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Sue Bird, a retired WNBA legend, recently shared her perspective on Caitlin Clark, TIME's Athlete of the Year, during an episode of her A Touch More podcast with partner Megan Rapinoe. Bird, who spent 19 years in the WNBA, expressed admiration for Clark, calling her a transformative figure in women's basketball.
Bird likened Clark's arrival to the addition of gasoline to an already blazing fire. "The fire was going. It was burning. And it was burning brighter... but Caitlin came, and she poured gasoline all over that thing and just took it to another level," Bird remarked, reflecting on Clark’s influence on the sport.
Debate Surrounding TIME’s Athlete of the Year Award
Caitlin Clark's recognition has sparked significant debate within the basketball community. Some, including Sheila Johnson, co-owner of the Washington Mystics, believe the honor should have been shared with the entire WNBA. Johnson suggested that TIME should have awarded the league as a whole "League of the Year," citing the WNBA’s growth, which included record viewership and rising merchandise sales.
Sue Bird Supports Clark’s Individual Achievement
Despite these debates, Bird firmly supports Clark’s recognition, affirming that Clark is deserving of the honor. She also acknowledged the role of other WNBA players in the league's rise but emphasized that "there is no Caitlin Clark without the WNBA." Bird expressed that Clark’s stardom wouldn't have reached such heights without the foundational work of athletes who came before her, but she recognizes that Clark played a pivotal role in the sport's current popularity.
Clark’s Influence on Women’s Basketball’s Evolution
Bird’s insights are rooted in her long-standing love and understanding of the game. While the WNBA had been gaining attention,
Bird credits Clark for accelerating that momentum and helping the league reach new levels of visibility. "In the height that it reached this year - of course the player, of course, the stardom, and of course the long threes. She put the ball in the basket. Of course, she's deserving. Both things are true at one time," Bird noted, acknowledging Clark’s individual brilliance while maintaining respect for the contributions of the broader league.
Caitlin Clark’s Signature Style and Growing Influence
Clark’s game, characterized by her signature long three-pointers and impressive skill set, has drawn increased attention to women’s basketball. Bird highlighted that Clark’s ability to make deep shots and play the game with purity has shattered some of the common criticisms of the women’s game, such as the absence of dunks. "Suddenly there was this college girl with her signature logo threes. And the pure way she played the game demanded respect," Bird observed, pointing out how Clark has elevated the game to new heights.
The Spark Clark Has Ignited in Women’s Basketball
While discussions continue about whether Clark's recognition should have been individual or collective, her influence on the WNBA is undeniable. Her presence has brought a new wave of attention to women's basketball, casting a brighter spotlight on both her and the league. Clark's remarkable achievements have not only earned her individual accolades but have also contributed significantly to the growth and visibility of women's sports as a whole.
