In a major shakeup ahead of the 2025 WNBA season, Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes has been officially removed from all WNBA TV broadcast duties. The decision follows months of controversy surrounding her public statements about rising star Caitlin Clark—remarks that many fans and analysts criticized as misleading and unfair.
Swoopes, a legendary figure in women’s basketball, had become a prominent voice in WNBA media coverage. But her comments regarding Clark’s on-court performance and perceived media favoritism didn’t sit well with many in the basketball community. As Clark continued to rise in popularity and prove herself on the court, the backlash against Swoopes’ criticism only intensified.
Sources close to the situation say the league and its broadcast partners made the call after carefully reviewing the public reaction and the tone of Swoopes’ ongoing commentary. While she’s no stranger to strong opinions, this particular controversy reached a tipping point—raising concerns about bias and professionalism in the league’s media coverage.
This decision underscores the heightened attention and scrutiny surrounding Clark, who has become one of the most talked-about players in the sport. As a result, the league appears to be drawing a clear line when it comes to how its athletes are represented by commentators and analysts. Maintaining a respectful and balanced approach to coverage is seen as critical, especially during a period of explosive growth for the WNBA.
While Swoopes has not issued an official response as of now, her departure signals a notable shift in how the league is managing its media narrative. For fans and players alike, it sends a message that accountability matters—even for the game’s most celebrated veterans.