Sheila Johnson contributes original ideas to Time magazine.
The co-owner of the Washington Mystics on Friday criticized Time magazine's decision to name Caitlin Clark “Athlete of the Year,” wondered why the rest of the league wasn't recognized, and left the debate open. I stirred it up.
Johnson expressed concern that the award's focus on the Indiana Fever megastar could unintentionally create division among WNBA players, including Clark's colleagues. .
Johnson said in an interview with CNN.given the league's talent, Time magazine wondered out loud why it “couldn't put the entire WNBA on its cover.”
Johnson added, “Caitlin Clark is definitely talented, but in a team sport like basketball, putting one person on a pedestal like that can foster anger. It doesn't reflect the collective effort that makes the game special…When you keep singling out one player, it creates hard feelings.”
Johnson also brought up Angel Reese, who has been at odds with Clark in an on-court rivalry that began in college.
“Something clicked with the WNBA this year, and it was because of the players that came in through the draft. It wasn't just Caitlin Clark, it was Reese as well.” [as well]. We have a lot of talent. ”
After a stellar rookie season with the Indiana Fever, Clark became the first player since 2008 to earn both Rookie of the Year honors and earn a spot on the All-WNBA First Team.
Her accomplishments, including her role in boosting the WNBA's ratings, are widely discussed and date back to her influence on college basketball.
Johnson's comments sparked a broader discussion about how individual honors in team sports shape power relations on and off the court.
