Imagine waking up one morning and finding yourself transported from a Motel 6 to the Four Seasons—not because of luck, but thanks to the arrival of one extraordinary teammate. Now imagine turning around and complaining about the very person who made that upgrade possible. That’s exactly how Fox Sports’ Colin Cowherd describes the current atmosphere in the WNBA, as some of the league’s veteran stars react to the meteoric rise of rookie sensation Caitlin Clark.

Clark, whose arrival in the WNBA has generated unprecedented attention, revenue, and fan engagement, is not only transforming the league’s business landscape but also exposing deep-seated tensions among her peers. According to Cowherd, the backlash against Clark isn’t just misguided—it’s self-sabotage. And the recent All-Star voting results, he argues, reveal just how deep the resentment runs.

Caitlin Clark: The WNBA’s Game-Changer

When Caitlin Clark was drafted first overall by the Indiana Fever, expectations were high. But few could have predicted the seismic impact she would have on the league in just her rookie season. Clark’s electrifying play, record-breaking college career, and magnetic personality have made her a household name—drawing millions of new fans, driving up TV ratings, and selling out arenas across the country.

Sponsors have taken notice, too. Clark’s endorsement deals with Nike and other major brands have brought a level of commercial interest to the WNBA that rivals even some NBA stars. Merchandise featuring her name and likeness flies off the shelves, and her games routinely break viewership records.

In short, Clark has elevated the WNBA from niche to mainstream, turning what Cowherd calls “Motel 6 money” into “Four Seasons luxury” almost overnight.

The Backlash: Jealousy or Justified Critique?

Yet, instead of universal celebration, Clark’s success has sparked a wave of criticism from some veteran players and league insiders. Detractors have accused her of receiving preferential treatment from referees, the media, and league officials. Others have questioned her toughness, leadership, and even her right to be the face of the league so soon after turning pro.

Cowherd sees these critiques for what they are: jealousy, plain and simple. “You don’t go from Motel 6 to the Four Seasons overnight and then complain about the person who got you there,” he said on his show. “Caitlin Clark is the rising tide that lifts all boats. And yet, some of her peers are too busy poking holes in the boat to realize they’re sinking their own future.”

All-Star Snub: A Symptom of Something Deeper

The simmering resentment reached a boiling point during the recent WNBA All-Star voting. Despite leading the league in fan votes by a wide margin, Clark was left off the starting lineup—an omission that stunned fans and analysts alike. Cowherd points to this as evidence of a deeper problem: a league culture that struggles to embrace its own stars, especially when they threaten the established hierarchy.

“Let’s be honest,” Cowherd said. “If you have a player who’s single-handedly doubling your ratings, selling out your arenas, and putting money in everyone’s pockets, you put her front and center. You don’t freeze her out because you’re worried about egos.”

The numbers back him up. Since Clark’s arrival, the WNBA has seen double-digit percentage increases in attendance, merchandise sales, and national TV ratings. Social media engagement has exploded, with Clark’s highlights routinely going viral and drawing millions of new eyes to the league.

“Biting the Hand That Feeds You”

Cowherd didn’t mince words when describing the current dynamic. “This is classic biting the hand that feeds you,” he said. “Caitlin Clark is not just good for herself—she’s good for the league, for every player, for every coach, for every sponsor. And yet, instead of gratitude, she’s getting grief.”

He compared the situation to other sports leagues, noting that when transcendent talents like LeBron James or Patrick Mahomes enter the scene, their peers recognize the benefits that come with increased exposure and revenue. “You don’t see NFL players complaining that Mahomes is on every commercial. They know more eyeballs means more money for everyone.”

A League at a Crossroads

The backlash against Clark, Cowherd argues, is more than just a petty feud—it’s a test of the WNBA’s maturity and vision for the future. Will the league embrace its new superstar and ride the wave of momentum she’s created? Or will it allow jealousy and infighting to undermine the progress that Clark has sparked?

For Cowherd, the answer is clear: “The WNBA has a golden opportunity right now. Caitlin Clark is a once-in-a-generation talent who can take this league to places it’s never been. But only if everyone gets on board. If you’re still complaining about her, you’re missing the big picture—and you’re hurting yourself in the process.”

The Path Forward: Gratitude Over Grievance

As the WNBA heads into the second half of the season, the spotlight on Clark—and the league’s response to her—will only intensify. Cowherd’s advice to players and fans alike is simple: embrace the change, show gratitude, and recognize the unique moment the league is experiencing.

“Every league dreams of having a Caitlin Clark,” he said. “Most never get one. The WNBA has her. Don’t blow it.”

A Lesson Beyond Basketball

The Caitlin Clark saga is about more than just basketball. It’s a lesson in gratitude, teamwork, and the importance of recognizing opportunity when it knocks. As Cowherd so eloquently put it, you don’t complain about the person who upgrades your hotel—you thank them, learn from them, and make the most of the new possibilities they bring.

For the WNBA, the choice is clear: celebrate Clark, capitalize on her impact, and build a brighter future for everyone. Anything less is not just ungrateful—it’s self-defeating. And in a league that’s finally stepping into the spotlight, there’s no room for that kind of darkness.