WNBA star A’ja Wilson and Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles recently appeared on the cover of Time magazine. In an interview, Wilson discussed comments made by Caitlin Clark, a standout rookie in the WNBA, who openly acknowledged the advantages she has as a white athlete. Clark, who won WNBA Rookie of the Year after an impressive season, was also named Time’s Athlete of the Year. She used the platform to highlight the contributions of Black athletes in the league.
Clark stated that while she has worked hard to achieve success, she recognizes that being white has given her certain privileges in the sports world. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging the role Black players have played in shaping the WNBA and called for more investment in them. According to Clark, appreciating and supporting these athletes through endorsements and sponsorships is essential to growing the league.
Wilson found Clark’s comments meaningful, calling them “powerful.” She spoke about the struggles Black women face in the WNBA, explaining that their contributions are often overshadowed by external narratives. Despite working tirelessly, she said, Black athletes have to put in even more effort just to receive the same level of recognition. She expressed gratitude for allies like Clark, who use their platforms to advocate for equity.
She also pointed out the unfortunate reality that discussions about racial privilege are still necessary in 2025. Wilson emphasized that Black women in sports see and feel the disparities every day. Having white athletes acknowledge these inequities, she said, is impactful because they often have access to spaces and opportunities that Black players do not.
Although Clark faced backlash for her remarks, Wilson defended her, stating that the criticism was unwarranted. She acknowledged that speaking out on race and privilege is controversial but expressed frustration that Black athletes must not only deal with these issues but also constantly prove themselves. She questioned why she and others like her must work significantly harder just to be recognized at the same level as their peers.
Wilson shared her personal struggles with being overlooked despite her undeniable talent and success. She explained that no matter how much she achieves, there are always attempts to downplay her accomplishments. However, she remains determined to rise to the top, fueled by her passion and dedication to the game.
Her dominance in the league is undeniable—Wilson secured the WNBA MVP award unanimously after delivering an outstanding season, averaging 26.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. Her performance solidified her status as one of the league’s most elite players, proving her hard work and resilience.
The discussion around Clark’s comments and Wilson’s response highlights ongoing conversations about race and representation in professional sports. As these dialogues continue, players like Wilson are committed to pushing for change while excelling in their careers. The WNBA remains a space where these conversations are crucial, and athletes like Wilson and Clark are using their voices to shape the future of the league.
