Temi Fagbenle has shared her unique perspective as a WNBA player and a teammate of Caitlin Clark. In a recent thread, she defended Clark while addressing key issues in women’s basketball. Here’s what Temi had to say:
Caitlin Clark can acknowledge white privilege without hating herself or diminishing her own achievements. She can celebrate the pioneers of the sport while recognizing the racial disparities that still exist. Since Clark entered the scene, the WNBA has experienced unprecedented growth—attendance has skyrocketed, TV ratings are breaking records, and corporate sponsorships are increasing. These are significant changes for a league that lost $3 billion over the past 20 years.
Temi didn’t hold back in her response. She criticized those who focus on race or privilege as reasons for Clark’s success, arguing instead that Clark’s impact benefits the entire league. From securing charter flights to drawing larger audiences, Temi emphasized that Clark has brought much-needed attention to women’s basketball. This isn’t about taking credit away from others—it’s about progress.
Fagbenle also tackled the backlash Clark faced after her Time Magazine interview, where she discussed her white privilege and honored Black players who built the league. Some viewed Clark’s comments as pandering, but Temi saw them as sincere and impactful. Clark’s actions have shone a spotlight on diversity within the sport and elevated the voices of her Black peers, which Temi believes is an essential step for growth.
Addressing the bigger picture, Temi encouraged critics to focus on the systemic issues that have held back women’s basketball for decades—poor travel conditions, lack of media coverage, and minimal investment. Instead of resenting someone who is driving change, the community should come together to capitalize on this momentum.
Temi highlighted how Clark’s presence is opening doors internationally. Young players worldwide are tuning in, discovering not just Clark but also stars like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, and learning about the league’s pioneers. The increased attention means more opportunities for players globally and could lead to higher salaries, better facilities, and expanded grassroots programs.
Fagbenle stressed that success in women’s basketball isn’t a zero-sum game. Clark’s rise doesn’t diminish the contributions of other players; it elevates them. Temi’s message wasn’t just about defending Clark—it was about pushing the entire WNBA forward. She called for unity, emphasizing that historic movements for equality succeed when allies work together.
As Temi put it, this moment isn’t just about one player or one season—it’s about the future of women’s basketball. She urged the community to focus on building a legacy that future generations will thank them for. Progress doesn’t always come in the form we expect, but when it benefits everyone, it’s worth celebrating.
In closing, Temi reminded everyone that growth requires collaboration. Women’s basketball finally has the spotlight, and the choice is clear: fight about credit or work together to ensure this moment becomes a movement. Her words weren’t just a defense of Clark—they were a rallying cry for the entire WNBA to embrace this opportunity for change.
