Sat Dec 14 02:50:00 UTC 2024: ## WNBA Co-Owner Criticizes Time’s “Athlete of the Year” Choice, Highlights League-Wide Talent

**Washington, D.C.** – Sheila Johnson, billionaire co-owner of the Washington Mystics and a prominent figure in the sports world, has voiced concerns over Time magazine’s selection of Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark as its “Athlete of the Year.” While acknowledging Clark’s impressive rookie season and record-breaking achievements, Johnson argues the award overlooks the broader success and talent within the entire WNBA.

In an interview with CNN, Johnson questioned the focus on a single player, suggesting Time should have showcased the league’s collective accomplishments. She emphasized the significant growth in WNBA viewership and attendance, attributing it not solely to Clark but to the influx of talented players and the overall momentum of the league. Johnson pointed to the success of other players, including Angel Reese, highlighting the depth of talent that deserves recognition.

Johnson also raised concerns about the potential for discord stemming from Clark’s lucrative endorsement deals, particularly her reported eight-year, $28 million contract with Nike. This disparity in endorsements, she suggests, has created a sense of inequity among WNBA players, with some questioning the perceived preferential treatment Clark may have received due to her race. While applauding Clark’s acknowledgement of her privilege in a Time interview, Johnson stressed the need for the media to avoid exacerbating racial tensions and ensure all players receive equitable recognition. She emphasized that the WNBA is at a critical juncture and this internal conflict could jeopardize its growth.

The rising popularity of the WNBA, fueled in part by the Clark-Reese rivalry, has also sparked discussions about race in sports. While acknowledging the rivalry’s positive impact on viewership, Johnson urged caution against framing the narrative in racial terms, echoing concerns about past similar comparisons in the NBA. She highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to maintain the WNBA’s positive momentum and ensure fair representation for all players.

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