ESPN analyst and SportsCenter anchor Elle Duncan has consistently defended Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark amid criticism from some in the sports community. One notable occasion was when Duncan supported Clark after she was named Time Athlete of the Year for 2024—a selection that sparked debate. Duncan took to social media to express her support, stating, “Caitlin Clark deserved Time Athlete of the year and as a member of the W, it automatically amplifies the league.” She dismissed claims that Clark’s recognition was unwarranted, arguing that honoring individual achievements is a hallmark of sports, as they can coexist with team contributions.
Duncan’s loyalty to Clark is evident, but she also acknowledges the complexities that arise from the spotlight on the young star. In a recent appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show, Duncan discussed how Clark’s prominence could inadvertently undermine the achievements of other players in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
“Maybe the most important figure in the W is Caitlin Clark. The best player in the W is, by far, A’ja Wilson,” Duncan remarked. However, she pointed out that while celebrating Clark is important, it should not lead to the denigration of other players. She emphasized that some fans feel compelled to criticize the league’s other talent when talking about Clark, which creates unnecessary tension among players and their supporters.
Duncan believes it’s crucial to acknowledge Clark’s transformative impact on women’s basketball without dismissing the contributions of other athletes. “It’s okay to put [Clark] on the cover of Time Magazine. It’s well-deserved, and well-earned,” she noted. Yet, she cautioned against creating a narrative where fandom for Clark diminishes respect for her peers.
Duncan’s perspective reflects a broader conversation about the representation and recognition of female athletes in sports. By highlighting both Clark’s exceptional talent and the significance of the entire league, Duncan encourages fans to celebrate all players, promoting an inclusive appreciation of women’s basketball. This balanced perspective reinforces the idea that while individual accomplishments are laudable, they should uplift the sport as a whole rather than divide its community.