The thing NWSL figured out that the WNBA still hasn’t | OneFootball

On May 24, 2024, Caitlin Clark emerged victorious in her first WNBA win in Los Angeles. The global star then met and spoke with former soccer stars Tobin Heath and Christen Press. It seemed a proud moment for women's sports.

It, however, demonstrates issues with Clark's league, the WNBA. Heath and Press are both stars and pioneers in the world of women's soccer for the national team and the NWSL. They have embraced their place in history and have attempted to raise their game and the new stars.

Their podcast has featured interviews with both past and present players. Recently, they featured an interview with star Alyssa Thompson. This is a big change from how the WNBA has treated a star like Clark.

Former and current players such as Sheryl Swoopes and A'ja Wilson have diminished her star power and ability to generate headlines and interest in the league. It points to a growing issue as to why.

Clark has brought in fans for the way she plays the game of basketball. Very similar to how Heath played the game of soccer.

Both Caitlin Clark and Tobin Heath had finesse and style to their respective games

But Heath was celebrated and propped up. She has also been an ambassador for the future. The NWSL has done a fantastic job of honoring its past, such as Heath and Press and other stars, including (but not limited to) Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe.

But it has also recognized the growing number of talented players that have become stars in their own right, such as Thompson, Trinity Rodman or Kiki Van Zanten.

The WNBA, for whatever reason, whether it be former players or league officials, have diminished what Clark has meant. Every chance it seems they have, whether it be those within the league or those covering it, seem to put down Clark or the fanbase that she has brought into the fold.

It has brought in negative coverage, and at times, viewership has dropped with Clark out of the lineup or not playing at all. The NWSL seems to be thriving and continuing to grow, and it may be the way they have embraced both the old and new.

When Trinity Rodman helped lead the US Women's National Team to gold at the Olympics, Heath and Press celebrated. When Clark was left off the Olympic roster, many in the WNBA celebrated.

The disconnect could lead to trouble for the WNBA. With ambassadors such as Press and Heath continuing to help grow, it could lead to positive signs for the NWSL for years to come.