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Caitlin Clark’s former college coach, Lisa Bluder, believes it’s crucial for everyone in the WNBA, including Washington Mystics co-owner Sheila Johnson, to recognize and appreciate the impact of Clark’s stardom on women’s basketball.
After a successful 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year season with the Indiana Fever, Clark was named Time magazine’s Athlete of the Year, a decision that Johnson, the billionaire founder of the BET network, disagreed with.
In a recent interview with CNN Sports, Johnson expressed concerns about the influence of race in media coverage and argued that Time should have highlighted the entire WNBA as the “League of the Year.”
During a conversation with USA TODAY’s Sports Seriously, Bluder, who retired in May after coaching the Iowa Hawkeyes for 24 seasons where Clark played from 2020-24, defended Clark’s positive impact on women’s sports.
Bluder emphasized, “It’s unreasonable to diminish the positive influence that (Clark) has had on athletics and women’s sports. She has contributed in a way that is unparalleled, possibly since Billie Jean King.”
Mystics owner Johnson: Focus on Clark ‘creates hard feelings’
Johnson’s perspective is complex, and in the same interview, the Mystics co-owner acknowledged Clark’s advocacy for more recognition of the WNBA’s Black players.
“After nearly 28 years, the WNBA has reached a pivotal point,” Johnson observed. “It’s not just Caitlin Clark, but players like (Angel) Reese. There is abundant unrecognized talent out there, and it’s time to shed light on it.”
Bluder’s belief is that Clark’s fame will benefit the entire WNBA and lift all players to new heights.
“Let’s support and uplift her, because she is benefiting all of us,” expressed Bluder. “When Caitlin shines, we all shine. It’s time for everyone to embrace that.”
Clark stands by Time honor, acknowledges white privilege
As with any athlete who rises to superstardom, Clark’s statements on larger issues can spark reactions. Some have criticized her for not using her platform enough to address the issues raised by Johnson. In her Time interview, Clark paid tribute to the WNBA’s Black players while asserting her deserving of the accolades she’s receiving.
“I acknowledge that as a white person, there is privilege,” Clark admitted. “The league has been predominantly built on the talent of Black players. It’s important to appreciate, highlight, and support these players who have made the league exceptional. Elevating Black women is crucial for the league’s success.”
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