WNBA All-Star and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike responded to Charles Barkley’s recent comments about rookie sensation Caitlin Clark.
Ogwumike, a seven-year veteran, respectfully disagreed with the Basketball Hall of Famer’s views.
Barkley, a prominent figure on TNT’s Inside The NBA, had addressed the broader WNBA community, specifically targeting those he felt were not giving Caitlin Clark, the prolific college scorer, the respect she deserved.
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The conversation around Clark’s transition to the pros has been lively. High-profile players like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner have issued cautionary remarks about the realities of professional play, while Sheryl Swoopes faced criticism for her comments about Clark’s scoring record. Barkley’s recent on-air remarks called out what he perceived as jealousy toward Clark, prompting mixed reactions from the audience, ranging from ridicule from casual viewers to defense from WNBA supporters acknowledging Clark’s impact.
Ogwumike took to social media to voice support for the rookie class and to clarify some of the controversy:
“Charles and the Inside the NBA team are industry GOATs, so with all due respect, I’ll share my perspective with love. ?? Every WNBA player I know supports this rookie class and appreciates the attention and financial opportunities Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and others are bringing to the league!”
She elaborated on Taurasi’s comments, explaining that they were misconstrued by those unfamiliar with her personality, and addressed Swoopes’ factual error, which Swoopes later apologized for privately.
Ogwumike also highlighted that the recent implementation of chartered flights, often credited to Clark’s influence, was actually part of an ongoing initiative to enhance safety and accommodate the league’s growth in revenue, which escalated from $60M in 2019 to over $200M in 2023.
Furthermore, she touched on the WNBA’s expansion, suggesting it has been a gradual process aimed at ensuring sustainability and proper management:
“Expansion has been in the pipeline for years. We need more teams and roster spots, but crucially, the right owners to sustain them. Slow and steady wins the race, although I’ve been envious of how quickly the NWSL moves! ?” — @chiney on X
Ultimately, while Ogwumike acknowledged Clark’s significant role in these developments, she emphasized a balanced perspective on Barkley’s assertion that players aren’t grateful for Clark’s contributions, suggesting the reality is more nuanced.
