The WNBA has been steadily rising in popularity, with fans increasingly flocking to arenas to watch top-tier professional women athletes compete.
The league boasts renowned players like Sue Bird, A’ja Wilson, and Candace Parker, but according to Philadelphia 76ers icon Charles Barkley, the arrival of newcomer Caitlin Clark has overshadowed these established stars.
Caitlin Clark turns photographer during her Fever pregame warm-ups
During a recent episode of “Steam Room,” Charles Barkley and co-host Ernie Johnson discussed the surge of media attention Clark has received since joining the league. Barkley expressed his concerns that while Clark‘s prominence is beneficial, it might diminish the visibility of other seasoned players.
The discussion highlighted that the Indiana Fever, Clark‘s team, has seen a significant increase in their games being broadcast nationally.
Barkley offers his take
Barkley, known for his forthright opinions, clarified that he has no issues with the Fever‘s games being televised but is concerned about the impact on other star players and potential future legends such as Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner.
“When I first saw the WNBA TV schedule, the first thing I said was, ‘Oh sh*t.’ I said, ‘There’s going to be a negative impact, blowback from players, from media,” Barkley said.
“You would think that the people who run the WNBA would be smart enough to know that there was gonna be blowback.”
Barkley pointed out that while he doesn’t blame Clark for the spotlight she receives, he is critical of the league’s marketing strategies that might inadvertently sideline players who have dedicated years to the WNBA and contributed significantly to its legacy.
“Not to put her in a position because she is a shining star and I know you have to show her,” he added.
“I think it’s important we show her but I think that’s overkill in my personal opinion.”