Additional Coverage:
- Former FOX host says WNBA would be ‘better without Caitlin Clark’ after throat push drama (themirror.com)
Former FOX host Emmanuel Acho has sparked controversy by suggesting that the WNBA might be “better off without Caitlin Clark,” following a recent on-court altercation involving the Indiana Fever star.
The incident took place during a closely contested game between the Phoenix Mercury and Indiana Fever, which ended with the Mercury edging out a 111-109 victory. In the second quarter, with just over seven minutes remaining, Clark drove toward the basket and fell to the floor. As she attempted to pass the ball while down, Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas lunged for the loose ball and appeared to strike Clark’s throat with her fist.
Although no foul was called during the game, the WNBA reviewed the play afterward and classified it as a Flagrant Foul 2. Thomas was subsequently suspended for one game and fined $1,000 for “recklessly making contact with her fist to the throat area of Caitlin Clark.”
On the Speakeasy podcast, Acho expressed the view that Clark has become more of a distraction than a benefit to the league. He argued, “The WNBA at this junction would be better without Caitlin Clark because she is a bigger distraction than an additive. She got the league the attention it needed, but now that attention is here, we don’t necessarily need her anymore.”
Acho further suggested that the league’s treatment of Clark has become overly protective, noting that officials, opposing players, and the WNBA itself are bending rules and expectations in her favor. He said, “The league and officials need to alter the rules for Caitlin Clark. We need to stop coddling and catering to her.”
Since entering the league in 2024, Clark has undoubtedly been the WNBA’s biggest draw, significantly boosting attendance figures, television ratings, and public interest in women’s basketball. Despite her popularity, some feel Clark has not been fully appreciated or adequately protected on the court.
This perception of undervaluation was echoed recently by former NFL MVP and New York sports radio host Boomer Esiason. On WFAN’s ‘Boomer and Gio,’ Esiason suggested Clark might consider continuing her career overseas, where she could receive “royal treatment” and more lucrative compensation. He noted, “I know Caitlin makes a ton of money off the court because of endorsements, but I think there’s petty jealousy, and she is not being treated with the respect she deserves.”
While a move abroad seems unlikely at this stage, Esiason’s remarks highlight a broader conversation about how the league and its fans respect and support its marquee players. Many observers argue that Clark, who has played a pivotal role in elevating the WNBA’s profile, is too often subjected to harsh criticism and aggressive physical play.