In a recent discussion about the future of women’s basketball, prominent sports commentator Jason Whitlock expressed his strong belief that Caitlin Clark is the key to a transformative moment for the sport. Whitlock pointed out the growing momentum behind Clark and criticized the leadership of the NBA and WNBA for failing to capitalize on her star power. “Adam Silver and Kathy Engelbert, the people running the NBA and WNBA, are idiots. They don’t know how to maximize this Caitlin Clark gift,” he stated.

Whitlock speculated that foreign investors, particularly from Saudi Arabia, could seize the opportunity to create a rival league in the U.S. by attracting top women’s basketball talent. “American men of great wealth have so little vision. We don’t do bold things; we play defense and try to conserve. But we have a gift here in Caitlin Clark,” he added.

He acknowledged Clark’s ability to navigate the complexities of race and gender politics, suggesting that her background in a Catholic family and her strategic avoidance of divisive issues might position her as a formidable figure in the sport. “I think Caitlin Clark and her parents are smart,” he remarked.

Whitlock also mentioned Angel Reese and other rising stars, suggesting they might be open to joining a new league, particularly if it provided a unique opportunity for ownership. He proposed that a figure like Geno Auriemma, a respected coach in women’s basketball, could be a potential commissioner for this new league, bringing valuable connections and experience to the forefront.

The commentator emphasized the importance of giving female players a stake in the league’s ownership, stating, “Now they can run around and beat their chest and say, ‘Hey, Patrick Mahomes, LeBron James, Michael Jordan—these guys never had an ownership stake in the league. We did that!’”

Whitlock concluded by expressing optimism for the future of women’s basketball, claiming that if players focused on their game rather than political statements, they could build a league that rivals the NBA. “Fans are going to come; fans are going to love it. Our merchandise is going to sell. We’re going to turn into a league that rivals the NBA,” he stated confidently.

As the conversation surrounding Caitlin Clark continues to evolve, her impact on women’s basketball and potential role in shaping its future remains a topic of keen interest and speculation.