In the ever-evolving world of sports, opinions from high-profile personalities can often stir the pot — and that’s exactly what Charles Barkley has done recently, causing a stir within the WNBA community. His comments about Caitlin Clark have ignited a wave of criticism and frustration from several players in the WNBA, who feel that the NBA legend’s words not only misrepresent Clark’s impact on the sport but also overshadow the achievements of established WNBA players.

So, what exactly did Barkley say, and why are so many WNBA players upset with him?

Charles Barkley’s Comments on Caitlin Clark

It all started when Barkley, known for his bold and often controversial opinions, praised Caitlin Clark, the superstar guard from Iowa who had dominated college basketball in recent years. Barkley, who was a guest on various sports media outlets, discussed the growing hype around Clark, especially following her remarkable performances during the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. He even went as far as calling Clark “the most exciting thing in women’s basketball”, a comment that many WNBA players found problematic.

While it’s undeniable that Caitlin Clark has brought a lot of attention to women’s basketball with her incredible shooting and high-scoring games, it’s Barkley’s disparaging tone about the WNBA that caused the backlash. During a heated segment, Barkley suggested that Clark’s potential to transition into the WNBA would make her a “game-changer” for the league, implying that she was the missing piece for elevating the WNBA’s popularity to new heights.

He even said, “If Caitlin Clark can come into the WNBA and do what she’s doing in college, then the league might finally start getting the respect it deserves.”

While Barkley’s comments about Clark were intended as praise, many felt his words were unintentionally dismissive of the countless WNBA players who have been putting in work for years to make the league what it is today.

The WNBA Players’ Frustration

The primary reason why many WNBA players took issue with Barkley’s comments is the underlying implication that the league is lacking excitement or appeal and that Clark’s entry into the league is the key to changing that. For players who have worked tirelessly to elevate the WNBA, Barkley’s remarks felt like a slap in the face.

Here’s why:

Undermining the Efforts of Current Stars: The WNBA has long had an incredibly talented roster of players — from veterans like Sue Bird, Diana Taurasi, and Sylvia Fowles to emerging stars like Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Arike Ogunbowale. These players have paved the way for the league’s growth, bringing attention to the game through their performances, activism, and social media presence. Barkley’s suggestion that Caitlin Clark’s mere arrival could be a “game-changer” felt dismissive of the established stars who have already been contributing to the league’s success.

Caitlin Clark’s Impact Is Undeniable — But So Is the WNBA’s: No one is denying that Clark’s rise to stardom has brought incredible visibility to women’s basketball, especially after her historic tournament run. However, WNBA players are understandably upset because it feels as though Barkley is implying that Clark’s entry into the WNBA would somehow be the league’s savior — a responsibility that the league’s players have been carrying for years. The WNBA has already grown significantly in recent years, both in terms of viewership and support, thanks to the dedication of the players, coaches, and front offices. So to suggest that Clark is the key to the league’s growth strikes many as both unfair and unrealistic.

The Gender Bias and Disrespect: Barkley’s comments also touch on a deeper issue of gender bias and disrespect towards women’s sports. For years, women’s basketball has had to fight for the same level of recognition and respect that men’s basketball automatically receives. WNBA players already know that their league doesn’t get the same media coverage, financial support, or fan attention as the NBA. Barkley’s comments seem to reinforce this by framing Clark as the exception to the rule — as if she’s the only player capable of bringing widespread attention to the league. It’s a form of othering that many players feel undermines the growth of women’s sports overall.

The Double Standard: Why Is Clark the “Savior”?

Another element of Barkley’s statement that raised eyebrows was the idea that Caitlin Clark, a college player, might be the “savior” of the WNBA, while established WNBA stars like Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson, and Nneka Ogwumike don’t receive the same kind of mainstream attention.

Why is Clark seen as the answer to the WNBA’s popularity issues, while the league’s existing superstars — who have been dominating for years — are often left out of the spotlight?

The difference, of course, lies in gender biases and the inherent double standards that exist when it comes to women in sports. Clark’s rise is largely tied to her exceptional college performances, which are often covered by mainstream media outlets that typically ignore the WNBA. The success of female athletes in college sports is often sensationalized when it occurs, but when it comes to the professional level, these same athletes are often overshadowed by their male counterparts.

The Role of the WNBA in the Broader Landscape

WNBA players have been at the forefront of advocating for gender equality in sports and have worked tirelessly to elevate their league and the sport of women’s basketball. From social justice movements to increased visibility on social media, WNBA athletes have used their platforms to push for change. They’ve been vocal about issues like pay equity and the need for better resources and opportunities in women’s professional sports.

While Clark has certainly had an incredible impact on college basketball, many WNBA players believe that the current narrative around her diminishes the hard work they’ve done to make the league what it is today. It’s as if the WNBA’s efforts and the struggles of its athletes are erased in favor of a new savior narrative that’s too reliant on one player.

Caitlin Clark’s Role in the Future of Women’s Basketball

Despite the tension surrounding Barkley’s comments, it’s important to note that Caitlin Clark is still a rising star, and she does have the potential to make a major impact in the WNBA. Whether or not she will be “the game-changer” that Barkley envisioned remains to be seen, but it’s clear that her presence would add even more excitement to the women’s professional basketball scene.

However, WNBA players want to make it clear that the league does not need a savior — it needs consistent support, media attention, and respect for the athletes who have been playing at an elite level for years. Caitlin Clark is a phenomenal player, and she will undoubtedly be an incredible asset to the WNBA if she joins, but it’s essential that the contributions of existing WNBA stars are not overlooked.

Conclusion: What’s Next?

The comments by Charles Barkley have sparked a much-needed conversation about the future of women’s basketball and the importance of acknowledging all the athletes who have contributed to its growth. While Caitlin Clark’s rise is impressive, the WNBA’s players deserve equal recognition for the hard work they’ve put into building a league that has become a cornerstone of professional women’s sports.

WNBA players hope that, moving forward, we can focus on elevating the entire league rather than relying on the idea that one player — no matter how talented — can single-handedly change the narrative. The WNBA is already here, and its stars have been delivering spectacular basketball for years.