Can WNBA get even more eyes on Caitlin Clark? Yep, host a game at Lucas Oil or Wrigley Field

The term "eventize," referring to turning releases or broadcasts into major spectacles, originated in marketing circles like Los Angeles as early as 2004, exemplified by elaborate DVD launches such as "Star Wars." Today, it's frequently used in sports media as a strategy to stand out in a crowded market by making broadcasts feel like significant events.

The WNBA employed this strategy effectively for its All-Star Weekend by naming Napheesa Collier and Caitlin Clark team captains for a draft selection, generating substantial earned media attention despite Clark's injury preventing her participation. The article argues the WNBA should further "eventize" regular-season games, specifically suggesting leveraging Caitlin Clark's popularity in the 2026 season by scheduling her Indiana Fever to play a game at a large or unique venue like Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis Colts' home) or Wrigley Field, noting Clark is a lifelong Cubs fan.

Proof of concept for large-scale eventizing in women's sports exists. "The Crossover at Kinnick" in 2023 set the global women's basketball single-game attendance record (55,646) by featuring Clark's Iowa Hawkeyes playing DePaul at Iowa's football stadium. Similarly, Nebraska women's volleyball set the U.S. women's sporting event attendance record (92,003) by playing at Memorial Stadium, the Cornhuskers' football venue, two months prior.

Former Iowa coach Lisa Bluder described "The Crossover" as "magical," highlighting the deep emotional impact it had on spectators, particularly women who lacked past athletic opportunities and were moved to tears seeing such a major event dedicated to women's sports. These successful, creative events at the college level demonstrate the potential for unforgettable experiences in professional women's leagues.