Since the 2024 WNBA Draft, a lot of new viewers have started tuning into the league. Two names responsible for the increased attention are Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, whose "rivalry" at the college level has trickled into the professional ranks. Former Los Angeles Lakers superstar Magic Johnson says it reminds him of his battles with Boston Celtics legend Larry Bird.
So far, the teams have played three times, with the Fever owning a 2-1 advantage. The Sky defeated the Fever 88-87 on Sunday in another thrilling matchup. "Larry and I heightened the NBA's overall popularity. The Lakers and Celtics sold out arenas throughout the league and increased television viewership exponentially. The higher viewership numbers led to the NBA signing significantly larger TV contracts which then led to higher salaries for the players. Caitlin and Angel are now doing the same thing, selling out arenas and increasing the viewership.