Draymond Green has firmly identified Caitlin Clark as the current face of the WNBA, despite her recent struggles during the ongoing season. Green’s endorsement highlights Clark’s prominence in women’s basketball amid mixed performance and injuries during the 2024 campaign.
Understanding the Debate Around the WNBA’s Leading Figure
Discussions around the WNBA’s standout player often revolve around contrasting viewpoints, with some prioritizing career achievements and accolades, while others emphasize star power and public recognition. Players like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Brittney Griner are frequently mentioned for their impressive track records. However, in terms of who embodies the league’s identity today, Caitlin Clark remains a prominent choice, especially for those who consider influence and visibility above trophies.
Draymond Green’s Clear Support for Caitlin Clark Amid Challenges
This season has been difficult for Clark, marked by missed games due to soft tissue injuries and noticeable shooting difficulties when on the floor. These factors led to declining scoring averages and raised concerns among her supporters. Nevertheless, Green, a four-time NBA champion and Golden State Warriors star, dismisses any doubt about Clark’s status. On August 4, when asked on Threads who he regards as the face of the WNBA, Green replied unequivocally:
“Caitlin Clark. No question.”
Green’s Position on Clark’s Exclusion from Team USA’s Olympic Roster
Green has also been vocal about Caitlin Clark’s omission from the USA Basketball roster for the Paris 2024 Olympics. He criticized the decision by asserting Clark’s vital role in elevating the sport’s global profile. Green stated,
I think Caitlin Clark should have been on the USA Team. It’s great for the brand. We talk brand any other time, let’s not act like it doesn’t matter now.
He further emphasized Clark’s marketing impact, saying,
The W is there, so it must be about spreading this globally, and she’s the biggest global star in women’s basketball… I think A’ja Wilson is gonna be the GOAT. Just from a pure branding and marketing standpoint, Caitlin’s the biggest,
reflecting the significance of Clark’s presence for the league’s visibility.
This viewpoint was echoed in a social media post noting,
“Her and Angel Reese should’ve been on the team”
—@BaronDavis and @Money23Green both think @CaitlinClark22 & @Reese10Angel should’ve been on Team USA
The Impact of Green’s Endorsement on Caitlin Clark’s Legacy
Despite Caitlin Clark’s setbacks this season, Draymond Green’s affirmation reinforces her standing as a central figure in women’s basketball. His remarks not only amplify her importance to the league’s brand but also suggest that star power transcends momentary performance dips. Considering Green’s influence and public platform, his praise could shape broader recognition for Clark within the sport’s landscape going forward.