Welp… the internet doesn’t forget.
And neither, apparently, does the WNBA front office. After a season of controversial tweets filled with thinly veiled shade — and sometimes outright hostility — toward WNBA rookie phenom Caitlin Clark, a longtime Phoenix Mercury announcer is OUT.

WNBA great says 'Black people can't be racist' as she pushes back on  criticism over Caitlin Clark remarks | Fox News

Let’s be honest: no one’s shocked.
But the timing? The silence? The “quiet exit” after a full season of drama?

Yeah… fans are definitely talking.

The Tweets That Sparked the Fire

Throughout Caitlin Clark’s record-breaking college run and highly anticipated WNBA debut, Twitter was on fire — but not always in a good way. And one of the loudest, most persistent critics?
A now-former Phoenix Mercury team-affiliated broadcaster whose timeline became a running stream of digs aimed at Clark:

Swoopes latest analyst perceived to have beef with player - Sports Media  Watch

Dismissing her talent: “Overhyped NCAA numbers don’t mean WNBA greatness.”

Undermining her media presence: “Another media darling being handed the league.”

Stirring up rivalry drama: “I’ll take Angel Reese over Caitlin any day — she actually wins.”

 

Some fans chalked it up to hot takes. Others saw something deeper — jealousy, bias, or even something personal.

The Backlash Was Immediate

 

 

Nancy Lieberman, Sheryl Swoopes Feud Over Caitlin Clark Hits A New Level |  OutKick

 

 

As Clark continued to shine — drawing sellout crowds, breaking viewership records, and helping elevate the WNBA to new heights — fans started digging. And receipts? Oh, they had plenty.

Clark’s supporters flooded replies, tagged the league, and even contacted sponsors, demanding accountability. It wasn’t just about one person’s opinion — it was about the tone, the targeting, and the consistent negativity toward the most popular rookie in league history.

Caitlin Clark is 'Taylor Swift of women's basketball': Nancy Lieberman

And as the Mercury’s own social media tried to celebrate Clark during her road games, the hypocrisy didn’t go unnoticed.

Now They’re Gone — But the Damage Is Done

No press release. No thank-you post. Just… gone.

The Mercury organization hasn’t officially commented on the departure, but league insiders suggest the “mutual parting of ways” was anything but mutual. According to reports, tensions had been brewing behind the scenes for months — especially as Clark’s fanbase grew louder and more vocal.

USA Basketball: No comment on coach tweets referencing Caitlin Clark

And in the age of digital footprints, teams are starting to realize: you can’t promote the league’s growth while undermining its stars.

Free Speech vs. Professional Standards

Let’s make one thing clear — criticism is fair. No athlete, no matter how great, should be immune to fair analysis.
But when a league-affiliated voice uses their platform to repeatedly tear down a rookie — especially one responsible for a huge uptick in revenue, attention, and attendance — that’s no longer analysis. That’s sabotage.

In a league still fighting for media space, visibility, and respect, voices tied to teams need to elevate the game, not drag it back into petty territory.

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Fans React: “Good Riddance.”

Twitter and Reddit were quick to respond:

“About time. The bias was so obvious.”
“Can’t believe this person got paid to hate-watch Caitlin Clark.”
“You don’t have to love her, but if you’re working for the WNBA, maybe stop undermining its biggest draw?”
“Clark’s changing the league. Get on board, or get out of the way.”

USA Basketball: No comment on coach tweets referencing Caitlin Clark

And frankly? Most fans agree: the league doesn’t have room for bitterness disguised as “critique.”

Final Word: The League Is Watching — And Listening

The WNBA is evolving. Bigger crowds. More TV time. Massive endorsements.


And much of that momentum is being fueled by young stars like Caitlin Clark — whether people like it or not.

So if you’re a media voice in this league — broadcaster, analyst, or even social media intern — remember: the mic is always hot, and the fans are always watching.

 

This Mercury announcer found out the hard way.