Nancy Lieberman, a basketball legend with a storied career as a player and coach, recently praised Caitlin Clark‘s basketball greatness while addressing the ongoing discussion around transgender athletes in sports. Speaking ahead of this weekend’s BIG3 final four in Dallas, Lieberman offered insights on Clark’s remarkable impact, her personal experiences in basketball, and her perspective on ensuring fairness in competitive athletics.
Legendary Career Fuels Nancy Lieberman’s Insights
Nancy Lieberman is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished figures in basketball history, achieving success across playing and coaching roles in men’s and women’s leagues. She is a three-time All-American, a member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, an Olympian, former <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA assistant coach, and former <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/wnba/”>WNBA head coach. Currently, she coaches the Dallas Power in Ice Cube’s BIG3 league, leading her team toward the championship with a win-or-go-home format this weekend. Lieberman recently shared her thoughts exclusively with OutKick on a variety of topics, including Caitlin Clark’s rise, lessons from boxing legend Muhammad Ali, and her views on transgender athletes in sports.
Assessing Caitlin Clark’s Remarkable Collegiate and Professional Journey
When asked to rank Caitlin Clark among women’s basketball greats, Lieberman emphasized that Clark’s youth means time will ultimately reveal where she belongs in history. However, she affirmed that Clark’s collegiate accomplishments are extraordinary and unmatched in recent memory. Lieberman noted Clark’s record-breaking collegiate scoring feats, surpassing not only women’s records but also eclipsing the legendary Pete Maravich’s scoring mark. She declared:
“You have to give her, her flowers on that.”
Beyond college, Clark exceeded expectations entering the WNBA, quickly becoming a standout player.
Caitlin Clark’s Influence on Women’s Basketball Compared to All-Time Sports Icons
Lieberman compared Clark’s effect on women’s basketball to the transformations Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan brought to golf and the NBA, respectively. Woods broadened golf’s appeal beyond traditional audiences, attracting diverse viewers, and Clark is having a similar magnetic impact on the sport. Lieberman said,
“She can’t do it by herself, but …she’s moving the needle at an astronomic level. …People are attached to her. Let’s ride the wave together.”
This level of influence is significant for the growth and visibility of women’s basketball nationwide.
Perspectives on Transgender Athletes in Competitive Women’s Sports
Addressing the sensitive subject of biological male athletes participating in women’s sports, Lieberman expressed support for inclusivity while recognizing physical differences that influence competition. Drawing from her personal experience competing against male players, Lieberman highlighted the intense physicality she faced, saying,
“Nobody knows more about playing against men and being overwhelmed by the physicality of men than me.”
She proposed establishing separate divisions that maintain fairness: men’s sports, women’s sports, and a champions division similar to weight classes in boxing, wrestling, or UFC. Lieberman emphasized that transgender athletes should have opportunities to compete and be celebrated, but she maintained that physical distinctions necessitate different competitive categories. She concluded this section with care and compassion, stating,
“I say it with love and kindness and caring. Because I think that everybody should have an opportunity in life.”
Leadership and Respect Earning Buy-In from Male Players
Lieberman addressed concerns about coaching male players, noting her long history of playing alongside and leading men in various leagues has smoothed her acceptance. She credits her humility, career achievements, and love for the game in gaining respect. Lieberman commented,
“If I can get you from your rookie contract to your second or third contract, you now have generational wealth. I don’t think you care if I’m a squirrel.”
Her roster in the BIG3 includes former NBA players like Greg Monroe, Paul Millsap, and Glen Rice Jr., and she reported no issues adjusting to being a female coach in a male-dominated environment.
Muhammad Ali’s Philosophy Shapes Nancy Lieberman’s Bold Approach
Lieberman cited boxing legend Muhammad Ali, her longtime friend and mentor, for instilling a fearless mindset. She shared Ali’s advice:
“Nancy, you have to respect everybody, but you have to fear nobody.”
This philosophy fuels her confidence and willingness to face challenges head-on, whether as a coach, player, or advocate. She embraces outcomes without fear, knowing
“Two things can happen: I can win or lose.”
Coaching Family: The Unique Experience of Leading Her Son TJ Cline
One of Lieberman’s greatest personal blessings is coaching her son, TJ Cline, in the BIG3. She expressed pride in his growth and accomplishments, acknowledging the challenges he has overcome, including stereotypes tied to being coached by his mother. Lieberman responded to criticism from Jeff Teague with humor and confidence, noting her team includes players connected by family or friendship, such as the Millsap brothers. She added,
“My kid is up for the Fourth Man of the Year Award…If TJ couldn’t play, I’d put him in the (transfer) portal.”
Lieberman also reminisced about babysitting Shedeur Sanders, linking family connections across the sport.
Looking Forward to the BIG3 Final Four and Ice Cube’s Role
As Lieberman prepares to lead the Dallas Power at the BIG3 final four event, she noted the league’s entertaining environment, mentioning Ice Cube‘s past performance, including a triple-double, possibly achieved against Jeff Teague. The upcoming championship game will take place on Sunday, August 17, at 2 p.m. CT at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, with live coverage on CBS and iHeart Radio. Lieberman’s team aims to capitalize on their momentum and secure the title in this high-stakes, knockout-style competition.
The Lasting Impact of Caitlin Clark and the Future of Women’s Basketball
Caitlin Clark’s basketball greatness is already reshaping women’s sports by attracting wider audiences and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Nancy Lieberman’s recognition of Clark’s early achievements underscores the young player‘s potential to become an all-time great. Meanwhile, Lieberman’s thoughtful stance on trans athletes in sports advocates for inclusivity combined with fair competition frameworks that respect physical differences. As Lieberman’s BIG3 team competes for the championship, her influence as a trailblazing female coach underscores enduring themes of respect, perseverance, and leadership within basketball at all levels.