Time Magazine’s recently released list of the year’s 100 most influential people has ignited a firestorm of debate, primarily due to the exclusion of basketball phenom Caitlyn Clark. The decision to omit Clark, despite her demonstrable impact on women’s basketball and significant contributions to its growing popularity, has been met with widespread criticism from analysts and fans alike.
Clark’s record-breaking performance in the NCAA, culminating in record viewership for women’s college basketball, is widely considered to have significantly elevated the profile of women’s sports. Critics argue that the magazine’s selection criteria appear to overlook the tangible impact Clark has had on audience engagement and the overall trajectory of the WNBA. The inclusion of other figures, such as Nafisha Kier and Bana Stewart, instead of Clark has fueled further questioning of the publication’s judgment.
Sports analyst Colin Cowherd, in a recent segment, vocally condemned Time’s decision, highlighting Clark’s transformative effect on the WNBA. Cowherd drew parallels between Clark’s influence and that of other generational athletes, such as Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, emphasizing her role in revitalizing a league previously reliant on NBA support and struggling for mainstream recognition. He posited that Clark’s ability to draw unprecedented viewership renders her omission a significant oversight.
Looking ahead, Clark is set to join the Indiana Fever, a move that is anticipated to further amplify the league’s visibility. Team coaches are reportedly devising strategies to optimize her performance for the 2025 season, focusing on enhancing her physicality, core strength, and defensive capabilities. The coaching staff aims to leverage Clark’s off-ball movement and strategic positioning to maximize her effectiveness while managing her on-court energy expenditure. Her dedication to continuous improvement, evident in her early training sessions, suggests a strong commitment to adapting her game to the demands of professional basketball. The strategic planning for Clark’s evolving role underscores the Fever’s commitment to building a team that complements her unique skillset and maximizes her potential impact on the WNBA.
