The WNBA has seen a recent rise in popularity, helping the league negotiate a new CBA that has led to significantly more money for many players, especially the league’s stars.
A key driver of this surge in popularity, visibility, and earnings is Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.
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Nancy Lieberman Likens Caitlin Clark to Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods
Clark’s impact began before she even entered the WNBA, as her time at Iowa made her one of the most popular women’s players ever. Though she did not win a championship at Iowa, Clark earned the Naismith Award for best college player and was a four-time All-American (USBWA, WBCA).
Clark’s playing style, often compared to Stephen Curry for her deep 3-pointers, further fueled her popularity. Her competitive fire and passion for the game have kept fans behind Clark.
Building on this attention, Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman emphasizes how Clark’s presence has been fantastic for the league and women’s basketball.
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“You can’t deny she brings the media,” Lieberman said. “You’re talking about her. You probably weren’t talking about anybody four years ago. She’s done her job, just like Tiger [Woods] did, just like Michael Jordan did, so she’s a generational player, she came with a fanbase of millions, and it’s helping the league.”
Lieberman further argues that Clark’s influence was crucial in securing significantly more money for the league in the new CBA.
Lieberman stated, “They don’t get the $2.2 billion collective bargaining agreement honestly without her being there.”
Expanding on Clark’s influence, Lieberman also highlighted the strength that emerges when multiple league stars are brought together, describing them as “very formidable.”
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She then addressed the Fever’s early struggles, adding that other teams get “amped” to play Clark and fellow star Aliyah Boston.
While explaining why it’s so exciting to take on teams like the Fever or Aces, Lieberman again compared Clark to Jordan, this time in a much less direct way.
“I think they’re going to be just fine,” Lieberman explained. “You know what happens right now, it’s like the Aces. You look at the schedule and you go we’re playing Asia Wilson and you get amped up for this. You see the scheduled and you get amped up for the Fever because you’re dealing with some of the most famous players in the league. Same with Angel Reese. So it’s just part of it.”
Lieberman continued, “People used to get amped for Michael Jordan. It’s okay. You’ve created a reputation for yourself. You’ve been able to exceed the reputation, and people want to play against the best.”
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Of course, being compared to some of the greatest athletes of all time comes with a lot of pressure, but Clark continues to prove that she is more than capable of handling it.
