“People were resenting her for it like she was the cause of the problems they had” – Stephen A. Smith tears into critics for targeting Caitlin Clark amid political controversy

The WNBA offseason hasn’t been quiet for Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. The 22-year-old guard, already a household name after shattering records in college basketball, was awarded Athlete of the Year by TIME magazine. However, she found herself at the center of controversy following her remarks on race and privilege.

While the rookie’s performance has elevated the league’s visibility, her comments have ignited heated debates about representation and inequity in professional sports.

Public resentment

During her recent award interview, the Fever guard acknowledged her privilege as a white woman and the efforts of players who paved the way for her. However, while intended to highlight systemic inequities, the statement quickly became a lightning rod for criticism. Many have sided with the Indiana rookie; among those responding was sports analyst Stephen A. Smith, who fiercely defended the guard against detractors.

“Things are clearly on an upward trending trajectory; it’s improving, and she has everything to do with it,” Smith said. “Attendance for Indiana Fever games? Are you kidding me? WNBA draft, games on ABC, ESPN, television ratings—she’s directly responsible, and people were resenting her for it like she was the cause of the problems that they had for the lack of recognition. No, she just happens to be born white. That’s it.”

The 22-year-old point guard’s arrival and rookie season with the Fever proved transformative—basketball-wise and financially. Not only did the franchise make its first playoff appearance since 2016, but attendance at Fever games also surged, and national broadcasts on networks experienced notable spikes in viewership. Yet, even amid these achievements, CC’s success was overshadowed by a polarizing narrative.

Making waves amid talks

The 2024 WNBA season delivered record-breaking numbers. Total attendance reached a league-high in 22 years—a 48 percent increase from the previous season. The league also reported its most-watched regular season in 24 years, alongside unprecedented digital engagement and merchandise sales.

Clark’s star power undoubtedly played a role in driving these numbers. However, the attention she commands has also reignited conversations about racial bias in sports. Historically, white athletes in the WNBA have received disproportionate media coverage and endorsement opportunities compared to their Black counterparts.

Her rise has, at times, been weaponized by certain fans and commentators who pit her against Black players, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

These narratives misrepresent the Iowa product’s intentions. She has consistently rejected attempts to frame her success as a zero-sum game. Yet, Smith pointed out that her backlash often stems less from her actions and more from a broader unwillingness to confront systemic issues in sports media and culture.

“Caitlin Clark hasn’t spoken against anybody; she hasn’t assisted in denying anybody else the privileges they deserve. If anything, she’s trying to provide assistance,” he said.