Sheryl Swoopes, a WNBA legend, has once again taken aim at Caitlin Clark, this time after the star guard was named TIME’s Athlete of the Year. Clark’s achievement, which marks the first time a WNBA player has won the prestigious honor, has sparked both admiration and controversy. While some celebrate her accomplishments, Swoopes has raised questions about Clark’s selection for the award. This is just the latest in a series of critiques from Swoopes, who has targeted Clark’s performance and influence over recent months.
Swoopes expressed her thoughts on Clark’s win during an appearance on “Gil’s Arena,” noting that she wasn’t particularly surprised by the decision. “I’m curious to know who the other candidates were, but the fact that this is the first time a WNBA player has won TIME’s Athlete of the Year is pretty special,” Swoopes remarked. However, she also questioned the criteria for the award, wondering if it was based solely on Clark’s on-court performance or if her impact on the sport played a significant role in the decision.
While Swoopes’ comments seem to reflect skepticism, they may have overlooked the detailed explanation provided in TIME’s coverage of Clark’s win. The article highlights both her exceptional achievements on the basketball court and her broader influence in elevating women’s sports. Clark’s remarkable performances in the WNBA, particularly in regular-season games, have drawn massive viewership, helping to bring much-needed attention to the league. This has contributed to the overall growth of women’s basketball, making it more visible than ever before.
Swoopes, who has long been an advocate for women’s basketball, insists that her criticism of Clark is not driven by jealousy or resentment. However, some observers have suggested that Swoopes’ remarks may stem from a desire to draw attention to other emerging stars in the sport. Nevertheless, there is no denying that Caitlin Clark has become a game-changer for women’s basketball, both in terms of her on-court performance and her impact off the court.
Clark’s recognition as TIME’s Athlete of the Year places her among a distinguished group of athletes. She becomes the third woman to receive this honor, following Megan Rapinoe in 2019 and Simone Biles in 2021. As Clark continues to break barriers, her influence on and off the court grows, cementing her status as one of the most impactful figures in women’s sports today.
