One of the most debated topics of this WNBA offseason has been the comments made by Washington Mystics co-owner Sheila Johnson regarding Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark. Johnson, in a December 13 interview with CNN Sports, expressed that Clark, named Time Magazine’s Athlete of the Year, should not have been featured alone on the magazine’s cover.
The remarks quickly drew backlash from the women’s basketball community, with many calling them tone-deaf. Most recently, Indiana Fever General Manager Amber Cox weighed in on the issue during her December 20 appearance on In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams.
Amber Cox’s Defense of Caitlin Clark
When host Khristina Williams asked Cox about Johnson’s comments and whether the Time honor should have been awarded to the entire WNBA rather than Clark individually, Cox offered a measured but emphatic response.
“I think Caitlin Clark deserves that award,” Cox said. “Through the years, there have been incredible players. Sports, to me, is generational. We’ve been at this not very long—less than 30 years, comparatively, when you’re talking about other leagues.”
Cox highlighted Clark’s extraordinary impact on the sport, emphasizing her ability to draw massive attention to women’s basketball.
“What Caitlin Clark did, because so many eyeballs were on her, she’s a huge multiplier effect of [the league’s current growth],” Cox explained. “Because she has so many fans… people are moving games because so many people wanted to see her play.”
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A Transformational Talent
Cox didn’t limit her praise to Clark alone, acknowledging the influence of other collegiate stars like Angel Reese and Cameron Brink. She credited their burgeoning identities and brand recognition as significant factors in the WNBA’s rising popularity.
However, Cox made it clear that Clark’s impact stands apart.
“The identity and how much brand recognition these players now have in college absolutely helped the WNBA,” Cox said. “But we’ve never seen anything like Caitlin Clark.”
Clark’s Unmatched Influence
Cox’s sentiments echo the broader consensus about Clark’s singular influence on the sport. The Iowa guard’s electrifying performances, including her record-breaking NCAA Tournament run, captivated a global audience and brought unprecedented attention to women’s basketball.
Clark’s ability to draw fans in droves has set her apart, making her not just a standout talent but a cultural phenomenon. Her recognition as Time Athlete of the Year was a testament to her unparalleled impact on the game, both on and off the court.
A Divided Debate
Sheila Johnson’s comments have sparked significant debate about how recognition in women’s basketball should be distributed. While some agree with Johnson’s perspective that the honor could have highlighted the collective achievements of the WNBA, others believe that individual recognition for players like Clark is crucial to advancing the sport’s visibility.
Cox’s defense of Clark reflects the belief that her success is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for the league’s growth and visibility.
The Road Ahead
As Caitlin Clark prepares to continue her basketball journey, her influence on the sport is undeniable. For the WNBA, her presence represents an opportunity to attract a new generation of fans and solidify the league’s place in the global sports landscape.
Amber Cox’s remarks highlight the importance of celebrating individual achievements while acknowledging the collective progress of women’s basketball. In an era where visibility and recognition are more critical than ever, stars like Clark are paving the way for a brighter future for the sport.
