Christine Brennan on Caitlin Clark’s cultural influence and the WNBA’s growing pains

The IBJ Podcast with Mason King

In this episode of the IBJ Podcast, USA Today columnist and sports broadcasting veteran Christine Brennan speaks with IBJ's Mickey Shuey about "On Her Game," her bestselling unauthorized biography of Indiana Fever’s star Caitlyn Clark. Brennan explains how a chance encounter at the Olympic swimming trials led to a whirlwind book deal, and why Clark’s impact on attendance, viewership and cultural visibility is unlike anything women’s team sports have seen.

She also speaks candidly about the WNBA’s handling of Clark’s debut, arguing that league leadership failed to prepare for her arrival and continues to struggle with how to balance promotion, parity and politics. Brennan shares the story behind her viral press conference questions, including one about Clark’s social media activity following a Kamala Harris endorsement, and reflects on what it means to report critically and fairly on the league's biggest star.

Plus, Brennan offers her take on Indianapolis’ vision to become the capital of women’s sports, praises the city’s execution of the WNBA All-Star weekend—even without Clark on the court—and urges leaders to keep Clark in Indy as long as possible.