Chicago, IL – Ever since the entrance of college basketball stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese into the WNBA, interest in the league has skyrocketed. The recent game between Reese’s Chicago Sky and Clark’s Indiana Fever drew nearly 3 million viewers, marking the highest viewership for a WNBA game in 23 years.

The surge in mainstream interest in the WNBA has been a long time coming, with viewership for college women’s basketball steadily increasing over the past few years. From iconic players like Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, Diana Taurasi, and Sue Bird to powerhouse teams and million-dollar coaches, the history of women’s basketball is rich with talent and achievement.

The present-day landscape of the WNBA is filled with both young rising stars like Reese and Cameron Brink, as well as seasoned veterans like Taurasi. However, there is a growing sentiment among some fans that elevates Clark to a divine status within the sport. There is pressure for fans and the league itself to bow down and show gratitude for the interest in Clark, especially from white and male audiences.

Despite being over 60% Black, the WNBA is grappling with new fans using Clark as a symbol for larger issues surrounding race, sexuality, and gender. The recent decision to exclude Clark from the Team USA roster for the Paris Olympics has sparked controversy, with many expressing disappointment and labeling it as a missed opportunity to grow the sport.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has weighed in on the decision, expressing a desire to see Clark on the court but acknowledging the mandate of fielding the best competitive team. However, the discourse surrounding Clark extends beyond basketball, with commentators and individuals using her name to stir up issues of racism and homophobia.

In response to the weaponization of her name, Clark has called for equal respect for all individuals, emphasizing the importance of not using her identity to push harmful agendas. As a budding talent in the WNBA, Clark remains focused on growth and improvement, viewing setbacks as motivation for future success.

Despite the excitement surrounding Clark’s emergence in the league, there is a need for fans to appreciate the contributions of those who came before her and respect the legacy built by generations of women’s basketball players. As the WNBA continues to rise in prominence, it faces challenges from conservative forces seeking to undermine its progress. The extremist fans of Clark should take note and follow her example of grace and maturity in navigating the sport.