Colin Cowherd has sparked conversation by asserting that the recent controversy between Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark is actually beneficial for the WNBA. During a game last Sunday, Reese committed a flagrant foul on Clark in the third quarter, a move that has fueled ongoing media discourse despite both players downplaying the incident as merely a “basketball play.”
Cowherd, speaking on his show “The Herd,” emphasized that the media’s reaction was predictable but ultimately advantageous for women’s basketball. “She’s a very good basketball player,” Cowherd said of Clark. “She’s getting better… She’s fantastic. She sees the floor. She’s a brilliant passer. It’s all working out; but this is predictable that the media doesn’t quite know what to do with it, yet the women — Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark — do.”
Cowherd went on to assert that such incidents, far from being detrimental, actually serve to enhance the visibility and intensity of women’s basketball. He compared the situation to his longstanding defense of NBA player Draymond Green, known for his aggressive play. “These flagrant fouls are a win. I defended Draymond Green forever, so I’m gonna be outraged by this? It’s a flagrant foul. She got up and played.”
Furthermore, Cowherd argued that those expressing outrage over the incident are likely new to the WNBA and unfamiliar with its physical nature. He believes that the heightened physicality and competitive spirit displayed by players like Reese and Clark can draw more attention to the league, fostering a greater appreciation for the skill and intensity of women’s basketball.
This incident highlights the growing pains and evolution of the WNBA as it gains more mainstream attention. Controversies, such as the one between Reese and Clark, play a role in the sport’s development by creating narratives that engage fans and generate discussion. The WNBA, like any professional league, thrives on rivalries and dramatic moments that keep audiences invested.
In conclusion, Cowherd’s take suggests that the flagrant foul and the ensuing media uproar are ultimately positive for the WNBA. They showcase the passion and competitiveness of the league’s players, potentially attracting new fans and increasing the league’s visibility. As the WNBA continues to grow, incidents like these will likely become part of the narrative that fuels its rise in popularity.