Few WNBA players have been able to capture the attention of the entire sports world, and Caitlin Clark is certainly one of them. Her rookie season was must-see TV last summer, and the league is looking forward to more of the same this year.

Ahead of Clark’s second season, several teams have announced larger venues for their games against the Indiana Fever. The Washington Mystics employed this strategy last season and set an all-time attendance record with over 20,000 fans at Capital One Arena.

The Fever will also be featured prominently on national television this season, as Clark’s games often drew massive ratings numbers in her rookie year. It’s clear that the WNBA is all in on Clark, and one former star says she isn’t surprised.

“I think it’s all about money, marketing, and we can’t deny what Caitlin Clark has done for the women’s game,” said Olympic gold medalist and WNBA legend Lisa Leslie on USA TODAY’s “Sports Seriously.”

“She’s had a huge effect….have we ever had teams need larger arenas? No, we have not. So if we want more eyeballs on the game, and Caitlin Clark brings that, why would we feel some kind of way?”

Leslie said that Clark’s success is shared throughout the league, and that when she does well, everyone else also gets a chance to shine.

“When one player eats, we all eat,” Leslie said. “When one gets more opportunities, it just opens it up for everyone else.”

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – FEBRUARY 17: Coach Lisa Leslie of Team Ryan looks on during the third quarter in the 2023 NBA All Star Ruffles Celebrity Game at Vivint Arena on February 17, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

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Leslie noted that Clark has been appreciative of and respectful toward the women who paved the way for her success, and said she appreciated that acknowledgment as a legend of the game.

“I don’t know what the big deal is about the fact that Caitlin is getting a lot of love. She deserves it,” Leslie added.

“She’s helped change this game – just as a lot of other players have. But it is what it is, and I think we are all benefitting from the effect that she’s had on the game.”

Clark and the Fever will return in May to begin the WNBA season. They’ve brought in new players like Sophie Cunningham and DeWanna Bonner this offseason, as well as a new head coach in Stephanie White.