ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe seen crying before WNBA Fever-Tempo game
Reporter Holly Rowe was filmed expressing strong emotion before the Indiana Fever's game against the Toronto Tempo, citing the large crowd and the impact of star player Caitlin Clark.
ESPN sideline reporter Holly Rowe was recorded showing visible emotion before the Indiana Fever faced the Toronto Tempo at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday. The arena was sold out, with about 19,000 spectators attending the women's basketball matchup.
"I'm trying to work a basketball game tonight, but I keep crying because look at what they have built. I literally cannot quit crying to do my job right now. I mean, we have 19,000 people coming tonight to watch women's basketball and I'm just so proud," Rowe said during the brief video.
The game was moved to the larger venue to accommodate ticket demand, a trend analysts attribute to the presence of rookie star Caitlin Clark, whose popularity has boosted attendance and viewership for recent WNBA games. The league has noted increased ratings and audience numbers in recent weeks.
Rowe, a longtime reporter covering women's sports, has expressed support for the growth of the WNBA in past interviews. The Fever-Tempo game was part of a broader schedule that has seen several teams relocate games to larger arenas to meet fan interest.