Caitlin Clark effect: Iowa generated more than $3.2 million in ticket sales in 2023-24

Iowa's women's basketball program achieved a remarkable milestone during Caitlin Clark's final season, generating over $3.2 million in home ticket sales, setting a new Big Ten record. The Hawkeyes sold out every home game for the 2023-24 season three months in advance, making them the first women’s basketball program in the Big Ten to accomplish such a feat. Additionally, Iowa broke its own attendance record for the second consecutive year, surpassing the previous season's $1.4 million in ticket sales.

Clark's popularity significantly boosted ticket sales not just for Iowa but for other Big Ten teams as well. All of Iowa's road games were sold out, contributing to an impressive increase of nearly $1.5 million in ticket sales from the previous fiscal year for six other schools. However, fiscal year statements from Indiana and Rutgers are still pending, and Northwestern, being a private institution, is not subject to the same reporting requirements.

Despite Clark's transition to the WNBA, Iowa's women's basketball program is expected to continue its ticket sales success. The upcoming 2024-25 season is projected to exceed the previously set revenue mark, building on the momentum generated by Clark’s impressive performances and the program's growing popularity. Remarkably, this season was the first where Iowa's women's team outperformed the men's team in ticket sales, with the men's program seeing a decline of over $500,000 to $2.9 million.

Fans are excited to welcome Clark back to Carver-Hawkeye Arena for a special jersey retirement ceremony scheduled against No. 4 USC. Ticket prices are soaring, with the cheapest option on the secondary market listed at $171, reflecting the high demand to commemorate Clark's legacy at Iowa.

Overall, Iowa's women's basketball program not only set financial records but also reinforced its status as a powerhouse in women's athletics, attracting significant attention and support from fans and communities alike.