Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson believes race plays a role in the popularity of Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, who set NCAA scoring records but has faced criticism for her marketability.
Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson has ignited a conversation about race and representation in the WNBA, expressing concerns that Black women athletes may be overlooked in favor of White counterparts. Wilson's comments come amid the highly publicized debut of Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, who has garnered significant attention and endorsement deals despite limited professional experience.
Wilson, a five-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion, has long advocated for greater visibility and equality for Black women in sports. In an interview with The Associated Press, she acknowledged Clark's accomplishments but suggested that race may be a factor in her marketability.
"I think it's a huge thing. I think a lot of people may say it's not about Black and White, but to me, it is," Wilson said. "You can be top-notch at what you are as a Black woman, but yet maybe that's something that people don't want to see."
Wilson pointed to Clark's endorsement deal with Nike as a glaring example of the disparity. Despite her impressive resume, Wilson had not received a shoe deal from the sportswear giant, while players like Breanna Stewart and Elena Della Donne had secured such agreements.
Clark's popularity may be attributed in part to her existing relationships with major brands established through the NCAA's name, image, and likeness (NIL) program. A study by SponsorUnited found that Clark had secured nine brand deals prior to the WNBA Draft, ranking her among the top female athletes in NIL earnings.
However, Wilson emphasizes that race should not be a determining factor in an athlete's marketability or recognition. She believes that Black women deserve equal opportunities and visibility in sports media and endorsements.
"They don't see it as marketable, so it doesn't matter how hard I work. It doesn't matter what we all do as Black women, we're still going to be swept underneath the rug," Wilson said. "That's why it boils my blood when people say it's not about race because it is."
Clark has not directly addressed the race debate, instead focusing on the collective growth of women's basketball. "I think that's what makes it so good. We need multiple people to be really good," she said of her rivalry with Angel Reese.
Wilson's comments have sparked a broader discussion about the intersection of race, gender, and representation in the WNBA. Fans and analysts alike are examining how these factors influence media coverage, fan engagement, and player compensation.
The WNBA has made significant strides in recent years towards increasing visibility and inclusion, but Wilson's concerns highlight that there is still work to be done to ensure that Black women athletes are recognized and celebrated equally.
