After it was revealed that WNBA players ranked Caitlin Clark ninth among guards in the league, social media erupted with more claims of jealousy. The rankings, which are part of the All-Star process, include fan votes, media rankings, and player rankings. Clark, the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, received over 1 million votes from fans and was third among media rankings, yet her fellow players ranked her ninth. This discrepancy has fueled accusations of jealousy and pettiness, with critics pointing out that the players’ rankings should reflect respect for her achievements.
The controversy has led to heated social media comments, with many arguing that the rankings are a clear sign of hate and jealousy. Some users compared Clark’s stats to those of Natasha Cloud, who was ranked fourth, to highlight the disparity. Clark’s impressive season includes averages of 18.2 points, 8.9 assists, five rebounds, and 1.6 steals. Only Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury has more assists per game, though Thomas has played in fewer contests. Despite the rankings, Clark’s leadership and impact on the league have not gone unnoticed.
Players like Robert Griffin III have called for a more honest conversation about the rankings, suggesting that some players are letting jealousy cloud their judgment. He compared the situation to how elite athletes in other sports were once perceived, emphasizing that respect should be based on skill and performance, not petty rivalries. As the 2025 WNBA All-Star game approaches, with Clark and Napheesa Collier set to captain, the debate over the rankings continues to stir controversy and debate within the league. The situation underscores the complexities of sports rivalry and the challenges of maintaining respect in high-stakes environments.