Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back when addressing the sharp decline in WNBA playoff viewership following Caitlin Clark’s elimination. Known for his bold takes, Smith pointed to the NCAA star’s undeniable influence on basketball fans and the sport’s growing popularity as a result of her presence.

“When Caitlin Clark is on the court, people tune in. Period,” Smith declared during his latest broadcast. “She’s a once-in-a-generation player who doesn’t just play the game—she elevates it. Her absence is being felt in a big way, and the numbers don’t lie.”

A Star-Driven Era

Clark, a record-breaking phenom and household name in women’s college basketball, had fans glued to their screens during her standout NCAA tournament performances. Her charisma, court vision, and ability to hit deep three-pointers from “logo range” turned her into a ratings magnet. However, with her team out of contention, Smith argues that the WNBA has yet to fill the void left by her absence.

“You can’t deny her impact,” he continued. “Fans were excited about her potential crossover into the WNBA, and they wanted to see what she could do against the best in the world. Without her, the buzz just isn’t the same.”

A Wake-Up Call for the WNBA

While acknowledging the league’s strides in improving viewership and fan engagement, Smith emphasized the importance of cultivating and spotlighting star power. “This isn’t just about Caitlin Clark. It’s about finding players who captivate audiences and keeping them invested. The WNBA needs to lean into its stars and their stories, or this trend will continue.”

Fans Weigh In

Social media has been ablaze with fans echoing Smith’s sentiments. Many pointed to Clark’s ability to draw new audiences, not just hardcore basketball enthusiasts.

“Caitlin Clark made women’s basketball must-watch TV. Her absence shows just how much she means to the sport,” one fan tweeted.

As the playoffs progress, the WNBA faces an uphill battle in retaining its audience. Stephen A. Smith’s candid remarks serve as both a critique and a challenge for the league to capitalize on the momentum created by rising stars like Caitlin Clark. Whether they’ll rise to the occasion remains to be seen.