If anyone has to take the credit for bringing the most attention to the WNBA, it has to be Caitlin Clark. The Indiana Fever’s star rookie and the WNBA’s No. 1 overall pick in 2024 has been a game-changer for the league.
Despite all this, her recent announcement that a groin injury would end her 2025 season after just 13 games sent a grim wave through the basketball world. The news not only disappointed fans but also sparked a fiery reaction from analyst Jason Whitlock, who called it “the biggest fumble in sports history.” Though it also cost Clark a an exclusive WNBA record to Alyssa Thomas.
Jason Whitlock Has Harsh Words For WNBA After Caitlin Clark’s Injury
What started on a high note ended with devastating news. The Indiana fans were flocked in good hope that this would be a turnaround season for them. However, it happened, with a twist. Clark’s rookie season was cut short by multiple injuries, including a quad strain in May, a left groin issue in June, and the season-ending right groin injury sustained on July 15 against the Connecticut Sun.
In her limited time on the court, she averaged 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals, while shooting 36.7% from the field and 27.9% from three-point range. Despite these impressive numbers, her absence for 22 of the Fever’s 35 games took a toll. The team still clinched their first playoff berth in eight years with 20 wins, but viewership dropped noticeably without Clark, as Fox Sports’ Colin Cowherd noted on The Herd.
I've washed my hands of the WNBA. This season is the biggest fumble in sports history. pic.twitter.com/KGS8ueDCOm
— Jason Whitlock (@WhitlockJason) September 5, 2025
He admitted he stopped covering the WNBA after her injury, reflecting a broader dip in interest. However, Whitlock’s tirade went further, and he unapologetically blasted the WNBA for the displeasure. Earlier, Whitlock issued a bold Clark statement after the Fever extended their winning streak.
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
“WNBA, you’re dead. The league pretty much blew its opportunity this year, and tonight, when Caitlin Clark announced she was not returning this season, I just sat there shaking my head. They had a chance to elevate themselves, but instead, they disappointed an entire new fan base,” he said.
Additionally, he also argued the league squandered a golden opportunity to elevate its profile with Clark, who drove record-breaking attendance and viewership early in the season.
Caitlin Clark Pens Emotional Note After Season-Ending Decision
While Whitlock chose harsh words to describe the scenario, it was all emotions coming out from the Fever rookie. Clark herself took the high road, expressing gratitude for the Fever’s fans in a statement.
I had hoped to share a better update, but I will not be returning to play this season. I spent hours in the gym every day with the singular goal of getting back out there, disappointed isn’t a big enough word to describe how I am feeling. I want to thank everyone who had my back… pic.twitter.com/paD5sEYG1q
— Caitlin Clark (@CaitlinClark22) September 5, 2025
Though the Fever, despite also losing guards Aari McDonald, Sydney Colson, and Sophie Cunningham to season-ending injuries, stayed in playoff contention under coach Stephanie White, holding the sixth seed as of late August.