Of course it will fall if there is no Clark replacement. Did anyone say otherwise? I certainly don’t watch women’s sports (for a reason) but why is everybody’s first reaction to this absolutely incredible number that trounces other much more interesting sports, to try and tear it down? What does that add to the conversation?
The point is that women’s basketball numbers are growing. It will likely take a huge cut next year, as everybody realizes. But if the numbers are 70% lower next year, they still are showing a massive growth trajectory. It makes sense why ESPN continues to push this event, because the interest is growing like crazy.