Dick Vitale calls out WNBA players, saying jealousy influenced their vote, ranking Caitlin Clark as only the 9th best guard despite her huge impact on the league:

“It is absurd the way that a number of players in the WNBA have treated Caitlin Clark!So sad but I bet they love the charter flights, yhe increase in salaries, the crowds, the TV ratings since she arrived from Iowa. No doubt she is the best thing to happen to the WNBA.”

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Legendary basketball commentator Dick Vitale has weighed in on the growing controversy surrounding Caitlin Clark’s treatment in the WNBA, openly criticizing players who he believes are letting jealousy influence their opinions and votes.

The debate heated up after Clark—who has been credited with bringing record crowds, TV ratings, and attention to the league—was ranked only the ninth-best guard in a recent poll, despite her undeniable impact since joining the Indiana Fever.

Vitale didn’t mince words, taking to social media to defend the rookie sensation:

“It is absurd the way that a number of players in the WNBA have treated Caitlin Clark! So sad but I bet they love the charter flights, the increase in salaries, the crowds, the TV ratings since she arrived from Iowa. No doubt she is the best thing to happen to the WNBA.”

A League Divided

Clark’s arrival has been a game-changer for the WNBA, with sellout games, surging merchandise sales, and a new wave of fans tuning in. However, her meteoric rise has also sparked tension among some veteran players, who have been vocal about the attention she receives.

Many fans and analysts believe that Clark’s low ranking among guards isn’t about her performance, but about locker room politics and professional envy. Critics argue that the league’s voting system is flawed if it can’t recognize the transformative effect Clark has had in just her rookie season.

The Impact Is Unmistakable

Since Clark’s debut, the WNBA has seen a surge in popularity not witnessed in years. Teams are traveling on charter flights for the first time, salaries are rising, and national broadcasts are breaking viewership records—all coinciding with Clark’s arrival.

Vitale and many others say it’s time for the league’s players to acknowledge what Clark has brought to the table, rather than downplaying her achievements.

Fans Rally Behind Clark

Social media quickly lit up in support of Vitale’s comments, with many echoing his sentiments and calling for more respect for Clark’s contributions. One fan wrote, “She’s the reason half the country is watching the WNBA right now. Give her her flowers!”

As the debate rages on, one thing is certain: Caitlin Clark’s impact is impossible to ignore, and the league’s future looks brighter than ever—if it can get past the jealousy and embrace the new era she represents.