Washington Mystics owner Sheila Johnson recently stirred controversy with her remarks about Caitlin Clark during a CNN interview. Johnson criticized TIME magazine for naming the Indiana Fever star “Athlete of the Year,” expressing dissatisfaction with the individual accolade and advocating for the entire WNBA to be recognized instead. Her comments highlighted broader issues of race and representation in sports media, igniting debate within the basketball community.
Attempting to be measured, Johnson said, “It’s just the structure of the way the media plays out race, if I’m being very honest. I feel bad because so many players of color who are equally talented never get the recognition they deserve. Right now, it’s time for that to change.” Johnson further questioned TIME’s decision to single out Clark, suggesting the magazine could have celebrated the WNBA collectively as “the league of the year” to avoid fostering resentment or perpetuating narratives of racism within the sport.
Johnson’s critique, however, seems to overlook the key factors driving the WNBA’s surging popularity in 2024. While acknowledging a pivotal year for the league, she attributed its success to the influx of new talent, including Angel Reese and others, rather than crediting Clark’s transformative impact. “It’s not just Caitlin Clark,” Johnson stated. “There’s so much unrecognized talent out there, and I don’t think we can pin the league’s growth on one player.”
Yet, Johnson’s perspective disregards the measurable impact of what many call the “Clark Effect.” The Fever rookie’s influence has been undeniable, with her ability to fill arenas both at home and on the road. For example, the Mystics’ two home games against the Fever accounted for 31% of their total home attendance, despite representing just 10% of their schedule. Clark’s magnetic appeal is fueling unprecedented interest in the league, making her a central figure in the WNBA’s evolution.
To deny Clark’s pivotal role in this resurgence is to ignore reality. While the league’s overall talent deserves recognition, Clark stands out as the catalyst for this newfound momentum. Her ability to draw fans and boost visibility is unmatched, and while Johnson’s desire for inclusivity is admirable, it cannot eclipse the undeniable impact of a player whose stardom is reshaping the WNBA’s future.
