Recently, Caitlin Clark made headlines after being named Time Magazine’s Athlete of the Year. During the interview, she took a moment to acknowledge the role race has played in her success and in the WNBA’s history. Specifically, she said, “I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person there is privilege. A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been black players. This league has kind of been built on them. The more we can appreciate that, highlight that, talk about that, I think it’s very important. I have to continue to try to change that. The more we can elevate black women, that’s going to be a beautiful thing.”
These comments have stirred quite a bit of conversation, and I want to share my thoughts on them because they speak to a larger issue within both the WNBA and society. First, it’s important to recognize that Caitlin Clark is in a unique position. She’s a white player who has experienced tremendous success in a league that has been largely shaped by Black women. Acknowledging this is vital, not just for the WNBA, but for the future of women’s sports in general.
What stood out to me about Caitlin Clark’s statement was the way she described her success within the context of privilege. She didn’t shy away from the fact that, as a white player, she benefits from certain advantages, even within a league where Black women have historically been the backbone. This self-awareness is commendable, and it’s rare to hear such honesty from athletes in her position. It’s also refreshing to hear her commitment to elevating Black women within the sport and in broader conversations. She recognizes that to truly move forward, it’s important to appreciate the contributions of those who have built the foundation.
However, while Caitlin’s acknowledgment of privilege is valuable, the reaction to her comments, particularly from some figures in the WNBA, has been disappointing. Some have become resentful of her success, as if her rise somehow diminishes the accomplishments of Black women in the league. This is a misplaced frustration because Caitlin Clark isn’t the problem. The real issue lies in the long-standing systemic inequities that have prevented Black women from receiving the recognition and resources they truly deserve.
For decades, the WNBA struggled with issues like commercial flights and subpar pay. But just two weeks after Caitlin Clark entered the league, chartered flights were secured, a direct result of her rising influence and popularity. This change wasn’t about her success undermining others—it was a step forward for the league as a whole. Her presence has undeniably helped elevate the visibility of the WNBA and increase attendance at games. And yet, some people have tried to blame her for the very issues that have plagued the league for years. This is unfair and misplaced.
Caitlin Clark has never worked to diminish the accomplishments of others. If anything, she has tried to be a force for good in promoting a more inclusive and supportive environment. She’s one of the few figures in the sport who has publicly acknowledged the need to highlight Black women’s contributions to basketball, especially in a league where they have often been overlooked. Her words reflect a genuine desire to uplift those who have paved the way for future generations, and that’s something the sport needs more of.
To those who are resentful of Caitlin Clark, I’d say this: direct your anger at the systems that have historically marginalized Black women in basketball, not at someone who is actively working to improve the conditions and visibility of the sport. Caitlin isn’t the enemy here—she’s an ally who understands the importance of her platform and how she can use it to advocate for change.
Ultimately, Caitlin Clark’s comments remind us that progress in sports, and society as a whole, is an ongoing journey. There’s still a long way to go, but recognizing the privilege that some of us have is an important step in moving forward. Let’s focus on creating an environment where everyone, especially Black women, gets the recognition and respect they’ve earned. Caitlin Clark is doing her part—now, it’s time for the rest of us to do ours.
