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Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) goes up for a basket Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Indiana Fever, 80-61.

'It Takes Longevity': Caitlin Clark Is Not Yet The Face Of The WNBA According To ESPN Analyst

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Jul 11, 2025 10:10 AM ET

ESPN analyst Andraya Carter made a splash on Vibe Check, setting the record straight on who truly carries the WNBA’s brand.

“To me, when I think about someone being the face of the league, it takes longevity to be the face of something, so the face of the league changes.”

Carter acknowledged that Caitlin Clark remains the most popular and exciting player in the WNBA, but she drew a crucial distinction between hype and legacy:

“It’s different than being the most popular player or even the most exciting player in the W, which is clearly Caitlin Clark.”

Her point? Being the league’s “face” isn’t just about immediate popularity. Carter argued that such status requires sustained excellence and achievements like championships, MVP awards, and a proven history over several seasons. In men’s sports, it’s the difference between fresh talent and proven icons.

Well, be it as it may, Caitlin Clark is still responsible for getting new eyes on the screens and people in the scenes. Tickets, TV views, and merch, all of which have been impacted by the rookie’s entry.

In Canada, book authors and analysts have questioned why league leadership and veteran stars seemed slow to fully embrace her, but even critics admit her impact is undeniable.

For Caitlin Clark to be the face of the WNBA, Carter said she’ll need another piece: championship-level validation. What happens next will determine if this rookie star matures into a legacy icon or remains a phenom of the moment.

Caitlin Clark Feels the Grind in Return to Court

Caitlin Clark’s return to action against the Golden State Valkyries didn’t go as planned. She’s the first to admit it wasn’t easy returning from injury.

“I think the hardest part is when your body begins to feel really ready to get out there, but you’re not quite there,”

Jul 9, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) dribbles the ball while Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

That sentiment set the tone. Clark, recovering from a groin strain, logged 25 minutes in the 80–61 loss. She scored 10 points on 4-for-12 shooting, and added five rebounds and six assists. But despite the numbers, she’s clearly off-form.

It’s not all bleak, though. Caitlin Clark sees this as an opportunity. Fever might have been able to hold the fort without her, but now she needs to step into the expectations that so many have placed on her. A chance to spark the locker room and return to her true form.

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) celebrate from the bench Thursday, July 3, 2025, during a game between the Indiana Fever and the Las Vegas Aces at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

In interviews, Clark reiterated patience is key as she rebuilds momentum. With fewer than five regular-season games before the All-Star break, she’s focusing on pacing herself, rebuilding confidence, and finding her groove again. Her mindset? “Day by day” until she’s back to full form.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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