Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL player and Fox Sports host, has suggested that the WNBA could be better off without Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, despite the unprecedented success and attention she has brought to the league. Acho believes that Clark, while instrumental in elevating the WNBA's profile, has become a significant distraction.
Acho shared his perspective on his show, Speakeasy, stating that Clark has already achieved the necessary threshold for boosting the league's popularity. He contended that now that the WNBA has garnered significant viewership, the league can afford to move beyond Clark. "The W, at this junction in time, would be better without Caitlin Clark, because she is a bigger distraction than she is an additive," Acho said.
He compared Clark to Moses, asserting that she led the league "out of the wilderness" in 2024. However, with the emergence of other talented players like Olivia Miles, A'ja Wilson, and Paige Bueckers, Acho suggested that the league no longer critically needs Clark to maintain its current level of attention. "Respectfully, Caitlin did what only Caitlin could do, and we don't necessarily need her to do anymore," he stated. "Thank you, Caitlin. We can take it from here."
The former NFL player clarified that his critique is not personal against Clark but rather directed at the "circus" surrounding her. This includes the constant scrutiny directed at officials, media, and the league itself whenever she is involved. Acho pointed to the demands that officials, general managers, coaches, and even commissioners seem to face regarding Clark.
"Now you're saying the WNBA needs to be cognizant of where they put Caitlin Clark on posters. The WNBA and the officials need to alter the rules for Caitlin Clark. The WNBA and opposing players need to treat Caitlin Clark more gently," Acho said. He added, "You're getting general managers fired, head coaches fired, commissioners fired, social media teams fired, all because we have to cradle this woman."
Acho's comments come amidst increased scrutiny on Clark, including accusations of flopping and excessive complaining to officials. A recent incident where Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas was assessed a flagrant II foul and suspended for hitting Clark in the throat during a play also intensified discussions surrounding the league and its star player. The WNBA has remained largely silent on the matter beyond the disciplinary action against Thomas, leaving pundits and broadcasters to interpret the situation.