Caitlin Clark's arrival in the WNBA has ignited a surge in betting interest, particularly surrounding the Indiana Fever as the 2025 season approaches. This phenomenon, dubbed the "Caitlin Clark Effect," has sportsbooks scrambling to adjust to unprecedented levels of wagering activity.

The Indiana Fever, after several difficult seasons, have become a focal point for bettors, with many seeing them as a legitimate championship contender. This shift in perception is largely attributed to the addition of Clark, the highly touted Iowa standout. The Fever's odds of winning the WNBA Championship have shortened dramatically, reflecting the confidence bettors have in Clark's ability to transform the team. At BetMGM, the Fever are listed at +300 to win the title, behind only the New York Liberty (+225) and the Las Vegas Aces (+275). DraftKings Sportsbook also places the Liberty as favorites (+225), with the Fever, Aces, and Minnesota Lynx all at +370.

Hannah Luther, a sports trader at BetMGM Sportsbook, expressed surprise at the level of betting action on Clark and the Fever, acknowledging that they are now viewed as top contenders. DraftKings' race and sports operations director, Johnny Avello, noted the significant shift in the Fever's odds compared to the previous season, emphasizing that they are "the one team that most people are interested in".

The increased betting activity isn't limited to team futures. Caitlin Clark is also a popular pick for individual awards, with many bettors wagering on her to win the WNBA MVP award. According to BetMGM, Clark is the betting favorite for MVP, with a significant portion of MVP bets placed on her.

The "Caitlin Clark Effect" extends beyond the Indiana Fever, boosting overall WNBA betting. A study in the Journal of Gambling Business and Economics found that games featuring Clark saw a significant increase in the number of bets placed compared to other WNBA games. Games featuring Clark attracted more than twice as many additional bets as games without her. In May 2024, games featuring Clark and the Fever saw an average betting increase of 380% compared to a baseline game.

This surge in betting interest is attributed to several factors, including Clark's exceptional college career, her widespread popularity, and the media attention surrounding her WNBA debut. Her presence has not only drawn new fans to the WNBA but has also increased the league's visibility and marketability. The WNBA is capitalizing on this increased attention, with initiatives like charter flights for teams signaling a commitment to player well-being and the potential for more lucrative telecast rights deals.

As the WNBA season approaches, the "Caitlin Clark Effect" is expected to continue driving betting action and fan engagement. Sportsbooks anticipate broken records on a weekly basis, as Clark's impact on the league extends far beyond the court.