This season, the WNBA has garnered unprecedented attention, largely due to the debut of Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall pick. Clark has captured the spotlight, attracting significant interest from fans, media, and sponsors. This surge of attention has led to what some perceive as “jealousy” within the league.
On a recent episode of The Big Podcast, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal discussed why some players might feel uneasy about Clark’s entrance into the WNBA. O’Neal suggested that the discomfort stems from a desire not to be overlooked. “It’s professional jealousy,” he remarked. “People should not just focus on her, despite her being a great player. They should also remember players like Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese.”
Angel Reese has also been vocal about her role in the rising popularity of the WNBA. Earlier this month, Reese asserted that the growing interest in women’s basketball is not solely due to one player. “The reason why we’re watching women’s basketball is not just because of one person. It’s because of me, too,” she told reporters, emphasizing the collective contribution of various players.
During the podcast, O’Neal highlighted the importance of recognizing the efforts of other notable players. He pointed out that while Clark might receive considerable attention, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of players like Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso, and Kelsey Plum. O’Neal stressed that the success and increased sponsorships of the WNBA are not the result of a single player but rather a collaborative effort.
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are scheduled to compete against the Atlanta Dream on Friday night. The Chicago Sky rookie, Reese, has also acknowledged the veteran players who have paved the way and praised the current rookie class for their talent and impact on the game. O’Neal reiterated that while one person might receive the majority of accolades, the collective efforts of many players drive the league’s success.
