Fever Star Caitlin Clark Challenges WNBA Rivals to Play on Iconic NBA Court

Clark wants to see WNBA games played at Madison Square Garden and other big NBA arenas.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Caitlin Clark, star player for the Indiana Fever, made headlines during her broadcasting debut on NBC Sports when she issued a bold challenge to the rest of the WNBA. Clark expressed her desire to see WNBA games played at iconic NBA arenas like Madison Square Garden, saying 'We got to talk to Adam about that (playing at MSG). Even if it is a preseason game, we need to get it done.' Clark's comments came after she attended a Knicks game at MSG, where she was inspired by the electric atmosphere.

Why it matters

Clark's comments highlight the WNBA's ongoing efforts to raise the profile of the league and attract more fans. Playing games at renowned NBA venues could help generate more excitement and exposure for the WNBA. As one of the league's rising stars, Clark's voice carries weight, and her willingness to publicly advocate for this idea could spur further discussions between the WNBA and NBA.

The details

During her NBC Sports broadcast debut, Clark made it clear she wants to see WNBA games played at iconic NBA arenas like Madison Square Garden. She was inspired by the atmosphere at the Knicks game she attended, saying 'It is when you are out on the court warming up. There's a different type of buzz.' Clark acknowledged the New York Liberty may not want to give up a home game, but she challenged the WNBA to 'get it done' and play at least a preseason game at MSG.

  • Clark made her comments during her NBC Sports broadcasting debut on February 1, 2026.
  • Clark attended a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on the same night as her broadcasting debut.

The players

Caitlin Clark

A star player for the Indiana Fever in the WNBA, known for her dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities. She missed significant time in the 2025 season due to injuries but is now healthy and energized for the upcoming season.

Adam Silver

The current commissioner of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

New York Liberty

The WNBA team based in New York City, which plays its home games at the Barclays Center.

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What they’re saying

“First time in the MSG for a Knicks game… We got to talk to Adam about that (playing at MSG). Even if it is a preseason game, we need to get it done. I don't think the Liberty will wanna move a game over here. But hopefully anybody… I think, as a player, this is kind of when you feel the atmosphere the most.”

— Caitlin Clark (NBC Sports)

“It is when you are out on the court warming up. There's a different type of buzz. Obviously, when LeBron comes to town, it is probably really different. But Knicks fans are crazy, and I love it. I love that people are passionate about basketball. It is pretty incredible.”

— Caitlin Clark (NBC Sports)

What’s next

Clark's comments have sparked discussions about the possibility of the WNBA playing games at NBA arenas like Madison Square Garden. The WNBA and NBA will likely need to have further conversations to determine if and when such an arrangement could be made, potentially starting with a preseason game.

The takeaway

Caitlin Clark's bold challenge to the WNBA highlights the league's ongoing efforts to raise its profile and attract more fans. By playing games at iconic NBA venues like Madison Square Garden, the WNBA could generate more excitement and exposure, helping to grow the sport of women's basketball.