Once seen as one of the most promising young stars in the league, Chennedy Carter now finds herself at a crossroads — and the road ahead may not include the WNBA.

Chennedy Carter rips Caitlin Clark's game on social media

Her talent has never been in question. From her electrifying college days at Texas A&M to her early flashes of brilliance in the pros, Chennedy Carter was expected to be a franchise cornerstone. But in 2025, the narrative has completely flipped. Between locker room tensions, on-court controversy, and inconsistent playing time, insiders and fans alike are now asking:

Is this the end of the road for Carter in the W?

From Rising Star to Roster Risk

Let’s rewind.

Chennedy Carter will be an unrestricted free agent after Sky decide not to extend a qualifying offer - Chicago Sun-Times

Chennedy was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2020 WNBA Draft. She came in hot — averaging over 17 points per game as a rookie and turning heads with her fearless drives and elite shot creation. But behind the highlights, issues with coaching staffs and teammates began to surface.

Her abrupt exit from the Atlanta Dream in 2021, following reports of internal conflict, was the first red flag. Then came a quiet stint with the Sparks, where playing time dried up and her role became unclear. And now — after her controversial hit on rookie Caitlin Clark made headlines — things have reached a boiling point.

2 WNBA teams that should consider giving Chennedy Carter a chance

League Executives “Concerned”

Multiple sources around the league have suggested Carter’s future is uncertain.

“There’s no doubt she can hoop — but teams are worried about chemistry. Coaches want players who buy in.”
— Anonymous WNBA scout

“She’s at a point where she either reinvents her image, or risks being out of the league entirely.”
— Former WNBA player turned analyst

Chennedy Carter And Angel Reese Are Targets Of An Indiana Congressman

The Caitlin Clark Incident: Final Straw?

During a nationally televised game earlier this season, Carter delivered a hard shoulder-check to Caitlin Clark — away from the ball and completely unprovoked. The clip went viral. Fans called it dirty. Pundits called it reckless.

WNBA upgrades foul on Caitlin Clark by Chennedy Carter, fines Angel Reese for no postgame interview

Carter’s response?

“I said what I said. I did what I did.”

No apology. No explanation.
And while some praised her toughness, others saw it as a clear example of the attitude that’s kept her from thriving.

Chennedy Carter declined to speak but continues to taunt Caitlin Clark in another way | Marca

Where Does She Go From Here?

Here are the possibilities:

Option 1: Another WNBA team takes a chance. It’s possible a rebuilding squad could sign her, hoping to harness her talent and give her a clean slate.

Option 2: Overseas reset. Many former WNBA stars have found new life in Europe, Turkey, or Asia. Carter could dominate in an international league and return later.

Option 3: Done for good. If no teams are willing to take the risk, Carter could go unsigned and become another cautionary tale of wasted potential.

 

Caitlin Clark BODYCHECKED by Chennedy Carter - who appears to yell 'you b***h' before lashing out - and escapes with just a personal foul as Indiana Fever play Chicago Sky | Daily

 

 

Is It a Maturity Issue — Or Just Misunderstood?

To be fair, Carter has always played with fire. That’s part of what made her special. But in a league that values culture, coachability, and consistency, the margin for error is slim — and Carter may have used up her last strike.

Some fans argue she’s been unfairly painted as a villain. Others say her actions have spoken louder than any narrative.

 

 Final Word:

Chennedy Carter isn’t just fighting for minutes anymore — she’s fighting for her career.
The talent is still there. But if she can’t rebuild trust and change the perception around her name, the WNBA might just move on without her.