WNBA legend Nancy Lieberman believes that Caitlin Clark's arrival in the league has been a game-changer, not just for her own team, the Indiana Fever, but for the entire WNBA. Lieberman, a former player and coach, argues that Clark's star power and influence have significantly contributed to the league's new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and the subsequent increase in player salaries.
In a recent interview, Lieberman stated, 'She’s a generational player. She came with a fan base of millions, and it’s helping the league. They don’t get the $2.2 billion collective bargaining agreement, honestly, without her being there.' This statement highlights the impact of Clark's popularity and the attention she brings to the league.
The new CBA, which was reached in March, includes major salary increases, a larger salary cap, and improved player benefits. Lieberman believes that Clark's presence has played a pivotal role in securing these favorable terms for the players. She further emphasizes, 'You can’t deny she brings the media. You’re talking about her. You probably weren’t talking about anybody four years ago.'
Lieberman's comparison of Clark's influence to that of Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods is telling. She argues that Clark's impact on the WNBA is on par with these legendary athletes in their respective sports. 'She’s done her job, just like Tiger did, just like Michael Jordan did,' Lieberman said.
The Fever, led by Clark, had a strong showing in the 2025 season, coming just one game shy of reaching the WNBA Finals. However, the team's performance this year has been somewhat underwhelming, with a 6-5 start and a decline in Clark's shooting accuracy. Despite this, Lieberman remains optimistic, stating that the team will 'be fine' as the season progresses.
Lieberman also acknowledges the positive impact of Clark's presence on the rest of the league. She says, 'Now, you take A’ja, you take Napheesa, you take Stewie, you take Kelsey Plum, and you take Sabrina, and all these other great athletes, and now you put them together — that’s very formidable.' She emphasizes that the success of Clark and her teammates has elevated the entire league, attracting more fans and creating a more competitive environment.
In conclusion, Nancy Lieberman's commentary highlights the transformative effect of Caitlin Clark on the WNBA. Her influence has not only brought significant financial benefits to the league but has also elevated the profile of women's basketball, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
