Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese Draw Buzz Following Major WNBA Announcement

The WNBA’s surge in popularity in recent years has been driven by a new wave of superstar talent, led by Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese. Their impact, along with other standout players, has helped the league shatter attendance and viewership records.

According to ESPN, the 2024 season averaged 9,807 fans per game, a 48% increase from 2023, with total in-person attendance exceeding 2.35 million—the highest figure in over two decades. Television viewership also reached new heights, with regular-season games averaging 1.19 million viewers across ESPN platforms, marking a 170% year-over-year growth.

That momentum reached another milestone on Thursday, when NBA 2K announced a groundbreaking feature for NBA 2K26 that immediately captured the attention of basketball fans worldwide.

NBA 2K26 Brings WNBA Stars to MyTEAM for the First Time

For the first time in franchise history, NBA 2K26 will allow players to collect and use WNBA player cards in the popular MyTEAM mode alongside NBA legends. Fans will be able to create mixed rosters featuring WNBA icons such as A’ja Wilson, Clark, Reese, and Brittney Griner playing alongside NBA superstars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry.

“Build from the best of both leagues in #NBA2K26 MyTEAM. For the first time ever, you’ll be able to collect and play with WNBA Player Cards, and pair them with your favorite NBA superstars in the same lineups,” NBA 2K wrote in their announcement.

The news immediately sparked a wave of fan reactions, with many imagining humorous and unexpected matchups:

“We’re going to see Caitlin Clark dunking on Shaq.”

“Angel Reese boxing out Shaq for a rebound will be the day I stop playing 2K forever.”

“If I get dunked on by Caitlin Clark, I’m turning the game off immediately.”

“Steph and Clark are going to dominate together.”

“A Caitlin Clark and Luka Doncic backcourt would be unstoppable.”

A Major Step Forward for WNBA Exposure

This feature represents more than just a fun addition to a video game—it’s a significant milestone for WNBA visibility. Integrating WNBA talent into one of the most popular sports games in the world will introduce these athletes to millions of gamers, many of whom may be discovering women’s basketball for the first time.

The timing is ideal. The WNBA is riding a wave of momentum fueled by expansion plans, including the upcoming Golden State Valkyries, and increased broadcast coverage that continues to reach new audiences.

With record-breaking attendance, soaring TV ratings, and now a presence in the gaming world, the WNBA is successfully expanding its reach—cementing stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese as household names both on the court and in the virtual arena.