In a standout moment of the 2024 WNBA season, Caitlin Clark was named TIME’s Athlete of the Year after an incredible rookie year that saw her break multiple records. However, Washington Mystics co-owner Sheila Johnson expressed concerns over the recognition, which she felt was unfair to the league as a whole. While acknowledging Clark’s accomplishments, Johnson suggested that instead of highlighting one player, TIME could have celebrated the WNBA itself, naming the league as the “League of the Year” due to its growing talent and success.
Johnson’s comments reflect broader concerns about how the media tends to spotlight individual athletes while overlooking the collective achievements of teams and leagues. She argued that by focusing on just one player, it inadvertently creates “hard feelings” among other talented players who are equally deserving of attention. She further emphasized that many outstanding athletes, especially those of color, have been overlooked for recognition. In her view, it’s time for the media to shift its focus and give the proper spotlight to these athletes, who have contributed immensely to the league’s growth and popularity.
This discussion also brings to light the racial dynamics surrounding Clark’s rise to prominence. Las Vegas Aces star and 2024 MVP A’ja Wilson has previously commented on how Clark’s popularity, especially in a predominantly white-dominated sport, might be linked to the racial dynamics of visibility and marketability. Wilson has pointed out that Black women in the WNBA often do not receive the recognition they deserve, despite their significant contributions to the league’s success.
Clark herself has acknowledged the role that race plays in her visibility, recognizing the privilege she carries as a white athlete. She expressed her desire to see more Black players in the WNBA being promoted and celebrated for their achievements. According to Clark, the WNBA owes much of its success to the talent of Black athletes, and the league would be better served by giving them the recognition they deserve. She voiced a commitment to using her platform to elevate Black women in sports, which she sees as vital for the continued growth of the league.
There’s no denying that Caitlin Clark has significantly increased interest in the WNBA. The 2024 season saw record-breaking viewership, with an average of 1.2 million viewers across the season and playoffs—a remarkable 155% increase from 2023. Clark’s presence helped drive this surge, contributing to sold-out games, such as the Connecticut Sun’s home opener and Fever exhibition matches. While Clark’s influence is undeniable, the league’s broader success is the result of collective talent and growth, which should be recognized and celebrated. As the league continues to gain momentum, it will be important to ensure that all players, especially those from underrepresented groups, are given their due recognition.
