The WNBA is once again in the spotlight for reasons that have more to do with drama than athletic achievement. This time, the focus is on Caitlin Clark, the standout basketball player who has recently become the face of the league. While one might think that a rising star would be celebrated, the reality in the WNBA paints quite a different picture. It seems that many players are less than thrilled that Clark’s fame is helping to pad their pockets. This jealousy-driven response showcases an unfortunate zero-sum mentality that diminishes the potential for collaboration and growth.
At the recent WNBA All-Star Game, players walked onto the court sporting shirts that demanded, “Pay us what you owe us.” This vague declaration raises questions about what exactly they believe they are owed. While it’s clear that WNBA players earn only a fraction—approximately 9%—of the league’s gross revenue compared to their NBA counterparts, the fact remains: the WNBA operates at a loss annually. It takes more than just a desire for equal pay to justify compensation when revenue is nonexistent.
The humor in this situation is hard to miss. One could value Caitlin Clark’s impact on the WNBA at a staggering $1 million, while a significant portion of the league’s roster seems to be more concerned about her star power than their own visibility or contributions. If Clark were to take a leave of absence tomorrow, many argue that the league would hardly register the absence of anyone else on the court. The reality is that productivity and audience drawing power matter in sports, and right now, Clark is the star attraction.
While players expressing frustration may believe they are advocating for better pay and recognition, they might be missing the bigger picture. Instead of uniting behind a common cause with Clark, they have resorted to sniping at her. Kelsey Plum, a player who has found herself in the headlines for less-than-flattering reasons, seems particularly irked that Clark dared to wear the “Pay us what you owe us” shirt. This response not only highlights the pettiness often observed in competitive environments, but it also distracts from the fact that Clark is essentially a golden goose for the WNBA.
In a world where teamwork is essential, it’s ironic that WNBA players would target each other instead of focusing on how to elevate the entire league. Caitlin Clark is elevating the WNBA’s profile, yet some players are too busy engaging in unnecessary rivalries instead of recognizing her as an ally. If the league hopes to attract more viewers and sponsors, it would be wise for its current stars to understand the economic realities at play. Instead of viewing one another as competition, players should see Clark’s success as an opportunity to band together. After all, a rising tide lifts all boats—unless, of course, players opt to continue undermining one another for a fleeting moment of attention.
