Analyst Emmanuel Acho has stated that the WNBA would be "better off" without Caitlin Clark, despite acknowledging her pivotal role in the league's recent surge in popularity and financial success. Acho expressed this view on his "Speakeasy" podcast, suggesting that Clark has become a greater distraction than an asset.
"Caitlin Clark has gotten the WNBA over the necessary threshold they needed," Acho said. "Now, people are watching. Now, we realize there's talent in the W that's actually even greater than Caitlin Clark… Caitlin got the necessary eyes there, but now that the eyes are there, we don't necessarily need her anymore."
He further elaborated that the league and its players have benefited significantly from Clark's presence, citing advancements such as chartered flights, a new collective bargaining agreement, and increased maximum player contracts. According to Acho's argument, if Clark were to leave the WNBA, she "wouldn't be missed."
Clark's entry into the league in 2024 coincided with a dramatic rise in WNBA attendance, television ratings, and merchandise sales. The league secured a media-rights deal valued at over $3 billion, and revenue growth led to player revenue sharing. Average player salaries have reportedly increased by more than 450% under the new collective bargaining agreement, with top stars now earning upwards of $1.5 million annually.
The analyst's comments came in the wake of an incident where Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas was suspended for one game and fined for a foul that involved making contact with Clark's throat during a loose-ball scramble. This event has reignited discussions about whether Clark is being targeted by opponents.
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has suggested that Clark is indeed being targeted, citing video evidence of what she described as "cheap shots." Cunningham expressed concern that the league and its officials are not adequately protecting Clark.
Despite these debates, the article notes that the WNBA's current level of success is undeniably linked to Clark's arrival. The argument that the league has outgrown its biggest draw less than three years after her debut is characterized as disconnected from the reality of her impact on viewership, revenue, and overall attention.