As the 2024-25 women’s college basketball season kicks off, fans are buzzing about the recent changes in team rosters and player statuses. Notably, the Iowa Hawkeyes have dropped out of the top 25 rankings following Caitlin Clark’s selection as the first overall pick in the WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever. Similarly, the LSU Tigers will be navigating a new era under the leadership of Flau’jae Johnson after Angel Reese joined the Chicago Sky. In light of these significant shifts, ESPN shared a graphic celebrating the start of the season, which has sparked a surprising amount of confusion among viewers.
The graphic features images of notable former college players like Clark, Reese, Cameron Brink, and Rickea Jackson, set against a backdrop of clouds. This creative choice was intended to symbolize the transition from one generation of stars to the next, as captioned by ESPN: “The torch has been passed.” However, many fans interpreted the cloud imagery as an ominous tribute, suggesting an unintended implication of mourning for the players rather than a celebration of their achievements. This led to a flurry of reactions on social media, as fans expressed bewilderment over the graphic’s portrayal.
Social media has lit up with reactions ranging from disbelief to humor. One fan pointedly noted, “They didn’t die,” while another echoed similar sentiments, questioning the appropriateness of the imagery. Additionally, the absence of Flau’jae Johnson from the graphic did not go unnoticed. Many fans expressed their disappointment and confusion over why such a prominent player was overlooked in this homage to the sport’s rising stars.
Critics have also taken aim at the design choices made in the graphic, questioning why the players are depicted in clouds and what the orange color scheme signifies. Comments such as “Terrible graphic design decision” highlight a consensus that the visual representation could have been executed more thoughtfully. This graphic has thus sparked not only discussions about player recognition but also about the overall aesthetic choices in sports marketing.
Despite the mixed reactions to the graphic, the upcoming season promises to be filled with excitement. The South Carolina Gamecocks, even without key player Kamilla Cardoso, are still strong contenders for the national title. Meanwhile, Paige Bueckers from UConn and Juju Watkins from USC are poised to make significant impacts as they lead their respective teams. As the new season unfolds, fans are eagerly anticipating the thrilling matches and standout performances that are sure to come.
