In the world of basketball, few names carry as much weight as Sue Bird, one of the greatest point guards in the history of the WNBA and international basketball. With a career spanning over two decades, Bird’s accolades are undeniable—multiple Olympic gold medals, four WNBA championships, and countless individual honors. But what makes her even more respected is her unwavering voice when it comes to defending the next generation of players. Recently, Bird used her platform to stand up for Caitlin Clark, the Iowa star whose exclusion from certain “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) college basketball rankings sparked a firestorm of controversy.

Caitlin Clark: A Historic Talent

Caitlin Clark is no stranger to breaking barriers. The Iowa guard has taken college basketball by storm with her unparalleled shooting range, high basketball IQ, and ability to take over games. Her deep three-pointers, often made from several feet behind the arc, have revolutionized how women’s basketball is played. Clark’s incredible statistics, including setting multiple NCAA records, have made her the face of women’s college basketball.

Throughout her college career, Clark has amassed awards such as the Naismith College Player of the Year, and she has led Iowa to new heights in the NCAA tournament, including an appearance in the national championship game. She’s captivated fans with her playmaking, swagger, and leadership, solidifying her place as one of the most electrifying players in college basketball, men’s or women’s.

However, despite her achievements, some college basketball GOAT rankings have notably left Clark out of the conversation, especially when it comes to the overall list of top players in college history. The snub didn’t sit well with many, including Sue Bird, who quickly took to social media to express her frustration over the disrespect directed toward Clark.

The GOAT Snub: A Controversial Oversight

The debate about who belongs in the GOAT conversation in college basketball is a common one, with legends like Michael Jordan, Bill Russell, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar frequently topping the men’s side of the discussion. On the women’s side, players like Diana Taurasi, Tamika Catchings, and Cheryl Miller are often celebrated for their impact on the game. But as the women’s game continues to evolve, so too does the conversation about who deserves to be considered the greatest of all time in college basketball.

Clark’s exclusion from some of these all-time rankings has drawn sharp criticism from fans and analysts alike. For many, it feels as though Clark’s incredible accomplishments are being overshadowed, despite the fact that her style of play has redefined what is possible in college basketball. From her jaw-dropping scoring performances to her ability to carry her team through high-pressure situations, Clark’s career has been nothing short of legendary.

However, rankings often reflect a combination of longevity, championships, and the impact a player has had on the game, and it seems that Clark’s place in history—despite her immense talent—has been questioned, particularly by certain analysts who still consider players with longer careers or more team success to be more deserving of GOAT status.

That’s when Sue Bird stepped in.

Sue Bird’s Defense of Caitlin Clark

As a pioneer in women’s basketball, Sue Bird has always been a staunch advocate for elevating women’s sports to the level of their male counterparts. Bird’s leadership on the court and her status as an icon in the game gives her a unique perspective on the value of players like Caitlin Clark, and she’s not afraid to speak out when it matters.

After the ranking snub, Bird took to Twitter, expressing her disappointment and frustration. In a series of posts, she made it clear that Clark’s impact on the college game should not be overlooked or minimized. Bird pointed out that Clark’s style of play—her ability to stretch defenses, create plays, and change the way the game is played—is precisely what makes her deserving of GOAT consideration, regardless of the number of championships or the number of years she has been in college basketball.

“I get it. Rankings are subjective. But anyone who watches Caitlin Clark play knows she’s revolutionizing the game. Let’s not diminish that,” Bird tweeted. “Clark has done things that no one has done before. The GOAT conversation is about more than just stats and championships—it’s about influence, and Caitlin has that in spades.”

Bird continued to emphasize that the evolution of the game, especially on the women’s side, has been shaped by players like Clark, whose shooting range and playmaking ability have pushed the boundaries of what was once considered possible in women’s college basketball.

Bird’s support didn’t stop with just a tweet; she also went on to discuss the issue in interviews, where she further highlighted how Clark’s contributions have inspired an entire generation of players. “The women’s game has always needed players who can push boundaries. Caitlin Clark is one of those players. It’s about time we start recognizing how much she’s changed the game.”

The Bigger Picture: Respect for Women’s Basketball

Sue Bird’s defense of Caitlin Clark goes beyond a single ranking. It’s part of a larger conversation about respect and recognition for women’s basketball as a whole. Historically, the women’s game has been underappreciated and overshadowed by its male counterpart. Female athletes have had to fight for visibility, respect, and equal recognition, and when players like Clark emerge—players who redefine what is possible—it’s crucial to celebrate and elevate their impact.

Bird’s comments also serve as a reminder that women’s sports are not just about traditional measurements of success, such as championships or longevity. It’s about influence, innovation, and the ability to inspire. Caitlin Clark’s unprecedented style of play has already changed the way the game is approached, and her impact will be felt long after she’s graduated from college.

In many ways, Bird’s support for Clark is a call to action. It’s a reminder that the women’s game deserves to be viewed with the same reverence and seriousness as the men’s game. If a player like Caitlin Clark, who has achieved so much in such a short time, is not included in the GOAT conversation, then it speaks to a larger issue of how women’s sports are still being evaluated and respected.

What’s Next for Caitlin Clark?

Despite the snub, Caitlin Clark remains focused on her game and continuing to make history. She’s already cemented her legacy as one of the most talented and influential players in college basketball, and no ranking can take that away from her. But the fact that someone of Sue Bird’s stature has come to her defense is a clear sign that Clark’s influence on the game is undeniable, and that she has the full support of those who understand the true impact of her work.

As Clark continues to break records, win accolades, and inspire millions, it’s clear that her place in the history of women’s basketball is already secured. Whether she wins more championships or not, her legacy is much bigger than any ranking—she has already changed the game in ways few could have imagined.

Conclusion: A Reminder of the Value of Women’s Sports

Sue Bird’s stand for Caitlin Clark is a powerful reminder that, in sports, greatness is about more than just numbers. It’s about the way a player changes the game, pushes the boundaries of what’s possible, and inspires others to follow. While rankings may come and go, Caitlin Clark’s influence on college basketball is undeniable, and her place in history is already secure.

Sue Bird’s support not only elevates Clark but also shines a light on the ongoing fight for respect and recognition for women’s sports. In the years to come, the names of Clark, Bird, and other pioneers will be remembered for their contributions to a game that is constantly evolving, and for the younger generation that will continue to push the sport forward. It’s time for the world to recognize what those in the game already know: Caitlin Clark is one of the greatest to ever play.