Fox Sports Radio host Doug Gottlieb has thrown down the gauntlet, declaring the WNBA “not a real professional sport.” His sharp critique is rooted in a glaring truth: the open jealousy displayed by many players towards rising star Caitlin Clark undermines the league’s credibility.
“From what we see, the jealousy is palpable. In legitimate professional sports, this level of petty rivalry is rare. The WNBA’s response to Clark is a clear sign of insecurity,” Gottlieb stated emphatically. His assessment is not fabricated by the media; it reflects a real issue that’s been allowed to fester.
Gottlieb’s comments come in response to the unwarranted verbal attacks Clark has endured from both current and former players, predominantly from the black community. This isn’t just banter; it’s a bitter indictment of a league that claims to embody professionalism.
Consider the physical toll on Clark: she’s been subjected to brutal hits and aggressive fouls that would never be tolerated in more respected leagues. Every game, it seems, she faces a new wave of aggressive play aimed at sidelining her talent.
The recent All-Star voting only amplifies this narrative of jealousy. Fans rank Clark as the No. 1 guard, yet her peers placed her in a dismal ninth position. This glaring discrepancy was called out by sports commentator Dick Vitale, who aptly labeled it “pure jealousy.” He rightly pointed out that Clark’s ascent has brought significant benefits to the league, including increased salaries and greater visibility.
The WNBA must confront these issues head-on. This environment of jealousy and backbiting detracts from the sport’s legitimacy and undermines the accomplishments of its players. It’s time for the league to rise above negative stereotypes and reaffirm its commitment to professionalism.
