Stephen A. Smith Had Words for Caitlin Clark ’Resentment’ in the WNBA

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Tristan Afshar | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 11:07 AM ET

Stephen A. Smith isn’t mincing words when it comes to Caitlin Clark’s treatment in the WNBA.

The longtime ESPN analyst joined the "PBD Podcast" this week and didn’t just offer sympathy — he offered a stark explanation for what’s really happening. According to Smith, the controversy around Clark isn’t just about her rough treatment in the league. It’s about something deeper: resentment.

“There’s resentment. It’s not just about her play. It’s what she represents,” Smith said bluntly. “That’s the reality. It’s undeniable.”

He likened Clark’s current reception to what generational athletes before her endured — from Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson to Kobe Bryant and Larry Bird.

But Smith argued that Clark’s case carries extra tension because of the layers involved. She’s not only a sophomore with superstar hype — she’s also someone drawing massive media attention and money to a league still growing.

And according to Smith, not everyone is happy about that.

“There’s a few who actually resent her popularity so much, they would rather not benefit from it,” he added. “That’s how deep it goes.”

His words come at a time when debate around Clark’s presence in the league has reached a boiling point. From hard fouls and viral highlight clips to ongoing chatter about jealousy and marketability, the Fever rookie has stayed at the center of headlines even while missing time due to a quad injury.

But while many voices in the sports world have danced around the topic, Smith took the gloves off — making it clear that the pushback Clark’s facing isn’t just physical.

It’s personal.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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