
via Imago
Image credits: Imago

via Imago
Image credits: Imago
Caitlin Clark returned to the court after 222 days, and the reception was nothing short of electric. Call it fate or just perfect timing, but her comeback game after a long offseason break happened right where it all began: Carver-Hawkeye Arena. She had skipped the Unrivaled league to focus on her body and recover from the gruelling year. And now, on May 4, Iowa’s favorite daughter came home. A homecoming to remember. A homecoming that, unsurprisingly, broke records once again. At this point, it’s just what Caitlin Clark does.
When the Indiana Fever announced they’d play an exhibition game at Iowa’s Carver-Hawkeye Arena on May 4, it caused chaos—in the best way possible. Tickets were priced between $70 and $250 (plus a $6 fee), and the moment they went on sale on February 28, they were gone in just 45 minutes. A full-blown sellout. With 15,000 fans packing the arena, the atmosphere was expected to be electric. When game day arrived–it lived up to the hype. But what about the viewership? That’s where things got even more impressive.
According to ESPN’s Flora Kelly, the Brazil vs. Fever game drew 1.3 million viewers—a huge number for a preseason matchup. To put that into perspective, only two of ESPN’s 57 NBA preseason games since 2010 have pulled in more viewers. And yes, both involved LeBron James. One was in 2017—Cavs vs. Bulls. The other? 2018—Warriors vs. Lakers. LeBron’s debut preseason with the Lakers.
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Lebron & Clark
The Brazil/Fever game came in at 1.3M – wonderful for a preseason game
Only 2 of ESPN’s 57 NBA preseason games since 2010 drew a higher audience & both featured Lebron
2017 Cavs/Bull- the year the Cavs lost the Finals
2018 Warriors/Lakers- after Lebron went to LA— Flora Kelly (@ESPNFlora) May 6, 2025
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever steamrolled Team Brazil, cruising to a dominant 108-44 win. The Indiana superstar sat out the final quarter but still finished with 16 points, five assists, and six rebounds. Along the way, she delivered some unforgettable highlights–including a deep logo three.It was a homecoming to remember. And the numbers prove it.
Brazil’s head coach had high praise for Caitlin Clark after the game. Let’s take a look at what he had to say.
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Caitlin Clark's return drew LeBron-level viewers—Is she the new face of basketball greatness?
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Brazil coach praises Caitlin Clark
After the Indiana Fever steamrolled the Brazil National Team, a heartwarming scene unfolded. Brazilian players lined up postgame–not to complain, but to get Caitlin Clark’s autograph. The respect was clear. Her impact on the court? Undeniable. Even Brazil head coach Leo Figueiro made sure to congratulate her during the second quarter of the 108-44 rout.
“You’re an amazing player, congratulations,” Brazil’s head coach Figueiro told Caitlin Clark during the game. She was mic’d up, so fans got to hear it all.“You’ve changed the history in basketball,” he added, showing just how far her reach goes—even internationally. Clark smiled and replied, “I appreciate it. Thanks for coming here and playing us.” She then asked, “Is this the most people you’ve played in front of?” Figueiro laughed and said, “Yeah.”
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It was a record-breaking night for Caitlin Clark and the Fever. Her impact on the game keeps reaching new heights with each performance. The way she’s elevating the women’s game will never be forgotten. And honestly, this is just the beginning. Stay tuned for more updates!
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"Caitlin Clark's return drew LeBron-level viewers—Is she the new face of basketball greatness?"