The WNBA spotlight has never burned brighter, thanks in large part to rising stars and intense rivalries. But according to Josiah Johnson, co-host of Gil’s Arena alongside Gilbert Arenas, only one player in the entire league stands out as a bona fide superstar-Caitlin Clark.
His bold assertion has sparked renewed debate over how the media and fans define “superstardom” in women’s basketball.
“At the moment, the only true superstar in the game of basketball is Caitlin Clark,” Johnson said, voicing frustration with the divisive narratives dominating coverage of the league.
While acknowledging the talents of other players, Johnson made it clear that Clark‘s name and presence transcend the hardwood in a way no other current player matches.
Johnson’s take: Stardom vs. skill
Johnson‘s statement comes during a moment of transition and tension in the WNBA. Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever rookie, has been at the center of both praise and controversy since entering the league.
Her jersey is among the top sellers, her games regularly break viewership records, and her fan base stretches well beyond traditional basketball circles.
However, many WNBA veterans and fans believe the hype around Clark has unfairly overshadowed dominant players like A’ja Wilson and Angel Reese.
Wilson, a two-time MVP, is leading the Las Vegas Aces on another championship run, while Reese is turning heads as one of the most productive rookies in the league. Yet, in Johnson‘s eyes, there’s a difference between being elite and being universally recognized.
His comment wasn’t necessarily meant as a slight to Wilson, Reese, or others. Rather, it underscored the rarity of athletes like Clark, whose appeal cuts across demographics and draws in casual viewers who might otherwise overlook the WNBA entirely.
The impact of the “Superstar” label
Clark‘s rise has created both admiration and polarization. Some believe she is helping to grow the game, bringing new fans into the fold and giving the WNBA unprecedented exposure.
Others argue the coverage is disproportionate and that other top-tier athletes are being neglected in the conversation.
Johnson‘s viewpoint reflects a growing reality in modern sports: star power isn’t just about stats, it’s about marketability, audience reach, and influence. In that sense, Clark may indeed be operating on a different level-for better or worse.
As discussions about equity and recognition continue, Johnson‘s comment adds fuel to the fire. Is Caitlin Clark the WNBA’s only superstar, or simply the most visible? One thing is certain: the debate over who truly wears the crown isn’t ending anytime soon.
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