The players’ association has the upper hand in the CBA discussions, with numbers and statistics backing them significantly. The league experienced a massive surge in popularity at all levels and for all age groups. For this, Stephen A Smith credited Caitlin Clark. The senior analyst boldly declared Clark to be the ultimate superstar and claimed that everything she touches turns to gold.
Though it was his personal opinion, history backs the claim, and yet few wanted to dampen CC’s shine with their opinions. Recently, Smith had Cori close as his guest and asked for her opinion on his idea.
Cori Close Hypes Up Caitlin Clark’s Impact
Talking to Cory Close, Smith mentioned that he is a fan of the 2024 rookie and a strong believer in the saying that a rising tide lifts all boats and asked for Close’s opinion on the same.
The UCLA Coach said, “I actually had the opportunity to coach Caitlin Clark in USA basketball. Even back then, she had a charisma about her that’s infectious around everyone she comes in contact with.”
Cori Close on Caitlin’s impact
— correlation (@nosyone4) December 9, 2025
“I actually had the opportunity to coach Caitlin Clark in USA basketball. Even back then she has a charisma about her that’s infectious…The reality is Caitlin has risen a level of fanbase that has broadened it that we are all benefitting from.” pic.twitter.com/aIwFAZ1EKe
She added that she even appreciates the impact of other players, which brings the women’s basketball to a new height, as exemplified by JuJu Watkins and Lauren Betts. “The reality is Caitlin has risen a level of fanbase that has broadened it that we are all benefitting from,” Close concluded.
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The WNBA has been the fastest-growing professional league over the last two seasons, with a significant influx of new fans.
Even though the Fever guard missed many games in the 2025 season due to injury, her presence on the sidelines was enough for fans, who turned up in numbers for the Fever games. Seeing this and the global impact of the franchise, the NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, also felt proud.
NBA Commissioner Also Lauds Indiana Fever And Caitlin Clark
The CBA discussions are still ongoing, with the players’ association seeking favorable terms that match their demands. While the league seemingly accepts the higher compensation values, there are differences over the revenue-sharing percentage. As a result, the NBA Commissioner made a bold claim that indirectly supports the WNBPA.
“To see the popularity of Caitlin (Clark), to see the Fever exploding in popularity — not just here in Indianapolis, Indiana, but globally — it’s remarkable,” Adam Silver told FDSNI.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver (on FDSNI): "To see the popularity of Caitlin (Clark), to see the Fever exploding in popularity — not just here in Indianapolis, Indiana, but globally — it's remarkable."
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) December 4, 2025
The thought of highlighting ‘global impact’ has one more point, as WNBA Europe League is in serious discussions and could launch alongside NBA Europe in 2027. Just 24, CC has certainly made an immense impact on everyone.