Sheila Johnson, co-owner of the Washington Mystics, sparked controversy during this WNBA offseason by suggesting that Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark should not have been the sole focus of the Time magazine cover after winning Time Athlete of the Year. She shared her views during an interview with CNN Sports on December 13.
Many members of the women’s basketball community criticized Johnson for her comments. The latest individual to weigh in on the topic is Amber Cox, the GM of the Indiana Fever, who discussed the issue on the “In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams” show on December 20.
During the interview, Williams asked Cox for her response to Johnson’s remarks and whether the Time award should have been given to the entire WNBA instead of just Caitlin Clark. Cox defended Clark, stating, “I think Caitlin Clark deserves that award.” She emphasized the impact Clark has had on the league’s growth and popularity.
Cox highlighted the significance of players like Angel Reese and Cameron Brink, but acknowledged that Caitlin Clark’s presence has been truly exceptional. She emphasized how Clark’s influence has brought a new level of attention to women’s college basketball and, by extension, the WNBA.
Cox’s perspective aligns with the sentiment that Caitlin Clark has made a significant impact on women’s basketball.