Legendary sports broadcaster Dick Vitale is speaking out — and he’s not holding back.
In a fiery statement posted to social media, Vitale criticized what he called the “absurd” treatment of rookie sensation Caitlin Clark by some WNBA players, after she was ranked only the 9th best guard in All-Star voting by fellow players — a decision many fans and analysts have called baffling given Clark’s massive impact on the league.
“It is absurd the way that a number of players in the WNBA have treated Caitlin Clark!” Vitale wrote. “So sad — but I bet they love the charter flights, the increase in salaries, the crowds, the TV ratings since she arrived from Iowa. No doubt she is the best thing to happen to the WNBA.”
Clark, who led all players in fan votes with over 1.2 million, has become the face of the league almost overnight. Her games consistently draw sellout crowds, and her presence has helped drive record-breaking TV viewership, merchandise sales, and national media attention.
But inside the league, the response hasn’t been universally warm. Some veteran players have publicly dismissed the attention she’s received, while others have questioned her readiness to be the face of the WNBA. The All-Star voting results — which placed Clark 9th among guards in player voting despite being #1 with fans — only added fuel to the debate.
Vitale’s remarks have since gone viral, sparking widespread conversation online. Supporters praised him for defending Clark and calling out what they see as professional jealousy. Critics, however, argue that players have a right to judge based on performance, not popularity.
Still, many agree that Clark’s arrival has brought unprecedented attention and growth to the league — and that any pushback from within may risk overshadowing the momentum women’s basketball is finally enjoying.
As one fan commented under Vitale’s post: “You don’t have to love the spotlight she’s getting — but you can’t deny the light she’s shining on the entire league.”
Whether it’s controversy or celebration, one thing is clear: Caitlin Clark is at the center of it all — and the WNBA has never been louder.
Let me know if you’d like a version with Clark’s response, voting breakdown, or quotes from other WNBA players.
