ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt claims that the WNBA benefited from Caitlin Clark, not the other way around, as he backs the Fever player, firing shots at Cathy Englebert.

Napheesa Collier’s criticism opened up the actual issues in the WNBA as the Lynx star blasted Commissioner Cathy Engelbert for a lack of accountability. While many of her statements and criticisms were shocking to the spectators, what amused fans more was how the Commissioner sees Caitlin Clark in the league.

Collier asked the WNBA commissioner about the rookie contracts, giving examples of CC, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Commissioner’s response was shocking and showed her approach towards her players. Players showed support for Phee’s stand. Buckers shared a special post for Collier on her Instagram. Now, the Fever guard received support from an ESPN presenter who took a jab at Engelbert.

Scott Van Pelt Gives Cathy Engelbert A Reality Check Over Caitlin Clark

According to Collier’s statements, the WNBA Commissioner mentioned that the players should be on their knees thanking the league for providing them a platform to earn a living. Singling out the 2024 superstar rookie, Englebert said that Clark should be thankful for all the money ($16 million) she is making, as the WNBA is allowing her to showcase her talent.
Caitlin Clark (Image Credits: Imagn)
The laughable comments were met with shock and severe criticism. ESPN show host Scott Van Pelt also received a mention in the comment, which slammed the WNBA leader.

“As for what Engelbert is alleged to have said to Collier, if she actually suggested Caitlin Clark should be grateful for what she makes off the court, that’s preposterous. Did you miss the Iowa years? Clark is the Tiger Woods tide that lifts all boats,” Van Pelt said.

“And we know; this show is proof. The highest rating that we have ever had followed one of her games at Iowa. The WNBA has benefitted from her presence more than the other way around, even though this year for Caitlin Clark was essentially lost to injury.” Van Pelt mentioned on his show.

While there were rumors that the league was treating Fever guard ‘differently’ (in a negative way), these words from Cathy were a complete disrespect to Clark’s game and fan following, as well as to the rise the league is enjoying because of the Fever star. Even recently, the WNBA showed double standards in the Rookie of the Year announcement for Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers.

Caitlin Clark’s Return Puts Added Pressure On The Indiana Fever

While the former Iowa star was out for the majority of the season due to injury, the Fever team performed well. It surpassed every expectation to reach Game 5 of the WNBA semifinals. Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell stepped up for Stephanie White’s team, and the players on seven-day contracts (later confirmed for the rest of the season) were instrumental in that special run.

Adding Clark in the mix again will put the pressure back on the Indiana Fever. Former NBA star Jeff Teague talks about the problems the Indiana franchise could have in 2026 and said,” Are you shuffling the deck? Or you-I’m saying like if it’s a down season next year, I mean, obviously you’re building around Caitlin. She is the face of the W. She the biggest, you know what I mean? But you got to bring back Odyssey Sims. If you don’t bring her back, it look crazy.”

While the Fever’s aim was to win the championship with Clark in the lineup, her absence proved to be the significant difference maker in games. The Indiana Fever recognized the challenge in the 2025 season and will be better prepared for the upcoming season now that a blueprint is available in front of them.