Just a day ago, news broke that Caitlin Clark has joined efforts to bring a potential expansion franchise to Cincinnati, aiming for a spot in the National Women’s Soccer League as early as next year. While the city’s bid is not yet guaranteed, as it faces competition from other contenders, a recent report highlights the significant growth both the WNBA and NWSL could experience in the years ahead, proving for a right move from the 2024 ROTY.

A post on X summarized key insights from the Wasserman Collective report, stating, “Taking this new framework into consideration, the value of WNBA & NWSL teams is anticipated to increase by at least $1.6B in the next 3 years, and that the baseline growth for team valuations in the WNBA and NWSL will exceed $4.3 billion over the next three years.”

Seems like Clark jumped on the wagon just in time.

Although the Indiana Fever cannot just yet claim ownership of a WNBA team, her decision to invest in an NWSL franchise could significantly enhance her off-court business portfolio, especially as the league is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. The report further noted that over 60% of the projected growth will stem from broadcast viewership and gameday attendance.

FC Cincinnati expressed their excitement in a statement, saying,“The NWSL Cincinnati bid team is thrilled that Caitlin Clark has joined our ownership group in pursuit of bringing a women’s professional soccer team to our city.” However, achieving this expansion goal won’t be easy, as they face strong competition from other rival bids.

Cincinnati and Cleveland compete for NWSL expansion spot, with Caitlin Clark adding star power

Cincinnati might have a head start in the NWSL expansion race, thanks to its state-of-the-art TQL Stadium, which opened in 2021. But don’t count Cleveland out just yet—they’re making serious strides. Their ownership group has locked in a prime 13.6-acre location right across from Progressive Field, setting the stage for a $150 million stadium project. The venue is planned to accommodate 12,500 fans, with room to grow to 20,000, showing they’re ready to compete.

Landing the NWSL’s 16th team won’t come cheap. According to multiple sources, the expansion fee could climb to nearly $100 million—a significant jump from the $53 million Boston and Bay FC shelled out to join the league in 2023. While it remains uncertain if Cincinnati will claim the coveted spot, their ownership group is buzzing with excitement, especially with Caitlin Clark now part of the team.

“Her passion for the sport, commitment to elevating women’s sports in and around the Greater Cincinnati region, and influence as an athlete and role model for women and girls around the world, make her a vital part of our compelling bid to become the 16th team in the NWSL,” Cincinnati officials said in the statement.

Well, Clark’s influence goes beyond basketball. Her participation in The Annika Pro-Am at Florida’s Pelican Golf Club led to a reported 1200% surge in ticket sales, highlighting her massive appeal. In her WNBA debut season, she shattered viewership records and drew record-breaking crowds, including the league’s attendance record in her final regular-season game. Now, with her involvement in the NWSL expansion bid, Clark’s impact could soon extend to women’s soccer, a sport already primed for significant growth.