A’ja Wilson & WNBA’s Cold Shoulder to Caitlin Clark Invites Fan Fury as Fever Star’s Success Gets Downplayed
Caitlin Clark being named Time’s 2024 Athlete of the Year was a huge deal for the WNBA, and many saw it as a moment of well-deserved recognition for the sport. However, instead of all-around celebration, the honor has sparked some controversy, especially after Washington Mystics co-owner Sheila Johnson voiced her dissent.
Johnson’s comments have left fans feeling frustrated and wondering why other W players aren’t supporting CC. In a recent CNN interview, Johnson expressed her disappointment with the way Clark was singled out for the Time honor, suggesting it wasn’t the right approach.
“It’s not just Caitlin Clark, it’s Angel Reese, as well. We have so much talent out there,” she said, arguing that a collective recognition of the league might have been a better choice. Johnson even went as far as to say that by focusing on one player, there could be “hard feelings” within the WNBA community.
The owner’s stance was that Clark’s recognition shouldn’t overshadow the contributions of others, particularly the rising talents in the league. Her comments, however, didn’t account for the fact that the Indiana Fever star’s record-breaking performances and historic viewership have undeniably boosted the visibility of the entire league.
What did catch some attention, though, was how Clark acknowledged her privilege in her Time profile. She made it clear that she’s aware of the disparities in sponsorships and media coverage between her and fellow Black athletes, especially in a league ‘built by Black women.’
She voiced her commitment to pushing for greater representation for them, which Johnson fully praised. “I applaud her for saying it,” she remarked. “We’ve got to work together,” she continued, stressing that the WNBA’s growth is tied to collaboration.
Despite her support for Clark’s statement about elevating Black women, Johnson’s earlier remarks seem to have caused fans to question the WNBA’s true stance on unity. They were quick to fire back, defending Clark on social media.
Fans call out WNBA players for silence on Caitlin Clark’s support
While another opined, “I never understand why Aja, Stewie, or Diana never speak up. Y’all have been the face of the league. Why not come in as a whole and stand up for Caitlin and help stop the no sense. The owners are no better, so what makes you think the players would. I guess”
Per fans, no WNBA player has really stepped up publicly to support her. Honestly, it’s not the first time we’re hearing about this online. Fans have often felt that W sidelines CC.
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