The votes for the WNBA’s All-Stars are in and Caitlin Clark’s rating is causing some analysts to scratch their heads. The Indiana Fever’s star player was ranked as 9th best guard by her fellow players, which many on social media called “baffling.” Amongst fan votes, Clark ranked number one and amongst media votes Clark ranked third. She ranked second overall, thanks mostly to fan votes which account for half of the vote. Clark averages 18.2 points per game and 8.9 assists when facing defensive pressure. Her college days stirred quite a buzz amongst basketball enthusiasts and her entry into the WNBA has significantly increased viewership. 2.45 million viewers tuned in to watch Clark get drafted into the WNBA, a 374 percent increase from the highest viewership in 2004. The Indiana Fever’s ticket sales quadrupled after Clark was drafted to the team.
So how did Clark end up ranked 9th amongst player votes? Clark has been injured and struggling, which may have accounted for her lower ranking. But iconic broadcaster Dick Vitale, had his own theory. “Absolutely PURE JEALOUSY that @WNBA players voted Caitlin Clark the 9th best guard,” he wrote on X. “Some day they will realize what she Has done for ALL of the players in the WNBA . Charted planes – increase in salaries-sold out crowds – improved TV Ratings…” Others accused players of being “haters.” “WNBA players voted Caitlin Clark the 9th best guard in the league?! They guard her like she’s prime Jordan, celebrate trying to hurt her and downplay her impact any chance they can…” wrote Barstool Sports’ Kayce Smith. “The W is so full of ELITE LEVEL haters and they just don’t even hide it anymore.” “The players voted Caitlin Clark the 9th BEST GUARD?!?! Stop hating,” wrote Robert Griffin III.
Many of Clark’s fans have accused her fellow WNBA players of racism. Some have theorized that a white girl revitalizing a league made up of mostly black players could be causing resentment, especially considering the number of blatant fouls that Clark has faced since going pro. Indiana Coach Stephanie White said she doesn’t want to focus on the vote tallies. “I don’t really care about it. I don’t know why,” she said. “One of my things and we talk about this all time, we control the things that we can control, and we keep the main thing the main thing. All-Star is amazing and it’s such an incredible honor, and we’re excited that it’s in Indy.”