Caitlin Clark's meteoric rise in the WNBA has sparked a buzz that could see her play in Australia. The potential of a WNBA game Down Under is gaining traction, with NBA deputy commissioner Mark Tatum expressing interest in bringing a major superstar's team to the country. This comes on the heels of the NBA's successful pre-season games in Melbourne last October, which showcased the nation's love for basketball. The WNBA's growing popularity, driven by stars like Clark, Angel Reese, and Sabrina Ionescu, has led to record-breaking salaries and sold-out games. Clark, in particular, shattered records and delivered an estimated $1.5 billion to the league in her first year. The Indiana Fever, her team, consistently sold out games, and her return to Iowa saw 15,000 tickets sell out in just 40 minutes. The WNBA commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, has her sights set on expanding the league's reach, with Australia on the radar for 2027. Australian basketball legends like Michele Timms, Lauren Jackson, Penny Taylor, and Sandy Brondello are still beloved in the WNBA, with Brondello coaching the Toronto Tempo this season. The NBL and its owner, Larry Kestelman, have been instrumental in bringing NBA games to Australia, and they're pushing for more. The NBL is also a part owner of the WNBL, and a WNBA game in Australia would boost the local league, which features several WNBA players. Tatum acknowledges the strong interest in hosting a WNBA game in Australia, despite no current plans. The NBA's international schedule for 2026-2027 is already filled, but the league is open to exploring more opportunities in the future. The WNBA's expansion plans and the NBL's efforts to attract world-class basketball experiences to Australia could make the dream of a WNBA game in the country a reality.
