In a revealing interview, former Indiana Fever president Allison Barber has finally broken her silence about the chaotic 2023 WNBA season. The Fever had one of the roughest starts in the league, going 1-8, but Caitlin Clark’s arrival on the team injected a spark of hope. From the very beginning, Clark was a force on the court, dominating headlines and electrifying crowds. But what was really happening behind the scenes during this rollercoaster season in Indianapolis? Barber’s candid comments are now providing WNBA fans with new insights, and the revelations have left many stunned.

The Fever’s locker room had been the subject of speculation all season long, with rumors of tension among players circulating online. One particularly hot topic involved forward NaLyssa Smith, whose relationship with DJ Can reportedly stirred up controversy. Fans noticed Smith’s reduced playing time toward the end of the season, sparking theories about whether personal dynamics may have played a role. Barber’s comments didn’t explicitly confirm these rumors, but she did acknowledge that head coach Christie Sides had tight control over the team’s locker room environment, hinting that behind-the-scenes factors could have impacted some players’ on-court roles.

One standout observation from Barber’s interview was her praise for Caitlin Clark’s unique approach to the game. While Clark’s offensive abilities as a passer and shooter were undeniable, what truly set her apart was her focus on making her teammates better. “She’s an amazing passer,” Barber said, “but what made her special was her desire to build team chemistry.” Interestingly, Barber noted that some members of the Fever’s front office were initially concerned that Clark’s unselfish playing style—particularly her tendency to pass rather than shoot—might limit the team’s scoring opportunities. However, Clark’s commitment to fostering unity paid off, and the Fever ultimately found their rhythm, making the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

Barber also touched on a crucial element of today’s WNBA landscape: the business acumen that young athletes, especially women’s basketball players, bring with them as they enter the league. The rise of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals in college athletics has transformed how players approach their professional careers, and Caitlin Clark was ahead of the curve in this regard. “These athletes aren’t just players anymore—they’re businesswomen,” Barber explained. “Caitlin came into the league with her own team of advisers, ensuring that every contract, endorsement, and brand opportunity was locked down.” This level of preparedness is a game-changer for women’s sports, where the ability to navigate the business side of the game has become just as important as athletic performance.

Perhaps one of the most striking moments in Barber’s interview was her recounting of Clark’s request for the WNBA to award bonus pay to opposing teams. Recognizing the massive revenue she was generating by selling out arenas across the country, Clark proposed that her opponents should also benefit from the surge in ticket sales. “Caitlin wasn’t just thinking about herself,” Barber said. “She saw the big picture and wanted to lift everyone up.” Unfortunately, due to the league’s collective bargaining rules, Clark’s request was denied. But the fact that she even made such a suggestion speaks volumes about her character and leadership.

Caitlin Clark’s impact on the Fever’s 2023 season went beyond her record-breaking stats and her ability to turn the team’s fortunes around. Her efforts to uplift her teammates, advocate for financial fairness across the league, and approach the game with a business mindset have set a new standard for what it means to be a WNBA star. While her rookie season was filled with highs and lows, one thing is clear: Clark isn’t just here to play basketball—she’s here to change the game.

As WNBA fans eagerly await what Clark will do next, Barber’s insights offer a glimpse into the kind of leader and trailblazer Clark is shaping up to be, both on and off the court. The Fever may have started the season in disarray, but with a player like Clark at the helm, their future looks brighter than ever.