Lisa Leslie recently took a strong public stand in support of Caitlyn Clark while offering constructive criticism of Angel Reese’s layup skills on Reese’s podcast.

This moment highlighted the importance of mentorship and the role of established players in fostering a positive and supportive environment in women’s basketball.

Leslie’s comments underscored the necessity of constructive feedback in the sport, emphasizing that when one player thrives, it creates opportunities for everyone in the ecosystem.

Leslie’s decision to defend Clark, who had been the subject of some negativity, reflects a broader shift in the women’s basketball community toward unity and growth. She articulated that Clark’s rise in popularity benefits the entire WNBA, as it increases viewership and visibility, which in turn opens up more opportunities for all players.

For Leslie, this was not just about defending Clark’s skill but also about recognizing how her success serves to enhance the visibility of the league. The rise of stars like Clark challenges the old perceptions of women’s basketball, with some veterans struggling to embrace this change, but Leslie believes that change is essential for the league’s growth.

Leslie’s critique of Reese’s layup technique, while direct, was framed as part of her mentorship approach, which combines both skill development and business acumen. Leslie highlighted the importance of holding players accountable and encouraging improvement, even when it means offering tough feedback. T

he fact that Reese decided to keep Leslie’s critique in her podcast speaks to her maturity and openness to this kind of feedback, which is crucial in an athlete’s development. Leslie’s analysis of Reese’s game was not only critical but also constructive, acknowledging her strengths while addressing areas for improvement.

This balanced approach demonstrates Leslie’s commitment to developing players on and off the court.

The discussion around Reese, particularly about her struggles with the “Yips” – a psychological block that affects athletes – adds another layer to the conversation about the mental aspects of performance. Leslie’s mentorship in this instance reveals the importance of understanding and addressing the psychological challenges athletes face. It is not just about technique but also about ensuring players’ mental resilience.

Leslie’s approach to leadership in basketball goes beyond the game itself. Her ability to balance player development with the business side of the sport is a masterclass in how to build a thriving league.

By supporting Clark and helping younger players like Reese address their weaknesses, Leslie is ensuring that the WNBA’s growth is not just about attracting fans but also about improving the quality of play. This dual focus—on the business and the sport—has been crucial in the success of other major sports, and Leslie is bringing that same strategy to women’s basketball.

Her vision for the league encourages players to redefine their roles and leverage their unique strengths. This strategy has worked for other successful athletes throughout history, and Leslie believes it can help elevate the entire WNBA.

She sees success for individual players as ultimately benefiting the league as a whole, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes excellence across the board. Through this leadership, Leslie is not just mentoring individual players but shaping the future of women’s basketball itself, ensuring that the sport continues to evolve and grow in both talent and visibility.