TIME Magazine Snubs Caitlin Clark—But Picks THESE WNBA Stars Instead?!

In a move that has left basketball fans and sports analysts scratching their heads, TIME Magazine’s latest “100 Most Influential People” list was released without the inclusion of Caitlin Clark—the very athlete who has arguably done more for women’s basketball in 2024 than anyone else. Instead, the magazine chose to honor WNBA stars Nefisa Collier and Breanna Stewart, co-founders of the Unrivaled Basketball League, while Clark’s name was nowhere to be found. For many, this isn’t just a simple oversight; it’s a glaring snub that highlights a growing disconnect between Clark’s undeniable impact and the recognition she receives from mainstream media.

The Caitlin Clark Effect: Unmatched Influence

Since entering the WNBA, Caitlin Clark has been nothing short of a phenomenon. Her transition from college basketball superstar to professional athlete with the Indiana Fever has transformed the league’s visibility and marketability. The numbers are staggering: with Clark on the roster, the Fever secured 41 out of 44 games on national television or major streaming platforms—a level of exposure previously unheard of in the league. Road games featuring Clark and the Fever have been moved to NBA-sized arenas to accommodate the overwhelming demand for tickets. Even preseason exhibition games have sold out in minutes and attracted national TV coverage, a first in WNBA history.

Clark’s influence extends beyond ticket sales. Last season, 18 of the top 20 most-watched WNBA games featured the Indiana Fever. Merchandise sales, sponsorship deals, and media coverage have all surged. The “Caitlin Clark Effect” has brought millions of new fans to women’s basketball, many of whom had never tuned in before. NCAA women’s tournament ratings dropped by more than 10 million viewers for the Final Four and championship games when Clark wasn’t on the court. Her impact is not just visible—it’s transformative.

Who Made TIME’s List—and Why?

Despite these achievements, TIME Magazine chose to recognize Collier and Stewart, who have made significant contributions off the court by launching the Unrivaled Basketball League. Their work is commendable; Unrivaled aims to provide WNBA players with more earning opportunities during the offseason, addressing a long-standing issue in women’s professional sports. However, when comparing the reach and influence of Unrivaled—$9 million in player salaries and 11.9 million total viewers in its debut season—to Clark’s social media collaborations alone (her teaser with Dude Perfect drew over 12 million views in days), the difference in scale becomes clear.

Clark is not just a transcendent talent; she is the driving economic force behind the WNBA’s current surge in popularity. It is estimated that she accounted for nearly 27% of the league’s total economic activity last season, with one out of every six tickets sold attributed to fans wanting to see her play. Her appeal has attracted new sponsors, media coverage, and a younger, more diverse fanbase.

A Troubling Media Trend

The omission of Clark from TIME’s list is not an isolated incident. Throughout her career, Clark has faced repeated instances of her accomplishments being minimized or attributed to factors other than her talent and hard work. Some media narratives have even suggested that her popularity is primarily due to her race, rather than her record-breaking performances and electrifying style of play. This narrative not only disrespects Clark but also ignores the diversity of her fanbase, which spans all backgrounds and continents.

Meanwhile, other sports leagues have embraced star power without hesitation. When global icons like David Beckham or Lionel Messi joined Major League Soccer, the league and media celebrated their arrival, understanding that star athletes elevate the entire sport. In contrast, the WNBA seems reluctant to fully embrace Clark’s meteoric rise, with some players and owners insisting on spreading credit evenly—even as they benefit from the increased attention and revenue she brings.

Why It Matters

This pattern of downplaying Clark’s influence is not just unfair to her—it’s a missed opportunity for the league. The WNBA is experiencing unprecedented growth, and Clark is the catalyst. By failing to recognize her contributions, the media risks alienating the new fans she has brought to the game. History shows that when a league embraces its stars, everyone benefits. New fans who tune in for Clark inevitably discover and support other players and teams, expanding the sport’s reach and popularity.

Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity

TIME Magazine’s decision to exclude Caitlin Clark from its list of the world’s most influential people is more than just a snub—it’s a misjudgment of her impact on sports, culture, and business. While Collier and Stewart’s achievements are significant and worthy of praise, Clark’s influence is on another level. She is not just a star; she is a cultural phenomenon who is redefining what is possible for women’s basketball.

As the WNBA prepares for another record-breaking season, it’s time for the league, the media, and the public to fully embrace and celebrate Caitlin Clark’s contributions. Recognizing her isn’t just about giving credit where it’s due—it’s about supporting the future of women’s sports and ensuring that the momentum she has generated continues to lift the entire league. If true influence is what TIME’s list is meant to capture, leaving Caitlin Clark out is a mistake that history will not soon forget.