WNBA criticized for missing Caitlin Clark in game promo

Barstool founder Dave Portnoy says the WNBA's decision to not feature Caitlin Clark in a game promotion is 'the dumbest thing' he has ever seen. This comes after Clark scored 21 points and 10 assists in the game.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Barstool Founder Slams 'Dumbest' Marketing Decision

Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, has launched a scathing critique of the WNBA, alleging the league "hates" star player Caitlin Clark after she was conspicuously absent from a promotional graphic. The graphic, intended to advertise an Indiana Fever game against the Seattle Storm, instead featured rookie Raven Johnson.

Dave Portnoy claims the WNBA 'hates' Caitlin Clark after league's brutal snub of Indiana Fever star - 1

Portnoy characterized the WNBA's decision not to prominently feature Clark, a player who has generated significant mainstream attention, as "literally the dumbest thing I’ve ever seen." He questioned the league's marketing strategy, drawing a parallel to promoting a Los Angeles Lakers game without LeBron James. Portnoy suggested that this omission sends a message of disdain towards Clark and her supporters.

Dave Portnoy claims the WNBA 'hates' Caitlin Clark after league's brutal snub of Indiana Fever star - 2

The Omission and the Performance

The controversy ignited when the WNBA's official social media account posted a graphic promoting a Sunday doubleheader. While one half of the graphic featured A'ja Wilson and Angel Reese for a different matchup, the Indiana Fever side highlighted Raven Johnson alongside Zia Cooke, with Clark notably absent. This occurred shortly before the Fever's game against the Storm.

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Dave Portnoy claims the WNBA 'hates' Caitlin Clark after league's brutal snub of Indiana Fever star - 3

Ironically, Clark went on to deliver a strong performance in that very game, scoring 21 points and dishing out 10 assists. This marked her 12th game with at least 20 points and 10 assists, further extending her WNBA record for such performances. This statistical achievement, coupled with the promotional oversight, amplified Portnoy's argument about Clark's marketability and the league's perceived mismanagement.

Dave Portnoy claims the WNBA 'hates' Caitlin Clark after league's brutal snub of Indiana Fever star - 4

Background: A Persistent Debate

The incident underscores an ongoing discourse surrounding how the WNBA promotes its players, particularly Caitlin Clark, since her entry into the league. Portnoy, a vocal supporter of Clark, has frequently voiced his opinions on the league's handling of its perceived biggest stars. The WNBA itself has faced scrutiny regarding its promotional strategies and how it capitalizes on the increased interest surrounding Clark's arrival. This particular "snub," as Portnoy termed it, has reignited these conversations across social media platforms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Dave Portnoy angry at the WNBA?
Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, says the WNBA 'hates' Caitlin Clark because she was not featured in a promotional graphic for an Indiana Fever game. He called the marketing decision 'dumbest'.
Q: What happened in the WNBA promotional graphic?
A graphic for an Indiana Fever game against the Seattle Storm showed other players like Raven Johnson and Zia Cooke, but not Caitlin Clark. This happened before the game where Clark later scored 21 points and 10 assists.
Q: What did Caitlin Clark do in the game?
Caitlin Clark had a strong performance in the game, scoring 21 points and making 10 assists. This was her 12th game with at least 20 points and 10 assists, extending her WNBA record.
Q: What is the bigger issue being discussed?
This event brings up ongoing talks about how the WNBA promotes its players, especially Caitlin Clark. Many people think the league is not doing a good job of using the attention she brings.