Debate Over Caitlin Clark’s Legacy and WNBA Criticism

Before becoming a star for the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark was known for her record-breaking career as a guard for the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Big Ten. Despite her impressive achievements in college basketball, Clark’s absence of national titles has raised questions about her status in the debates surrounding the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T.) in women’s college basketball.

Former Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star Sue Bird, in a recent discussion on her podcast “A Touch More,” compared Clark’s career to that of Breanna Stewart, a forward for the New York Liberty, emphasizing Stewart’s success with four NCAA championships during her time with the University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies. “In our world, in the world of women’s basketball, four national championships is the standard,” Bird remarked, explaining how the bar is set for female athletes.

Bird highlighted the differences between men’s and women’s basketball, acknowledging the enormity of making it to the Final Four, but suggesting it does not hold the same weight as multiple national titles. Co-host Megan Rapinoe added, “She’s not as amazing as Stewie,” noting the long-lasting impact of Stewart’s college career under renowned UConn coach Geno Auriemma, which included multiple Player of the Year awards.

Clark, however, faced a tougher path with the Iowa Hawkeyes, according to some observers, who point out that while Stewart joined an already dominant program, Clark’s efforts in the NCAA tournament didn’t culminate in a national championship win. This perspective fuels the ongoing debate about the greatest in women’s college hoops.

The conversation extends to discussions about the WNBA’s rising prominence, sparked in part by public opinions from sports commentators like Stephen A. Smith. Smith’s criticism of WNBA playoff ratings led to exchanges with former athletes and sparked further debate. His remarks also drew reactions from Shannon Sharpe, and he questioned why commentators would critique a league they are employed to cover.

Smith defended his stance vocally on “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” directing his comments at Sue Bird. “To be quite honest with you, I’m disgusted,” Smith stated, before labeling Bird as one of the finest people he’s encountered. Yet, he challenged her narrative about his coverage of women’s sports, asserting his role in the news was to report stories, whether positive or negative.

Smith’s response highlighted significant growth in the WNBA, noting a surge in attendance and merchandise sales, especially driven by Clark’s popularity. “Attendance for the entire league is up nearly 50 percent,” he cited, along with merchandise sales increasing by 450 percent according to Fanatics, with Clark as a top-selling player.

The exchange underscores an ongoing discourse about women’s sports and their representation in media. While Smith maintains respect for Bird and her accomplishments, he expressed dismay at feeling his intent was misinterpreted, labeling the criticism as an attack on his credibility.