The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is experiencing significant growth in 2025, marked by the league’s announcement of three new expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia on Monday morning. This development points not only to the league’s increased popularity but also to its ongoing structural evolution. In this expanding landscape, discussions about future cornerstone players have intensified, with Cheryl Miller choosing Caitlin Clark as the ultimate WNBA franchise player.

Cheryl Miller Endorses Caitlin Clark as Cornerstone Player

In a recent interview with the All Fast No Brakes podcast, Cheryl Miller was asked to select a foundational player if she were launching a new WNBA team today. Given the choice among Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Sabrina Ionescu, Miller’s decision was immediate. She stated,

“Since I had a very small window to coach this young lady, I’ve got to go with CC (Caitlin Clark).”

—Cheryl Miller, Former Player and Legend

Miller carries immense credibility as a basketball icon, having scored 3,018 points and collected 1,534 rebounds during her collegiate career at USC between 1982 and 1986. Among many accolades, she is a four-time Kodak All-American, three-time Naismith Player of the Year, and two-time NCAA champion. Miller also represented the United States at the international level, capturing Olympic gold in 1984 and a silver medal at the 1983 World Championships.

Fast forward to 2024, Miller returned as head coach of the WNBA All-Star team, with Clark playing on Team WNBA. Their squad defeated Team USA 117-109 in the All-Star Game, providing Miller with firsthand experience of Clark’s on-court talents. This direct interaction solidified Miller’s conviction in Clark’s exceptional leadership and basketball intelligence.

Caitlin Clark’s Sophomore Season Challenged by Injuries

Despite Caitlin Clark’s rapid rise, her second WNBA season has been marred by injury setbacks. Clark has put up impressive stats, averaging 18.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game across nine appearances in the 2025 season. However, quadriceps and groin injuries have caused her to miss several games, presenting concerns about maintaining her health.

Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White expressed a cautious approach regarding Clark’s recovery:

“My goal has always been the same. I don’t want this to be something that lingers, that we come back too soon. We want to make sure that she is 100% ready to go and that we put her long-term health and wellness at the forefront.”

—Stephanie White, Indiana Fever Head Coach

The situation highlights the challenge teams face in balancing immediate performance with protecting players‘ long-term careers. Clark’s influence, however, transcends numbers, as her presence has significantly boosted fan engagement and viewership since her entry into the league.

Clark’s Role in Shaping the Future of Women’s Basketball

Cheryl Miller’s endorsement of Caitlin Clark as the ultimate franchise player reflects more than just Clark’s on-court achievements. It recognizes her ability to inspire teammates, attract fans, and perform under the spotlight—qualities essential for a franchise anchor. Clark’s impact is crucial as the WNBA grows structurally and commercially, with star players like her serving a dual role as elite athletes and league ambassadors.

As the WNBA prepares to incorporate three new teams, the importance of having standout players who can lead both in competition and marketability becomes clear. Caitlin Clark’s blend of skill, charisma, and leadership places her at the forefront of this next phase of women’s professional basketball, making her a pivotal figure for the league’s expanding future.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Whose Caitlin Clark’s bf?

A. Caitlin Clark, a standout player in the WNBA with the Indiana Fever, isn’t handling the ups and downs of pro basketball by herself. Her boyfriend, Connor McCaffery, quietly supports her, providing constant encouragement as she progresses from college standout to professional star.

Q. How rich is Caitlin Clark?

A. By mid-2025, Clark’s estimated wealth is expected to range from $4 million to $5 million.

Q. Is Caitlin Clark friends with Taylor Swift?

A. Caitlin Clark, a talented player in the WNBA and for Iowa Hawkeyes, met Taylor Swift at an NFL playoff game in January. Clark’s favorite NFL team, the Kansas City Chiefs, won against the Houston Texans to reach the AFC Championship game against the Buffalo Bills.

Q. Is Caitlin Clark rich?

A. Caitlin Clark, a rising star with the Indiana Fever, is gaining fame in women’s basketball. She is influencing both the game and its financial aspects. By mid-2025, experts estimate her net worth will be between $4 million and $5 million.