as much attention.

Roster Cuts Stir Debate

As the Fever prepare for the upcoming WNBA season, tough decisions are being made behind the scenes. The team recently announced significant roster cuts, including several young players and hopefuls who were vying for a final spot. With the addition of veterans like Natasha Howard and Sophie Cunningham, and with stars like Aliyah Boston returning, competition is fierce.

Caitlin Clark has spoken highly of her teammates and praised the depth of the Fever’s revamped roster, but the cuts are a reminder of the business side of professional sports. Fans expressed disappointment at some of the departures, while analysts highlighted how these decisions reflect the increased expectations in Indiana this season.

Under new head coach Stephanie White, the Fever are no longer rebuilding — they’re aiming to contend. But with only 144 roster spots league-wide and limited guaranteed contracts, even promising talent can be left out, showing the harsh reality many WNBA hopefuls face.

Nike’s Silence Raises Eyebrows

Perhaps the most puzzling storyline came from who didn’t speak up following Clark’s huge return: Nike.

Despite being one of the most marketable athletes in the world right now — and a Nike NIL athlete during her college days — the brand has been quiet. No social media posts, no new campaigns, no official press releases acknowledging her record-breaking preseason debut. Fans took notice.

Many expected Nike to double down on its relationship with Clark, especially with her now in the pros and leading the way in WNBA ratings and merchandise sales. But as of now, there’s been no announcement about a signature shoe, no expanded endorsement, and no clear public support from the sportswear giant.

“Clark is doing numbers LeBron did in preseason and Nike is still MIA?” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “They’re missing the moment.”

What Comes Next?

Caitlin Clark has proven she can draw viewers, sell tickets, and elevate the conversation around women’s basketball — all while still adjusting to the professional game. The Fever, meanwhile, are shaping into a real playoff threat, built around youth, talent, and now a budding superstar.

As the regular season approaches, the spotlight will only get brighter. The Fever will be featured in 41 of 44 nationally televised games — an unprecedented media rollout for any WNBA team.

The questions remain: Will Nike step up and back the biggest star in the game? And can the Fever translate preseason buzz into postseason results?

One thing’s for sure: with Caitlin Clark at the center of it all, everyone is watching.