Legendary sports radio host Mike Francesa admittedly has not followed much of the WNBA on a regular basis. However, this past weekend, he said it captured his attention. While watching Caitlin Clark’s return for the Indiana Fever on Saturday, Francesa was caught by the majesty of Clark’s game.
During Monday’s episode of The Mike Francesa Podcast, he compared the style of game Clark presented to “Pistol” Pete Maravich, saying that Clark is the “best show in basketball.”
“It’s a show. I almost came out of my chair watching. This is unbelievable, I loved it,” said Francesa. “I’ve never watched the WNBA game in my life. I would pay to see her play. I would travel to see her play. That’s how exciting she is. She’s thrilling. Nothing short of it, she’s got a charisma on the court that is Maravich-like.”
Moreover, recognizing the stature that Clark has built with her play in the league, Francesa referenced the jealousy that Maravich faced in his playing days and compared it to the current feelings expressed by some WNBA players about Clark. He says that players who may feel jealous of Clark’s quick elevation in the league should step back and appreciate her for what she has brought to the WNBA.
“I understand she’s facing [some] jealousy, but these players in this league have to understand she is raising all boats,” said Francesa. “She’s magic, she’s charisma, she’s box office. If you can do it as a player, God bless you. If you can draw eyeballs to the set. God bless you. If you can’t just applaud that she can do it and reap the benefits.”
Furthermore, Francesa admitted to never watching a WNBA game before this past weekend, even saying he wouldn’t go to a WNBA game if he was paid to do so. However, following his first time watching Clark in the league, he has changed his tune on her importance to the success of the WNBA.
“She brings an incredible white-hot spotlight to the league,” noted Francesa. “She already has, but she is going to lift that league incredibly.”
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
