Caitlin Clark being named Time’s 2024 Athlete of the Year was a huge deal for the WNBA, and many saw it as a moment of well-deserved recognition for the sport. However, instead of all-around celebration, the honor has sparked some controversy, especially after Washington Mystics co-owner Sheila Johnson voiced her dissent. 

Johnson’s comments have left fans feeling frustrated and wondering why other W players aren’t supporting CC. In a recent CNN interview, Johnson expressed her disappointment with the way Clark was singled out for the Time honor, suggesting it wasn’t the right approach. 

“It’s not just Caitlin Clark, it’s Angel Reese, as well. We have so much talent out there,” she said, arguing that a collective recognition of the league might have been a better choice. Johnson even went as far as to say that by focusing on one player, there could be “hard feelings” within the WNBA community. 

The owner’s stance was that Clark’s recognition shouldn’t overshadow the contributions of others, particularly the rising talents in the league. Her comments, however, didn’t account for the fact that the Indiana Fever star’s record-breaking performances and historic viewership have undeniably boosted the visibility of the entire league.

What did catch some attention, though, was how Clark acknowledged her privilege in her Time profile. She made it clear that she’s aware of the disparities in sponsorships and media coverage between her and fellow Black athletes, especially in a league ‘built by Black women.’ 

She voiced her commitment to pushing for greater representation for them, which Johnson fully praised. “I applaud her for saying it,” she remarked. “We’ve got to work together,” she continued, stressing that the WNBA’s growth is tied to collaboration.

Despite her support for Clark’s statement about elevating Black women, Johnson’s earlier remarks seem to have caused fans to question the WNBA’s true stance on unity. They were quick to fire back, defending the 2024 ROTY on social media.

Fans call out WNBA players for silence on Caitlin Clark’s support

Pointing fingers at WNBA stars, one wrote, “Has A’ny WNBA player supported Caitlin Clark publicly since the TIMES article? This is being talked about on CNN today! You’d think the ✌🏽sisterhood✌🏽 would have her back and stand with her since she defended them right?” “A’ny” was a not-so-subtle jab at A’ja Wilson, suggesting she might’ve taken issue with Clark’s growing stardom. Many fans feel the WNBA often sidelines Clark, and this isn’t the first time online discussions have hinted at a lack of collective support for her.

Another fan didn’t hold back, claiming, “They did the exact opposite. They hated her before she even entered the league. Pure jealousy is what this comes down to.” CC came into the WNBA with a massive brand already established, signing a groundbreaking $28 million Nike deal before her rookie season. 

Then came the controversial on-court moments. Chicago Sky’s Chennedy Carter shoulder-checked her in what was deemed a non-basketball move, later upgraded to a flagrant foul. Geno Auriemma even called it “junior high stuff.” Since then, fans have expressed their fury about their idol being ‘targeted’ by W players.

Back in June, Commissioner Cathy Engelbert brushed off claims of ‘target’ against Clark, citing a standout 30-point game during the Fever’s win over the Mystics earlier this year and suggesting fans “just look for the outcome they want.” But fans clearly didn’t buy it. 

One also penned, “I never understand why A’ja, Stewie, or Diana never speak up. Y’all have been the face of the league. Why not come in as a whole and stand up for Caitlin and help stop the nonsense?” 

“I understand all of this. I bet my last dollar if CC, A’ja, Stewie, DT, and Angel get together and speak up, the narrative can get better,” another echoed.

Lastly, one fan boldly claimed, “A’ja helped throw gasoline on the fire at the beginning of the season because of CC’s Nike deal. It was then revealed weeks later that A’ja had already signed a deal with Nike the year prior.” Adding to the intrigue, there’s been no sign of a signature shoe for Clark yet, while Nike reportedly prioritizes A’ja’s line. 

The debate over white privilege resurfaced after a viral video featuring A’ja and Kelsey Plum commenting on how a few players benefit from it. While opinions vary wildly, Clark’s growing fanbase can’t be ignored. Whether the silence from WNBA players signals agreement with her stance or mere indifference, her presence continues to spark crucial conversations. Let’s see if anyone speaks out or if the silence persists.